Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument ⓘ

Citing authority granted to him by the Antiquities Act of 1906, President Franklin D. Roosevelt created Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument on April 13, 1937. It was created as a way to preserve a representative area of the Sonoran Desert. The new monument was part of a movement by the National Park Service to protect not just scenic wonders but also the ecological wonders of the country.

National Parks and National Monuments are both administered by the National Park Service, and are identical in their function and purpose. Both are types of federally protected lands, and share the common goal of preserving and protecting significant natural and cultural resources.

The major difference between a national park and a national monument is the manner in which they are created. A national park is established through an Act of Congress, and the land may originate from a variety of sources, including public and private land. A national monument is established by presidential proclamation, and this land is to be taken only from existing public (federal) ownership .

Explore the subpages to learn some of the fascinating history that help tell the story of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.

1540 : Coronado Expedition enters the Sonoran Desert. Diaz Peak is named in honor of Melichior Diaz, a member of the expedition. Diaz is the first European to cross the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument region.

1698 : Father Eusebio Kino established a mission ranch in Sonoyta, leading to the first livestock grazing in Organ Pipe Cactus. Father Kino later established the trade route known as the Camino del Diablo.

1845-1846 : Mexican-American War. War ended with the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hildago, ceding to the US all of upper California and the territory north of the Gila River in Arizona. Organ Pipe was still part of Mexico.

1849 : 49ers seeking gold in California traveled through Organ Pipe using the Camino del Diablo, Growler Pass, and other undocumented areas.

1853 : Gasden Purchase. Land south of the Gila River is purchased from the Mexican government for $10 million. Land was purchased to build the Southern Pacific Railroad route to California. Land became part of Arizona and New Mexico, including what is now Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.

Late 1850s: At least 3 mining districts are established south of Ajo, AZ, within the present monument boundaries.

1887 : Jeff Milton lived at Quitobaquito Spring as the first U.S. Immigration Agent in the area.

1890s : Cipriano Ortega operated the Victoria Mine claim and worked it for silver. The mine was worked intermittently through the mid-1970s, operating under a special use permit from the National Park Service.

Early 1900 s: Border unfenced, unguarded and marked only by obelisk style monuments. First evidence of smuggling.

1907 : 60 feet of land immediately north of the international border is withdrawn from public domain for use by customs officers. (Later to become part of Lukeville, AZ).

1914 : Army under the command of General John J. Pershing camped in Alamo Canyon. Americans and Mexicans engage in mutual raiding.

1916 : New Cornelia Mining Company established at Ajo; major economic growth periods begin.

1919 : Robert Louis Gray purchased the Blankenship Ranch. Renamed Dos Lomitas. Cattle began to graze over what would become Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.

1935 : Robert Gray Sr. acquires water rights to Bates Well and Daniel's Well. Henry Gray moves to Bates Well.

1937 : Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is established on April 13th by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Much opposition from local ranchers and miners.

1939 : First custodian (superintendent), William R. Supernaugh, appointed. No other staff appointed until 1943.

1939 : Grazing rights granted to Tohono O'odham tribe to graze traditional lands below the Ajo Mountians. Early 1940s : Bobby Gray settles at Dowling Well. 1941 : Congress passed an "Act to allow mining within... the Monument" for the duration of World War II. Prospectors flock to the area. Act was repealed on September 28, 1976.

Early 1950s : Park Service Visitor Center constructed. Building is located about 1/4 mile south of the existing visitor center.

1950 : Ajo Chamber of Commerce began movement to change Organ Pipe's name to Arizona Desert National Park. Congress took no action.

1950: Old road into Ajo Mountains extended and improved to become the self-guided Ajo Mountain Drive.

1959 : Park rehabs Quitobaquito, deepens pond, razes buildings, improves general appearance.

1974-76 : Gray brothers die, ending the ranching era at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.

1990s : Illegal immigrant crossing dramatically increase, as does drug trafficking across monument lands.

2003 : November 22, by Congressional Act, Organ Pipe Cactus Visitor Center renamed in honor of Kris Eggle and rededicated in formal ceremony with NPS Director Fran Mainella in attendance.

2004 : Vehicle barrier construction begins across Monument's 33 miles of international boundary.

2008: Homeland Security pedestrian fence is constructed for 5 miles surrounding the Lukeville Port of Entry.

2011 : Ajo Border Patrol Station expanded. Over 500 Border Patrol agents stationed in Ajo.

When you look out at the vast Sonoran Desert wilderness, full of saguaro, organ pipe, and cholla cactus, you do not expect to see signs of cattle ranching. The land here is harsh, dry, and extreme. To a small group of ranchers, this land was paradise. Throughout the monument, you can see signs of these ranchers and their lifestyles. As you explore these old ranch sites, you cannot help but be impressed by the determination and perseverance of these men who worked this desert land.

The history of the earliest cattle ranching in Organ Pipe’s territory started when cattle were introduced by the Spanish, perhaps by Coronado or Padre Kino at his mission near Sonoyta. Cattle prospered on the mission farm,s and their ancestors provided stock for Indian herds in the area. The introduction of cattle, horses, and burros changed the face of this area forever. After the US/Mexico international boundary fence was established between Arizona and Mexico, cattle could no longer roam freely back and forth and the range became more restrictive.

