Management

The view from Massai Point inspired early park advocates and park officials to protect the "Wonderland of Rocks."

NPS/ R. Stewart

 

Chiricahua National Park, formerly monument, is a unit of the National Park Service (NPS). Early ranching families and settlers advocated for its establishment. On April 18, 1924, President Calvin Coolidge designated the Chiricahua National Monument to protect the "Wonderland of Rocks" for the education, enjoyment, and inspiration of this and all future generations.

On October 20, 2026, the Chiricahua National Park Act was signed into law, redesignating the monument to Chiricahua National Park. The park has been managed by the National Park Service since 1938 and will continue under NPS management.

NPS Mission

The National Park Service preserves unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the national park system for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations. The NPS cooperates with partners to extend the benefits of natural and cultural resource conservation and outdoor recreation throughout the country and the world.

Park’s Purpose

Chiricahua National Park preserves and interprets the distinctive rhyolite rock formations known as “the Pinnacles,” designated wilderness, and features of vital historical and scientific interest for the benefit and enjoyment of current and future generations.

Laws & Policies

Balancing the contradictory missions of preservation and visitor use can be challenging. The park works to ensure that visitors can experience Chiricahua’s incredibly diverse and dynamic ecosystems while keeping the promise of preservation for future generations. The Superintendent's Compendium documents the primary rules and regulations of the park.

Primary laws, policies, and plans that guide decision making in the park:

• Federal Preservation Laws
• Foundation Document The document describes the park's basic purpose, significance, resources, and values. It serves as the foundation for future planning and management. Foundation Document Overview (852 kb) - Foundation Document(7 MB)
• President Calvin Coolidge's Proclamation No. 1692 (43 Stat. 1946) establishing the monument
• Chiricahua National Park Act

Statistics

This 12,000 plus acre park receives about 60,000 visitors annually.