Organ Pipe Cactus, The Premier Southwest Destination for Anyone Looking for a Truly Exceptional National Park Experience

Date: April 10, 2015
Contact: Sue Walter, [phone] x7301

Ajo, Arizona –For the past three months employees from Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument have been spreading the word that the monument is open and a great destination for visitors of all types. The message that there are plenty of recreation opportunities at the monument and it is safe got people interested in visiting. "During the events I continuously had campers tell other potential visitors that they should visit the monument, it is a must see destination and that they felt very safe being there" reported Park Ranger James Schenck.

Park Rangers staffed booths at three RV venues, the Arizona Game and Fish Outdoor Expo and the Tucson Festival of Books making contact to more than 9,500 people. One of the park's main goals since it opened previously restricted areas in September has been to attract visitors and expand its visitor services. The monument is hoping to increase its visitation of families, outdoor enthusiasts and RV campers.

Since September 2014 overall visitation to the monument is up 26% from last year and the campground has experienced a 34% increase. With 208 sites in the main campground there is still plenty of room for more and some sites can accommodate 40 foot RVs. The staff at Organ Pipe has increased and with additional employees a variety of new programs and services were offered this past winter."Many of our visitors have told us that they are so glad the monument is open again and not only are they excited to come back and enjoy this amazing park but that they feel safe and are impressed with the new programs and visitor services" said Schenck.

2016 is the National Park Service's centennial. The monument staff is inviting everyone to Find Your Park at Organ Pipe Cactus.

For more information about recreational opportunities at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument please visit www.nps.gov/orpi or call 520-387-6849, extension 7302.

www.nps.gov

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