News Release

New Release - Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is Modifying Operations to Implement Latest Health Guidelines

Date: March 18, 2020
Contact: Frank Torres, [phone] ext.7301

Ajo, AZ – Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is announcing modifications to operations to implement the latest guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), and local and state authorities to promote social distancing. As of March 18, 2020 Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument will close the Kris Eggle Visitor Center until further notice. Park information and site brochures will be available to visitors in front of the visitor center. Previously scheduled van tours of the Ajo Mountain Drive, shuttle services to designated trails, and ranger led programs have been canceled. The Twin Peaks Campground will remain open.
Reservations for a campsite will need to be made on-line with Recreation.gov. The Twin Peaks Group Campsite will be closed, and backcountry permits are suspended until further notice. Ajo Mountain Drive, North and South Puerto Blanco Drive, Quitobaquito, in addition to all other public sites within the monument will remain open.
 
“The health and safety of our visitors, employees, volunteers, and partners is our number one priority”, according to Superintendent Scott Stonum. The National Park Service (NPS) is working with the federal, state, and local authorities to closely monitor the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) situation. “We will notify the public when we resume full operations and provide updates on our website and social media channels.” 
 
The NPS urges visitors to do their part when visiting a park and to follow CDC guidance to prevent the spread of infectious diseases by maintaining a safe distance between yourself and other groups; washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; and most importantly, staying home if you feel sick. 
 
For high-risk populations, such as the elderly and people with underlying conditions, we ask that they take extra caution and follow CDC guidance for those at higher risk of serious illness. 
 
Updates about NPS operations will be posted on www.nps.gov/coronavirus. Please check with individual parks for specific details about park operations. *****************************************
 
 
 For more information about Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, please contact the visitor center at 520-387-6849 ext. 7302, visit the park website at www.nps.gov/orpi, or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/organpipecactusnationalmonument.