Discover Southern Arizona and Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

by Roger Naylor and staff

Explore the beauty of the Sonoran Desert and the cultural diversity in Southern Arizona including Tucson. Tucson boasts numerous museums and parks and features the oldest standing European structure in Arizona – Historic Mission San Xavier del Bac.

Another unique attraction in the area is Old Tucson which was founded in 1939 as a film set for Hollywood Westerns. Old Tucson is rolling out the red carpet for two of Southern Arizona’s most anticipated seasonal experiences: the spine-tingling Nightfall and the heartwarming holiday spectacular Yuletide. Alongside these seasonal blockbusters, Old Tucson continues to offer immersive Western Experience events that celebrate the spirit of the Old West year-round.

Located roughly midway between Tucson and Yuma, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument encompasses an incredible diversity of Sonoran Desert plants and animals. All told, 28 species of cactus can be found throughout the park, including the namesake organ pipe, which is found almost nowhere else in the United States. This is wild country, fierce, and full of secrets. This sprawling intact ecosystem includes miles of scenic roads and hiking trails for those yearning to explore the heart of the Sonoran Desert. 

Within the national monument, Twin Peaks Campground contains 208 sites (174 RV and 34 tent only sites). The campground includes water, restrooms, solar showers, grills, tables, and dump station. Hookups are not available.