Arizona’s Chiricahua Becomes America’s 64th National Park
The United States has a brand-new national park, and travel enthusiasts are already planning their visits. On October 20, 2026, President Donald Trump signed the Chiricahua National Park Act into law, officially redesignating Chiricahua National Monument in southeastern Arizona as Chiricahua National Park—the country’s 64th national park and its first in six years.
Located approximately 120 miles east of Tucson, near Willcox, Chiricahua is Arizona’s fourth national park, joining Grand Canyon, Saguaro, and Petrified Forest. Known as the “Wonderland of Rocks,” the park protects around 12,000 acres of dramatic volcanic landscape. Its maze of towering rhyolite spires, hoodoos, and balanced rocks formed after an ancient volcanic eruption roughly 27 million years ago.
The area is also the ancestral homeland of the Chiricahua Apache people and holds deep cultural significance.
The redesignation bill passed both the House and Senate by unanimous consent earlier in 2026, reflecting rare bipartisan support. The law also includes provisions for tribal access to the park for traditional ceremonies.
- Admission: Free of charge
- Reservations: Not required
- Best time to visit: October is considered one of the finest months
Tourism officials expect a significant surge in visitors eager to explore America’s newest wilderness destination.
Source: National Park Service – Official News Release