Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Organ Pipe Cactus
Sights and sounds of this designated International Biosphere Reserve reveal a thriving community of plants and animals. Human stories echo throughout this desert preserve, chronicling thousands of years of desert living. A scenic drive, wilderness hike, or a night of camping will connect you to a living desert.

Discover Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Organ Pipe Cactus photo

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is a vibrant and rugged desert landscape where towering cacti, dramatic mountains, and endless blue skies create a breathtaking scene. Located along the US-Mexico border in southern Arizona, this UNESCO biosphere reserve protects the only place in the US where the rare organ pipe cactus grows naturally. Visitors can explore scenic drives, hike through saguaro-studded valleys, and experience the serene beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Whether you’re drawn by the striking scenery, rich biodiversity, or peaceful solitude, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is a true desert wonderland.

Bookstore with travel guides and souvenirs displayed on shelves.

Visit the WNP park store

The park store is located inside the Kris Eggle Visitor Center. Shop collectibles, apparel, books, trail guides, Junior Ranger gear, and more. 

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Explore Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Organ Pipe Cactus protects more than five hundred square miles of mountainous Sonoran Desert landscape and is held sacred by the Tohono O’odham, Hia-Ced O’odham, and other Indigenous peoples, who continue to nurture this special place. Part of the world’s most biodiverse desert, this International Biosphere Reserve is the only place in the United States where the organ pipe cactus grows wild. Camp, hike, learn, and explore. Plus, with a little additional preparation, this park can be a stop on your trip to Mexico—its sister park is El Pinacate y Gran Desierto de Altar, located just across the international border. 

Sunset over desert with scattered cacti, rays of light breaking through clouds.

Upcoming events

Jan 10 1:00 pm – 1:45 pm

An interpretive talk that changes daily. Subjects vary broadly, from ethnobotany, mining history, regional culture, and beyond.

Jan 10 3:00 pm – 3:30 pm

How big can organ pipe cactus grow? Can you eat their fruit? What role do they play in the Sonoran Desert ecosystem? Have you or someone you know every asked a question like this about the organ pipe cactus? If the answer is yes, then this is the...

Jan 10 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm

A relaxed sunset program, designed for all ages, exploring the plants, wildlife, and people of the Sonoran Desert. Talks change daily; inquire at the Kris Eggle Visitor Center for details.

Jan 11 10:00 am – 10:30 am

Join a ranger for a talk about the unique animals that call this deserrt home!

Visit Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
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Over $162 million

Since our founding in 1938, WNP has provided more than $162 million in aid to our partner parks to fund educational programs, initiatives, and scientific research.

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