American ranching in the monument region goes back to the early decades of the 1900s, when southern Arizona was the new (and last) frontier. Desert ranching is unique. The carrying capacity for the 500-square-mile monument is only one head of cattle per square mile. These cattle fed on a variety of desert food sources, from annual grasses to mesquite beans and even cholla joints. An old time rancher once said that here in the desert his cattle did not graze, they browsed.

In the region that became Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, there was one main ranching family, the Grays. The Grays moved to this region in 1919 with seven children, four daughters and three sons. Their main ranch house was the Dos Lomitas near the Mexican border. As time passed, the Grays began to expand their cattle operation. By the 1950s, they had established ranches all across the Organ Pipe territory, and acquired other nearby ranches. They grazed their cattle on both sides of the border with line camps at various wells scattered across the monument - Blankenship, Gachado, Alamo, Poso Nuevo, Bonita, and Bates - creating a ranching empire.

When the monument was established in 1937, great controversy surrounded the question of whether to continue to allow grazing permits, and what the carrying capacity was for the range. The Gray family originally received annual permits to graze 550, and a few years later 1,050 head of cattle. These grazing permits were canceled in the 1960s, and in the last roundup more than 1,700 cattle were counted. The final cattle were removed from Organ Pipe Cactus in 1978, effectively ending the cowboy era of the monument. The prolonged ranching period had a great effect on the desert ecosystem. Wild grasses were nearly eaten to extinction. Small cacti were trampled out of the ground. These effects can still be witnessed today, more than 45 years since the last roundup.

To the ranchers, this was a way of life. They would wake up before dawn, clean the corrals, and herd the cattle as many as 16 miles each day to the nearest water source. It was a tough, but necessary lifestyle.

Today if you explore the monument, many of the roads and trails you travel on are old ranching roads leading to isolated line camps or wells. Beyond this evidence of desert ranching, further evidence of cattle in the monument is seen in the many areas that are still recovering from overgrazing. While visiting these sites, you can almost be transported back to the cowboy days of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.

When you arrive in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, your first stop should be the Kris Eggle Visitor Center. Organ Pipe National Monument’s visitor center was re-designated by the United States Congress as the Kris Eggle Visitor Center on July 29, 2003.

Kristopher William Eggle was a law enforcement park ranger from Cadillac, Michigan. He was an Eagle Scout, a National Honor Society Student, and valedictorian of his graduating class at Cadillac High School in 1991. After high school, he attended the University of Michigan and earned a degree in wildlife biology. Kris approached his entire life with a kind of contagious enthusiasm that could only inspire everyone who knew him. He constantly gave of himself without ever asking for anything in return.

In 1995 Kris accepted a position with the National Park Service at Great Smoky Mountains National Park tracking wild boar and bears. He later served as an law enforcement ranger at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Canyonlands National Park before arriving at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument in 2000.

He was elected president of his class at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center where he graduated at the top of his class and received the Director's Award for outstanding achievement.

Kris took great pride in his daily work providing for visitor safety and protecting our nation's heritage. As a National Park Ranger, Kris enforced federal and state laws while at the same time performing as an emergency medical technician, wildland and structural firefighter, and search and rescue team member.

In the wake of 9/11, Kris protected his country by intercepting thousands of pounds of illegal drugs, and guarding a 30-mile stretch of the nation’s southern boundary.

Kris Eggle was shot and killed in the line of duty at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, on August 9, 2002 while pursuing members of a drug cartel who fled into the United States after committing a string of murders in Mexico.

On July 29, 2003, the United Sates Congress passed Public Law 108-64, officially designating the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument's visitor center as the Kris Eggle Visitor Center. A public dedication ceremony was held on November 2, 2003. A memorial to Ranger Eggle can be found in the front of the visitor center.

People and animals have a tendency to return to the same place over and over again, generation after generation. Quitobaquito Spring is no different. Some of the artifacts found in the area date back approximately 16,000 years, and Quitobaquito has been occupied ever since by many people and cultures. It is also the home of endangered species and is a place that remains a challenge to manage to preserve and protect the history and habitat that is unique to Quitobaquito.

The origin of the name "Quitobaquito" has been lost to history. It is thought to be a corruption of the Spanish and O'odham languages. Some possible meanings are small spring , watering place , a reference to the Mexican town of Quitovac , or look out (or get away) little cow.

The area around Quitobaquito is associated with a prehistoric trade route known as the Old Salt Trail. Ancient cultures used this route to obtain salt, obsidian, seashells, and other commodities from the salt beds of Sonora, Mexico.

The spring is also part of the historic homeland of American Indians. The Hia C-ed O'odham and the Tohono O'odham both lived at Quitobaquito. Today, the Tohono O'odham have a reservation just east of the Ajo Mountains, approximately 30 miles from Quitobaquito. Their ancestors lived and subsisted here for hundreds and even thousands of years.

In 1698, Father Eusebio Francisco Kino wrote about visiting the spring, which he named San Sergio. After arriving in Mexico in 1683, Father Kino established 24 missions in 24 years, the closest being in present-day Sonoyta, Mexico.

