A visit to Chiricahua National Monument offers a range of activities and attractions. There is something for everyone. The park's mild climate is suitable for a wide variety of outdoor activities throughout most of the year: day hiking, camping, picnicking, historic district tours, wildlife viewing, birding, nature photography, star gazing, and horseback riding (own stock).
Pets are permitted in specific areas at Chiricahua National Monument. Dogs must be on a leash at all times and not left alone. You may only walk your dog on the lower canyon trails between the campground, visitor center, and entrance station on the Silver Spur Trail, Faraway Ranch Trail, and the campground. You may not bring your pets on any of the other park trails. This is for the safety of your dog and protection of the wildlife.
Bonita Canyon Campground is open year-round. The sites are available by online reservations through www.recreation.gov by searching Chiricahua National Monument. Busiest months are March and April when the campground is typically full every night.
We also offer programs and talks in the beautiful Bonita Canyon Campground. Campground programs usually start mid-March, weather permitting.
Visit the many features within the historic district to discover the human activity in the Chiricahua Mountains. Tours of Faraway Ranch are year round, subject to change without notice. Check at the visitor center for up to date information.
Picnicking
The Bonita Creek and Faraway picnic areas have tables, trashcans, and restrooms. Massai Point, Echo Canyon, and Sugarloaf areas have tables and restrooms. Water is available at Faraway Ranch and the visitor center. Picnicking in Bonita Canyon campground is prohibited.
Bonita Canyon Scenic Drive
Making a gradual climb through oak, cypress, and pine forests, this 8-mile paved drive winds to Massai Point, a perfect place for a picnic. The overlook has a 360-degree view of Rhyolite Canyon, adjacent valleys, and surrounding mountain peaks. Massai Nature Trail is a .5 mile loop trail which allows you to discover the geologic story of the park. A stop at the exhibit building along the nature trail provides additional park information. The drive provides access to Bonita Canyon Campground, multiple pullouts to enjoy the scenery, and trailheads to the 17 miles of day-use hiking trails. The vehicle length limit past the visitor center is 24 feet.
Miles of trails are open to horses and permitted stock (burros, mules, hoofed mammals). Find out more information on where to park horse trailers, group size limits, and trail etiquette guidelines.
