Top Ten Tips for Visiting Organ Pipe

Visit during early spring, after the winter rains, to see the monument at its greenest!

NPS Photo/Craig Stocks

1. Plan for the temps! Summer temperatures can warm up to the 100’s, while winter lows can reach the 30’s and 40’s. Pack plenty of water and salty snacks to prevent dehydration and heat related illness. Stay safe by avoiding strenuous activity during midday and afternoon heat. Wear sun protective clothing and dress in layers.
2. Plan out the activities you want to do ahead of time and whether they suit your schedule, ability, and vehicle. For example, keep in mind that our two scenic drives take 2-3 hours and 5-6 hour, and are both gravel/dirt roads with a 25 ft vehicle length limit. Call ahead to check road conditions.
3. Budget your time. Organ Pipe is at least a 2 hour drive from Phoenix or Tucson, and our visitor center is located another 30 minutes away from our northern entrance. Start your day trips early to have enough time to enjoy the park, or even better yet, spend a couple days in the park!
4. So where are the Organ Pipes? Some of the larger stands of organ pipe cacti are found along the Ajo Mountain Scenic Drive, Alamo Canyon, around Twin Peaks Campground, and Senita Basin.
5. Border Safety. Organ Pipe is a safe place to visit but do be aware that cross-border activities do occur. Read about how you can enjoy a safe visit to our monument.
6. Stay up to date on park closures and restricted access times by checking our Alerts or visiting Facebook.
7. Make the most of your visit with our self-guided programs. Learn about our Hike for Health, Junior Ranger and Desert Ranger Programs at the visitor center or online.
8. Know the rules. From fire restrictions to ATV use, know what is and isn’t allowed at Organ Pipe before you visit. 95% of our park is designated wilderness. Help us preserve it by practicing Leave No Trace and packing out everything you bring with you.
9. Ruffing it? Dogs and other pets are only allowed on three, short trails at Organ Pipe, even when carried. Pets should always be on a leash and under supervision.
10. Camping in Organ Pipe is only allowed in designated campsites. Hike-in backcountry camping allowed with a zoned permit. Call ahead to check general availability and depending on time of year, reservations may be required. If there are no sites available, the nearest camping areas and accommodations are at least half an hour away.