Quitobaquito has had many colorful residents. Andrew Dorsey arrived in the early 1860s, opened a store, dug the pond deeper and built an earthen dam to create a bigger water source. He also dug irrigation ditches to water his pomegranate and fig trees. Dorsey lived in the area until the 1890s. In 1887, a former Texas Ranger named Jefferson Davis Milton was hired to establish a United States customs and immigration station at Quitobaquito.

Milton mined for gold and silver in the area and established the Milton Mine that you can visit in the monument today. Around 1903, local rancher Thomas Childs Jr. arrived and rebuilt Dorsey's dam and irrigation ditches. Among other crops, he started to grow watermelons.

On April 13, 1937, President Franklin Roosevelt signed the proclamation creating Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. Around 1947, the pond at Quitobaquito was approximately 2 feet deep, and covered an area up to a half acre. More than 4,000 feet of irrigation ditches existed, providing water to at least 8 fig trees and 22 pomegranate trees.

On July 8, 1957, Jim Orosco sold all remaining private land at Quitobaquito to the National Park Service for $13,000. The Orosco family of Hia C-ed O'odham decent, is believed to be the longest-term resident family at Quitobaquito, living there from 1887 to 1957.

In 1961 the National Park Service removed all old structures from the site and drained and deepened the pond. A parking lot and trails were built to accommodate visitors. The area was fenced, and cattle guards were added to discourage livestock grazing.

Drought conditions from the mid-1990s to 2006 caused moderate fluctuations in the pond level. In 2007 it was determined that there was also large-scale leakage from the pond. Corrective actions were taken over the next few years including bulrush removal, partial pond and berm renovation. All of these actions were designed to protect and preserve the pond and the habitat of its inhabitants such as the endangered Quitobaquito pupfish.

The pond is also the home of the Quitobaquito spring snail, the Sonoyta mud turtle and the desert caper plant. This is the only spot in the United States where these species can be found naturally occurring. The desert caper supports the caper butterfly ( ascia Howarthi ) that is only found coexisting with the plant. The Quitobaquito spring snails are so small that they are hard to find. You can sometimes spot the snail, about the size of a grain of black pepper, in the spring-fed streams serving the pond. Quitobaquito is also the only place where the Sonoyta mud turtle is found in the United States and has been deemed a candidate for protection under the Endangered Species Act.

Many mountain peaks in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument are named for people who impacted the area's history in some way. From an e ntrepreneur to explorers, park rangers to a politician - the maps below shows Organ Pipe Cactus and the peaks named for its prominent people.

Díaz Peak & Díaz Spire Named for Captain Melchior Díaz (Died: C.E. 1541) Spanish Conquistador & Explorer

Diaz Peak and Diaz Spire are both remnants of a long-ago volcano located south of the Ajo Mountain Range, and are both named for the first European to venture here. As a key member of the Coronado Expedition of C.E. 1539-1542, Captain Melchior Díaz scouted over 3,500 miles in search of information, supplies, as well as fabled cities of gold. As the first Spaniard through the area, the information he gathered and recorded on the native peoples, their homes, tools, and the many natural resources offer modern scholars a glimpse into the area's ways of life prior to European contact.

Kino Peak Named for Father Eusebio Francisco Kino (C.E. 1645 –C.E. 1711) Italian Missionary & Explorer

In the northwest corner of the monument runs the Bates Mountain Range where the volcanic rock of Kino Peak towers above the desert. It is named for an Italian Jesuit who documented and influenced the American Indians who still call these lands home. Father Eusebio Francisco Kino was a missionary, explorer, geographer, and cosmographer, who authored published works on astronomy, cartography, and religion. During his career, he helped establish more than 2 dozen missions and settlements throughout Arizona, New Mexico, and the Mexican state of Sonora.

North of the Ajo Mountains stand a box-shaped monolith made of layers of volcanic rock called Montezuma's Head. Montezuma is the name western O'odham gave to the ancient O'oodham deity, I'itoi. The area is held as sacred and the Tohono O'odham and Hia-Ced O'odham make personal and family pilgrimages to the site, which was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1994. Formally named I'itoi Mo'o - Montezuma's Head and 'Oks Daha - Old Woman Sitting, many stories are connected to the site. One story states that the people avoided the sacred site after sunset on pain of turning to stone. One day, a tired old woman sat down to rest and as the sun set she- and the basket she carried turned to stone and are there today. The smaller rock block just north of the main peak [Montezuma's Head] is said to be the woman's basket.

Pinkley Peak Named for Frank "Boss" Pinkley (C.E. 1881- C.E. 1940) Archaeologist, Park Ranger, & NPS Regional Superintendent

The highest peak in the Puerto Blanco Mountains is formed of rhyolite and named for National Park Service Ranger Frank Pinkley. As the superintendent of the Southwestern National Monuments, Pinkley administered 27 national monuments in four states, and was excitedly planning the development of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument at the time of his death in 1940. "The Boss," as Pinkley was affectionately known, left an extraordinary legacy. Pinkley wrote monthly essays and articles to his staff, which were compiled into the collection, Ruminations from The Boss. The interesting, often humorous essays written by Pinkley revealed his uncanny ability to explain, instruct, and entice his fellow Park Rangers in a fatherly way.

