Chiricahua Becomes America’s 64th National Park

Southeastern Arizona has a new national park. On October 20, President Trump signed the Chiricahua National Park Act, which converts Chiricahua National Monument into Chiricahua National Park. It is the 64th national park in the country, the first new one in six years, and Arizona’s fourth. Rep. Juan Ciscomani sponsored the bill, which passed Congress with bipartisan support in late September.

Known as the “Wonderland of Rocks,” the park sits in the Chiricahua Mountains about 36 miles south of Willcox, roughly 120 miles east of Tucson. The monument drew about 70,000 visitors last year, and officials expect the new designation to bring more. Plans include new signs with the park’s name, new water systems and other maintenance.

For travelers exploring our region, it’s a worthwhile stop on a loop through Cochise, Graham and Greenlee counties.

Source: KOLD News, October 21, 2026.