Ranger Programs

Want to learn more about the Sonoran Desert? Our park rangers are here to help you explore your park and have fun!

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Have you ever wondered why Organ Pipe and Saguaro cacti do not grow in all the American deserts? How is the Sonoran Desert different from the others anyway? Join us one of our free interpretive programs as we share the stories about your National Monument.

Interpretive programs are offered January through March. Program schedule is printed in the current park newspaper and posted at bulletin boards around the park. Programs may be cancelled due to inclement weather and staff availability. Due to Arizona car seat law, childern under 12 or who are less than 4'9" in height are not able to participate in van tours.

Please check with the Kris Eggle Visitor Center (520)-387-6849 ext 7302 for more information.

 

Ajo Mountain Van Tours: Sunday, Wednesday, and Saturday
Take the opportunity to spend 3 hours with a ranger on a drive through one of the monument's most beautiful areas. Space is limited to 10 people per day. This program requires advanced reservation and a pre-payment of $5 per rider (payments must be made and boarding passes picked up at the visitor center no later than 8:30am on day of tour). Be sure to call the Kris Eggle Visitor Center a week in advance to reserve your space for a 9:00 am departure. Boarding pass reqired to board the van.

 

Location Talk- Quitobaquito Spring: Monday and Thursday
Join a ranger at this gorgeous desert oasis and learn about the animals and its rich cultural history. Meet the ranger at Quitobaquito at 1:30 pm or contact the visitor center to reserve a spot on the van for a 12:45 pm departure. Van rider must pick up boarding passes at the visitor center no later than 8:30am on day of tour. Boarding pass required to board the van.

 

Patio Talks: Daily
These 20 minute presentations take place on the back patio of the Kris Eggle Visitor Center at 11:00 am, 2:00 pm, and 3:30 pm. Subjects and presenters vary.

 

Location Talk- Blankenship Well: Tuesday and Friday
Join a ranger at Blankenship Well (Dos Lomitas), and explore the historic ranch stead from the early 20th century. Meet the ranger at Blankenship (Dos Lomitas) at 1:30 pm or reserve a spot on the van for a 1:00 pm departure. Van rider must pick up boarding passes at the visitor center no later than 8:30am on day of tour. Boarding pass required to board the van.

 

Evening Programs: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
End your evening with a 45-60 minute presentation at the Twin Peaks Campground amphitheater at 7:00 pm. Presentations cover a variety of topics, including natural and cultural history. Check bulletin boards for topics. Start time may vary in March due to longer days; check the program schedule for time changes.

 

Explore the Desert After Dark:
Organ Pipe Cactus comes alive after dark. Join park rangers for full moon hikes and stargazing programs throughout the season. Check the visitor center or bulletin boards for dates and times.

 

Special Programs:
Special educational and recreational programs will be offered to throughout the season. Check with the visitor center for more information. All programs take place at the Visitor Center.

• Science Lecture Series
• Organ Pipe Cactus Division Chief Talks
• Border Patrol 101

 

End your day by enjoying an evening program at the Twin Peaks Campground Amphitheater

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