Tillotson Peak Named for M. R. Tillotson (C.E. 1886–C.E. 1955) Engineer & National Park Service Regional Director

Made of volcanic ash called tuff, and easily viewable from both Arizona Highway 85 and the Ajo Mountain Drive, this peak features a curved fault plane that contributes to the tilt of the exposed strata. This popular peak was named for the NPS Regional Director M.R. (Minor Raymond) Tillotson. More famous for his work in Grand Canyon National Park, Tillotson became the regional director overseeing many southwest parks, including Organ Pipe Cactus, in 1940. Tillotson's work with the National Park Service from 1920-1955 is documented by the numerous manuscripts prepared by Tillotson on park service history including valuable photographs taken by Tillotson of park rangers, visitors, airplanes, social gatherings, and award presentations.

Twin Peaks - Levy Named for Manuel "Mikul" G. Levy (C.E.1859 - C.E. 1942) Entrepreneur & Prospector & Postmaster

Formed of volcanic rock, Levy Peak is the lower, eastern peak of Twin Peaks named for local figure M.G. Levy. Born in Texas, Levy studied mining at Heidelberg University in Germany before founding the Levy Mining, Mercantile & Contracting Company in 1912. Levy owned the rights to Organ Pipe Cactus' Victoria Mine as well as a series of retail stores that catered to local miners, ranchers and homesteaders. One of his many stores was located at Quitobaquito Springs.

Twin Peaks - Gadsden Peak Named for James Gadsden (C.E. 1788 - C.E. 1858) American Diplomat, Soldier, & Businessman

Formed of volcanic rock, the taller, western point of Twin Peaks is Gadsden Peak named for James Gadsden, an American minister to Mexico. Gadsden negotiated the sale of lands from Mexico to the United States in 1853. For $10 million, the Gadsden Purchase added roughly 30,000 square miles to the United States, moving the international border from the Gila River to the southern boundary of what is now Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.

The List of Classified Structures (LCS) is an evaluated inventory of all historic and prehistoric structures that have historical, architectural, and/or engineering significance within parks of the National Park System. The list is evaluated or "classified" by the National Register of Historic Places criteria/ Structures are constructed features that serve some form of human activity and are generally immovable. They include buildings and monuments, dams, mill races and canals, nautical vessels, bridges, tunnels and roads, fences, temple mounds and kivas, ruins of all structural types that still have integrity as structures, and outdoor sculpture.

The List of Classified Structures for Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument can be explored by searching through the LCS database. More >

As a whole, the National Park Service preserves more than 27,000 structures and 76,000 archeological sites across the nation, and supports preservation efforts in local communities. More >

In what is now Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, archaeological evidence places human beings in this area approximately 16,000 years ago. These people left behind projectile points, seashells, pottery, and rock art. The paths they followed on foot are still carved onto the desert floor. Over the millennia, people moved through here while following impressed trade routes, hunting and gathering, and settling for short periods of time. Once agriculture was introduced in the southwest, people began to establish more permanent settlements and eventually larger villages.

Many archaeological sites can be found within Organ Pipe Cactus. The Hohokam people's culture existed in this area from the first years Common Era (CE). through CE 1450. Considered the greatest of the ancient southwest cultures, the Hohokam achieved remarkable successes during their time, and are today most noted for the creation of extensive irrigation canals fed by the Salt and Gila rivers. Several miles of irrigation canals can still be seen on the desert floor at Organ Pipe Cactus. These waterways supported fields of corn, beans, squash, tobacco, and cotton.

Barely 90 years after the Hohokam culture dispersed across the landscape, the first Europeans ventured into the Sonoran Desert, and named the area "New Spain." These Spanish conquerors were looking for wealth that they could acquire from others. They used the unique landmarks shown to them by local American Indian guides, as well as the sun, moon, and stars to accurately map and document their discoveries.

Nearly 150 years after the first Spaniards confirmed the lack of large and wealthy civilizations, missionaries combed the area to meet and convert people who lived here. With the spread of Christianity, local American Indian cultures changed to use the European methods of farming and ranching taught by the missionaries. Not long after the area was purchased from Mexico by the United States in 1853, both ranching and mining dominated as the major occupations for American Indians, Mexicans, and European settlers lifestyles, which lasted into the 20th Century, and overlapped with the creation of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument in 1937.

The early national monument faced many challenges, especially with local miners and ranching families. Mineral mining began in the late 19 th Century and was allowed to continue up to 1976. By hiking in the monument you can see the mining history in old prospecting holes, tailings, and buildings.

Modern ranching in the monument began at the beginning of the 20 th Century and also continued through the 1970s.The effects of overgrazing are still seen today. You can visit old ranching sites at Alamo Canyon, Bates Well, and other wells scattered across the monument.

In 1976, The United Nations designated Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument as an International Biosphere Reserve, reconfirming its status as an outstanding example of the Sonoran Desert. Then in 1977, Congress declared 95% of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument as a wilderness area.

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument sits along a primary migratory flyway and because of this, birding is a popular and fantastic recreational opportunity! More than 270 bird species have been recorded in the monument. The vast majority visit the Organ Pipe Cactus only while migrating, taking advantage of the desert’s seasonal flowers, fruits, and warm winters. There are 36 species of resident birds that can be found throughout Organ Pipe Cactus, from the oasis at Quitobaquito to the cliffs in Arch Canyon. Visit our Birding page to learn more about birding in the monument or use the bird checklist to see the known species of birds that are residents of the monument. Visit the Birding for Beginners page to learn tips and tricks for all levels of birding!

The call of the cactus wren has long symbolized the desert landscape. Cactus wrens make their way through the monument by flitting thorugh creosote scrub and cactus stands, eating fruit, insects, and other small critters. Nests are easy to spot and often at eye level in the branches of chain-fruit cholla, where they are protected by the spiny cactus.

These large wrens are a little smaller than a robin. Cactus wrens sport a distinct white "eyebrow", and a black patch on the throat. The body plumage is a buff or cinnamon brown with black and white barring. To locate a cactus wren, listen for the sound of an old car trying, and failing, to start. These spunky birds are very common and can often be seen in parking lots picking insects off the front of cars.

Gambel's quail are related to chickens, and they behave similarly, too! Cautiously working their way over the landscape, Gambel's quail forage for seeds and insects on the ground. These very common birds scurry away to maintain distance from predators or birdwatchers, only flying in short, often noisy bursts. Spotting a a group or "covey" of Gambel’s quail is almost a sure bet when strolling Twin Peaks Campground around sunrise or sunset.

To find Gambel's quail, listen for the conversational “boop-boop? Boop boop-boop boop?” or an occasional “waaa!”. Look out for gray or dusty-brown birds. Males have a chestnut-colored cap and sides, and a dark face with white marks. Both males and females have sandy-colored bellies, and bobbing, tear-drop shaped head feathers, though the males is usually fuller.

The round holes seen in many saguaros may have been originally made by Gila woodpeckers or flickers but are often adopted by elf owls once once the architect leaves. This tiny owl is only 4.5-5.5 inches long (11.5-14 cm)and eats mostly insects and arachnids, though it may occasionally take a small lizard. These owls form groups during the breeding season and harrass or "mob" predators like snakes or foxes that get too close to nests.

The world's tiniest raptor is rarely seen, as it is only around the monument in the summer, and only active at night. The easiest way to observe one is by listening for their raspy "purp purp-purp-purp-purp purp" calls. If you happen to see one of these elusive owls, you will notice a tiny gray-brown body, distinct white eyebrow, large yellow eyes, maybe peering out from a cactus.

Roadrunners are fierce hunters of lizards, snakes, insects, small mammals, and even other birds. When hunting, they will grab their target, often by the tail, and thrash their prey against the ground to subdue it. They are agile runners and typically only fly short distances to escape predators or access a nest. This bird is an important figure in many Native American and Mexican stories.

From the highest arch to the deepest arroyo, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument hosts an incredible array of natural features. Though the modern ecosystems in this area are only about 10,000 years young, the underlying Earth has undergone millions of years of shaping. Ancient volcanoes and winding rivers helped form the landscape, and with a change in climate, a diverse bouquet of life flourished. Today, the Sonoran Desert is believed to have the greatest biodiversity of any desert.

Explore below to learn more about geology in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument and across the United States.

Geodiversity refers to the full variety of natural geologic (rocks, minerals, sediments, fossils, landforms, etc.) and soil resources and processes that occur in the park.

The Sonoran Desert Network Inventory & Monitoring Network consists of 10 park units in central and southern Arizona and one park unit in southwestern New Mexico. Explore their individual geologic history in the Sonoran Desert.

Geology is the scientific discipline dedicated to understanding the physical features and processes of Earth, as well as the history of the planet and its inhabitants since its origin. A basic understanding of the fundamentals of geology can enhance your appreciation of geoheritage sites and scenic vistas. Learn about rocks and minerals, our geologic timeline, plate techtonics, and more!

explore the world's most magnificent rock collection—your National Parks. The science of geology will help you to better understand park scenery and Earth systems. The National Park Service uses science-based conservation methods to ensure that geologic features and systems are protected and remain as a legacy for future generations.

Roadrunners are most often spotted... Running on the road! These crow-sized birds crouch low to the ground when running, with their long tail straight behind them for balance. Their call is a repeating low coo or raspy squeak. The roadrunner's brown feathers are irridescent when the light hits them just right. They have a patch of bare skin behind their eye that is sometimes bright blue and red, and they sport an expressive head crest.

Several species of hummingbird can be found in the national monument. Many plants, such as ocotillo, chuparosa, and California fuchsia, display the tubular red flower form that hummingbirds prefer. Hummingbirds zip through the air, hovering to feed on the nectar of flowers, and occasionally perch to preen their feathers. During the breeding season, males perform spectacular aerial dives to woo females.

Males and female Costa's hummingbirds are bright green, with short tails and slender wings. The bill is fairly heavy and dark. The patch of vibrant feathers or "gorget" that is most noticable on the males is deeply lobed, stretching behind the eyes and sometimes sticking out to the sides from the throat. The gorget is a brilliant violet when the light hits it just right, and almost black in dull light.

Cardinals often frequent shady mesquite groves in washes and canyons, and are commonly sighted near the pupfish pond behind the Kris Eggle Visitor Center. These bright singbirds are a common yard bird that is easy to see in many areas of eastern to southern North America

Male cardinals are easily recognized by their bright red color, crest, and striking black mask. Females are a more subtle mix of brown and red and may be mistaken for a similar resident, the pyrrhuloxia. The easiest way to tell a female cardinal and a pyrrhuloxia apart is by the beak; Pyrrhuloxias have a round, yellow bill, while the cardinal posesses a very pointy orange bill. The northern cardinal's song is variable and may contain a steady, repeating "pewr pewr pewr", similar to a car alarm.

The main food source of the phainopepla is mistletoe and these birds are largely responsible for the spread of this parasitic plant. These birds are most often spotted perched on the upper branches of mistletoe-infested trees. Phainopeplas have a digestive tract specialized for eating mistletoe berries. The berries are not very nutritious, so the phainopepla constantly eats, and passes seeds onto other trees, creating another food source for the future.

The phainopepla may look like a jet-black cardinal, but these small berry-eaters are not related to the chunky cardinal. Males are black and females are medium gray, both with large, white wing patches that are only visible in flight. Both sexes have striking red eyes and shiny plumage. Phainopepla are known to mimic the sounds of many other birds, but may also give a "wuURP" call.

This woodpecker is the cause of many of the nest holes seen in saguaro cacti. During the nesting season, thes birds will peck away the skin and inner flesh of a saguaro and leave the hole until the cactus scabs over. The woodpecker will return to its hollow shelter to nest. Gila woodpeckers don't reuse their holes, so while they create new ones each season, other animals will move into vacant hollows.

Similar in appearance to the flickers that share part of its range, the Gila woodpecker can be distinguished by the lack of a black bib and the presence a red mark on the crown instead of cheeks. Gila woodpeckers sound a bit like rattling squeaky toys, or can give raspy, evenly spaced squeaks.

Ravens are highly intelligent birds, known to use tools and adjust behavior to secure snacks. Ravens are also notorious thieves of shiny objects and food, which is a good reason to keep your campsite clean. These large black birds are often mistaken for crows where their ranges overlap, though ravens are the only crow-like birds (corvids) found at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.

You will likely first notice a raven if it flies near you. These birds are quite large (up to twice the size of a crow), with a very large beak and a diamond-shaped tail. Ravens make sounds that are decidedly un-birdlike. They may croak like a toad, emit a metallic “ploink!”, a clicking, wooden “conk”, or mimic whatever odd sound suits their fancy. When relaxing, they may puff up their beard-like throat feathers to help cool off.

Curve-billed thrashers are common to open parking lots, and thorny scrub, hunting for insects and other small prey. They will fly to reliable water sources for hydration. Like the cactus wren, curve-billed thrashers often nest in cholla but tend to use twigs rather than grasses for the main structure.

The curve-billed thrasher's call is a loud "wheet-WHEET", while its songs are variable and melodious. This bird is about the size of a robin, with a long tail, and long, thick, down-curved bill. The bright orange-yellow eye stands out against the mottled gray body.

Use the NPSpecies box below to discover what other birds and wildlife are found at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. The checklist can be printed or kept as a PDF or Excel file to track what birds you encountered while at the monument.

Every campsite at Twin Peaks campground is surrounded by beautiful Sonoran Desert vegetation. NPS Photo/Cate Blanch

Each site at Twin Peaks Campground is surrounded by lush Sonoran Desert plants. NPS Photo/Cate Blanch Twin Peaks Campground Twin Peaks Campground is located just over one mile away from the Kris Eggle Visitor Center in the Sonoran Desert and each campsite is surrounded by beautiful desert plants. It has 34 tent-only sites and 174 sites for RVs. Several sites able to accommodate RVs up to 45 feet in length. Sites 1-112 permit the use of generators. Hookups for electricity, water or sewer are not available. Restrooms have running water and three have free solar-heated showers. A dump station with potable water is located past the last row of campsites towards the back of the campground.

Camping fees are $20.00 per night and holders of the Senior or Access Pass receive a 50% discount. Generator hours are 8:00 am to 10:00 am and 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Group Camping The four camping sites at Twin Peaks Campground will accommodate groups of 18 to 45 people. There is no electricity in the sites or RV hookups. Restrooms have running water and an electrical outlet for personal appliances only.

Camp beneath the mountains in a saguaro forest at Alamo Canyon Campground. NPS Photo/Cate Blanch Alamo Canyon Campground Alamo Canyon Campground is a primitive campground nestled near Alamo Canyon. It has 4 tent-only sites that are surrounded by a quiet desert landscape. There is a vault toilet available in the campground. Water is not available and no RVs or fires are permitted.

Organ Pipe Cactus' backcountry has many beautiful places to pick a spot and camp. NPS Photo/Craig Stocks Backcountry Camping Looking for a desert wilderness experience? Organ Pipe Cactus has plenty of wilderness to explore! Currently nine zones are open for backcountry camping . Permits are required and available at the Kris Eggle Visitor Center. Group size and zone capacity are limited.

Camp beneath the dark skies above while surrounded by beautiful desert plants at Twin Peaks Campground or Alamo Canyon Campground. They have different amenities and offer campers a choice between modern comforts and rustic wilderness. You may see the desert dark sky subtlety illuminated by countless stars or shadows that are awakened under a full moon's glow at either campground. Songs of coyotes or the hum of a breeze may lull you to sleep. Awaken with a blazing sunrise and hike one of the trails that begin at the campgrounds. Campsites at Twin Peaks Campground (including the group sites) and Alamo Canyon Campground are reserved through Recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777. Campsites may be reserved the same day and up to six months in advance. During the busy season (December-April) the campgrounds fill quickly; making reservations in advance is highly recommended. Backcountry camping permits must be made at the Kris Eggle Visitor Center. A $25.00 entrance fee (valid for seven consecutive days) per vehicle is required in addition to all camping reservations. Contact the Visitor Center at 520-387-6849 for any questions.

Twin Peaks Campground is located just over one mile away from the Kris Eggle Visitor Center in the Sonoran Desert and each campsite is surrounded by beautiful desert plants. It has 34 tent-only sites and 174 sites for RVs. Several sites able to accommodate RVs up to 45 feet in length. Sites 1-112 permit the use of generators. Hookups for electricity, water or sewer are not available. Restrooms have running water and three have free solar-heated showers. A dump station with potable water is located past the last row of campsites towards the back of the campground. Camping fees are $20.00 per night and holders of the Senior or Access Pass receive a 50% discount. Generator hours are 8:00 am to 10:00 am and 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

The four camping sites at Twin Peaks Campground will accommodate groups of 18 to 45 people. There is no electricity in the sites or RV hookups. Restrooms have running water and an electrical outlet for personal appliances only. Camping fees are $50.00 per site per night. No discounts may be applied.

Alamo Canyon Campground is a primitive campground nestled near Alamo Canyon. It has 4 tent-only sites that are surrounded by a quiet desert landscape. There is a vault toilet available in the campground. Water is not available and no RVs or fires are permitted. Camping reservations are $16.00 per night, and holders of the Senior or Access Pass receive a 50% discount on camping.

Looking for a desert wilderness experience? Organ Pipe Cactus has plenty of wilderness to explore! Currently nine zones are open for backcountry camping . Permits are required and available at the Kris Eggle Visitor Center. Group size and zone capacity are limited. Backcountry camping is $5.00 per zone (per group or individual) and is good for 7 nights.

Organ Pipe Cactus has something for everyone to enjoy: hikes meander through a verdant landscape; wildflower viewing in spring and cactus blooms in early summer; scenic drives through the Sonoran Desert; abundant opportunities for landscape and wildlife photography; camping under the dazzling stars above, and so much more! Many visitors come to Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument in winter and early spring to enjoy the Sonoran Desert's winter warmth, but each season offers a unique perspective and experience! Discover what's unique to each season and what the temperatures are like on the Weather page, or how to safely enjoy the Sonoran Desert on the Desert Safety page. Explore the Plan Your Visit page to help make trip planning a breeze by offering activity suggestions anywhere from 30 minutes to all day.

Organ Pipe Cactus offers many camping options including developed, primitive, and backcountry.

During the winter months, learn about Organ Pipe Cactus through our ranger-led programs.

Learn about the night sky in Organ Pipe Cactus and tips and trick on how to best enjoy it!

Hike five miles and earn a Hike for Health pin! NPS Photo/K. Ceballos Hiking in the "Green Desert" Hiking is a great way to exercise while exploring the surprisingly lush Sonoran Desert either by yourself or with your family. There are miles and miles of trails laced around Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. Some are easy, others are strenuous, most of them fall somewhere in between; Organ Pipe Cactus has trails for everyone. For backpackers or those seeking to adventure in an unexplored area , some of the best hiking is off the beaten trails and out in the canyons with only a map and compass to guide you. Ask a ranger at the Kris Eggle Visitor Center or learn more about the different trails below and see what's right for you.

Remember when hiking in the desert to always carry plenty of water and avoid hiking during the hottest parts of the day. Visit the Desert Safety page to learn more about how to best enjoy your time safely in the monument. Visit the Leave No Trace page to learn simple actions you can take to help preserve your public lands. Hike For Health Challenge Hike the Green Desert and earn a reward for being active in Organ Pipe Cactus! The "I Hike For Health" challenge will reward you for hitting the trails and achieving distance goals. By hiking 5 miles of trails, visitors are presented with a "Hike For Health" pin as a momento of their treks across Organ Pipe Cactus. Stop by the Kris Eggle Visitor Center to pick up the rules and receive your pin.

Hiking is a great way to exercise and stay in shape. For every mile you walk, you will burn around 70 calories (1/2 candy bar). Count your steps at home and challenge yourself to keep hiking in the over 400 units of the National Park System not only for your enjoyment but for your health too! Program Rules 1. In order to qualify for the award, you must hike a minimum of 5 miles (8 km). 2. Each individual seeking the reward must have a photograph of each person on each trail hiked. Present picture to a ranger at the Visitor Center for verification. 3. Use the hiking chart from the visitor center to track your progress. 4. Please only one reward per person. More Parks Offering "I Hike For Health" Pins In Arizona Chiricahua National Monument Coronado National Memorial Fort Bowie National Historic Site Tumacacori National Historical Park

Hiking Trails Organ Pipe Cactus has over 28 miles in established trails to explore! Several of these trails are pet-friendly or ADA accessible for everyone to enjoy! Ask a ranger at the visitor center for more information about the trails or call 520-387-6849. Visitor Center and Campground Trails Visitor Center Nature Trail 0.1 mile (0.2 km) roundtrip This ADA accessible, pet-friendly brick path begins at the Kris Eggle Visitor Center and loops to the parking lot. It features exhibits and a sitting area near a small pond with Quitobaquito pupfish. Campground Perimeter Trail 1 mile (1.6 km) roundtrip The Campground Perimeter Trail is located in the Twin Peaks Campground area. The western side of the trail is ADA accessible from the initial turn-in to the campground to the campground amphitheater, about a 1/4 mile. The rest of the trail is soft dirt and gravel that is relatively level, about 3/4 mile. This trail features beautiful desert plants, including many organ pipe cactus, and wonderful views to the south and east. Desert View Trail 1.2 miles (1.9 km) roundtrip This easy loop trail is ideal for sunrises and sunsets, featureing beautiful vistas and benches to sit and enjoy them along the trail. Exhibits that highlight the various plants in the area are found along the trail. Palo Verde Trail 2.6 mi (4.2 km) roundtrip While not officially ADA accessible, this pet-friendly dirt trail is relatively level for 1/2 mile if started from the visitor center trailhead and is an easy hike between the visitor center and Twin Peaks Campground. Ajo Mountain Drive Trails County Road 131 8 miles (12.9 km) one way This easy trail follows the old county road which later became AZ Hwy 85. This is a great trail to explore for visitors looking for solitude. A cristate saguaro may be found 1 mile north of the southern beginning of the trail. Arch Canyon 1.2 miles (1.9 km) roundtrip This easy trail steadily climbs into a lush canyon. The double arch may be seen at the beginning of the trail, and visitors may climb the unmaintained trail to hike to the arch and enjoy the oak-juniper environment of the sky island. Bull Pasture 3 miles (4.8 km) roundtrip This strenuous trail can be done as a loop with the Estes Canyon Trail. The beginning of the trail climbs 500 feet to exposed cliffs with spectacular views of Mexico and the monument providing a well-deserved reward. Estes Canyon 3.2 miles (5.1 km) roundtrip This moderate trail is great for birding and owling. Visitors hike through the relatively flat base of Estes Canyon, crossing several washes until the switchback climb to the Bull Pasture trail.

Join our park rangers as they reveal five of our favorite hikes in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.

Hiking is a great way to exercise while exploring the surprisingly lush Sonoran Desert either by yourself or with your family. There are miles and miles of trails laced around Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. Some are easy, others are strenuous, most of them fall somewhere in between; Organ Pipe Cactus has trails for everyone. For backpackers or those seeking to adventure in an unexplored area , some of the best hiking is off the beaten trails and out in the canyons with only a map and compass to guide you. Ask a ranger at the Kris Eggle Visitor Center or learn more about the different trails below and see what's right for you. Remember when hiking in the desert to always carry plenty of water and avoid hiking during the hottest parts of the day. Visit the Desert Safety page to learn more about how to best enjoy your time safely in the monument. Visit the Leave No Trace page to learn simple actions you can take to help preserve your public lands.

Hike the Green Desert and earn a reward for being active in Organ Pipe Cactus! The "I Hike For Health" challenge will reward you for hitting the trails and achieving distance goals. By hiking 5 miles of trails, visitors are presented with a "Hike For Health" pin as a momento of their treks across Organ Pipe Cactus. Stop by the Kris Eggle Visitor Center to pick up the rules and receive your pin. Hiking is a great way to exercise and stay in shape. For every mile you walk, you will burn around 70 calories (1/2 candy bar). Count your steps at home and challenge yourself to keep hiking in the over 400 units of the National Park System not only for your enjoyment but for your health too!

1.8 miles (2.9 km) roundtrip This scenic trail leads out of Alamo Canyon Campground and is great for birding and is an easy hike to the old ranching sites. Drop into the wash at the end for a "make your own adventure" experience!

3.1 miles (5 km) or 8.2 miles (13.2 km) roundtrip This trailhead begins at the end of Senita Basin Road. A picnic table and trashcans may be found at the trailhead. This trail may be hiked as a 3.1 mile loop into Senita Basin or combined into a larger 8.2 miles loop to the Milton and Baker mine areas.

1.6 mile (2.6 km) roundtrip This easy hike leads to a collection of tinajas in a wash. It may be combined to make a large 8.2 mile loop to Milton and Baker mines in the Senita Basin area.

5.2 miles (8.4 km) roundtrip Begins at the Red Tanks Tinaja trailhead and meanders in between beautiful desert mountains filled with organ pipe to Baker Mine, an old copper mine. This trail becomes rockier and climbs in elevation ~150 feet past Red Tanks Tinaja, so make sure to wear sturdy footwear.

8 miles (12.9 km) roundtrip The Lost Cabin Trail begins at Victoria Mine, 2.2 miles from the trailhead. From Victoria Mine, follow the road another 1.8 miles to Lost Cabin, an old mining site nestled at the base of two mountains. The rocks around the mine are incredibly colorful due to copper minerals.