Superintendent’s Compendium Revised August 2025
COMPENDIUM of designations, closures, permit requirements and other restrictions imposed under the discretionary authority by the Superintendent of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.
In accordance with the delegated authority provided by regulations as published under Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations (36 CFR), Chapter 1, Parts 1 through 7, authorized by Title 54 United States Code, Section 102701, the following regulatory provisions are established for the management, protection, and public use of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service.
Unless otherwise stated, these regulatory provisions apply in addition to the requirements contained elsewhere in Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 1, Parts 1 through 7.
The closures and restrictions delineated in this Compendium do not apply to official/administrative use or applications (36 CFR § l.2(d) and§ l.5(a)).
Written determinations, which explain the justification behind the Superintendent's use of discretionary authority, appear in this document as italicized print.
Section l .6(f) states that a list of activities that require a permit must be maintained. That list appears in this document under 1.6.
This Compendium will remain m effect until specifically amended or supplemented by the Superintendent.
PART 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS
The Superintendent of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument has used the discretionary authority granted by Chapter 1 of the 36 CFR 1.5(a) to establish certain closures. These closures and public use limits are necessary for the administration of the park in concert with its enabling legislation and NPS management policies for the benefit and safety of park visitors and the protection of park natural and cultural resources.
Section 1.5(a)(1) - Visiting Hours, Public Use Limits, Closures and Area Designations
(a)(l) The following visiting hours and public use limits are established for all or for the listed portions of the park, and the following closures are established for all or a portion of the park to all public use or to a certain use or activity:
Visiting Hours
The Kris Eggle Visitor's Center is open year-round, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Hours of operation:
Designated Fee Area
Entrance fees are required for entry onto lands designated within Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, to include activities addressed under special use permits, backcountry permits, etc. Entrance and camping fees can be paid online at recreation.gov and park passes may be purchased at the Kris Eggle Visitor Center.
Closures
The following areas are closed, except for use by the National Park Service, other federal, state, or local agencies, or those determined to be in accordance with approved General Management or Resource Management & Research Plans:
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Dos Lomitas Ranch House (building interior)
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Armenta Ranch House (building interior)
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Bates Well Ranch House (building interior)
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Road to the sewage ponds
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Road to the firearms range
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Road to the vegetative recycling area
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Road to the water well complex
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Road to the helicopter landing zone and equipment staging area
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All roads which access the shared office and parking spaces within the maintenance complex
Determination: These areas exist to facilitate the overall management of the Monument and may include areas that are unsafe for the public or contain equipment and other items of value including sensitive information.
Section 1.5(a)(2) - Designate Areas for a Specific Use or Activity or Impose Condtions or Restrictions on a Use or Activity
Conditions or Restrictions on a Use or Activity
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Launching, landing, or operating an unmanned device from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is prohibited except as approved in writing by the Superintendent.
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The term "unmanned device" means a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air or travel on the ground without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device, and the associated operational elements and components that are required for the pilot or system operator in command to operator or control the device (such as cameras, sensors, communication links). This term includes all types of devices that meet this definition (e.g., model airplanes, quadcopters, RC cars, remote controlled boats, hovercraft, and drones) that are used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce.
Determination: Unmanned device use, specifically unmanned aircraft use, has seen exponential growth in recent years. The use of unmanned aircraft is not compatible with public health and safety, protection of environmental or scenic values, protection of natural or cultural resources, and is incompatible with officially Designated Wilderness.
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Rock climbing activities that necessitate the use of fixed protection (i.e., cams, bolts, etc.), the chipping of rock faces, the gluing of holds onto rock, or the trampling/removal of vegetation are prohibited.
Determination: Rock features within the Monument have profound cultural significance to surrounding Tribal communities. Any manner of activity with the potential of damaging, defacing, or otherwise degrading natural features or aesthetics is contrary to the NPS Mission.
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Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity may require a permit, consistent with 54 U.S.C. 100905. Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity that occurs in closed areas, requires exclusive use of a site or area, or involves a set or staging equipment other than handheld equipment (such as a tripod, monopod, and handheld lighting equipment) requires a permit, unless the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.
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Filming, still photography, and audio recording that involves more than eight individuals requires a permit, unless the NPS has specifically notified an individual or group that a permit is not required, or if the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.
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If a permit is required for the reasons stated above, or if the NPS otherwise determines and then notifies an individual or group that a permit is required for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity, then engaging in that activity without a permit is prohibited. Violating a term or condition of a permit issued by the NPS for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity is prohibited, and may result in the suspension or revocation of the permit, in addition to any penalties that may apply under 36 CFR 1.3.
Determination: Federal law at 54 U.S.C. 100905 states that permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording in park areas if certain requirements are met. These requirements address various topics, including, but not limited to, group size, location, equipment, potential impacts to resources and visitors, and the likelihood that the NPS will incur related administrative costs. If any of these requirements are not met, the law allows the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the NPS, to require a permit for the subject activity. Permit requirements are imposed by the Superintendent under discretionary authority provided by 36 CFR 1.5(a)(2), which allows the Superintendent to impose conditions or restrictions on a use or activity, consistent with applicable legislation, to implement management responsibilities. The general regulations for permits in 36 CFR 1.6 do not apply to permits issued for filming, still photography, and audio recording, which instead are governed by the statutory provisions in 54 US. C. 100905. The imposition of permit requirements, on a case-by-case basis, for filming, still photography, or audio recording does not require rulemaking under 36 CFR l.5(b). Requiring a permit with reasonable terms and conditions in accordance with statutory requirements at 54 US. C. 100905 is not highly controversial, will not result in a significant alteration in the public use pattern of the System unit, will not adversely affect the System unit's natural, aesthetic, scenic or cultural values, or require a long-term or significant modification in the resource management objectives of the System unit, because the permit requirement is limited in time and scope to the specific activities authorized by the permit, which contain terms and conditions that protect the values, resources, and visitors of the System unit, and implements federal law.
Filming in Wilderness
Filming activities may not violate the provisions of the Wilderness Act, including prohibitions on structures, installations, motor vehicles, mechanical transport, motorized equipment, motorboats or landing of aircraft in wilderness areas (16U.S.C. § l 133(b)).
Except for casual filming by visitors, special use permits for filming are required for all filming activities in wilderness areas, no matter the group size or equipment used.
Determination: Considerations must be made in order to help preserve the wilderness character and the wilderness experience of other visitors.
Section 1.6(f) - A Valid Permit Issued by the Superintendent's Office is Required for the Following Activities Consistent with Applicable Legislation, Federal Regulations and Administrative Policies.
Failure to obtain a permit prior to engaging in the activities listed below is prohibited. 36 CFR § l.5(a)(2), § 1.6(a).
§ 1.5(d) Public Use Limits
§ 2.4 Weapons, traps, or nets
§ 2.5 Research Specimens
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(a) Taking plants, fish, wildlife, rocks or minerals except in accordance with other regulations of this chapter or pursuant to the terms and conditions of a specimen collection permit, is prohibited.
§ 2.10 Camping & Food Storage
§ 2.12 Audio Disturbances
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(a)(2) In developed areas, operating a power saw, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit.
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(a)(3) In non-developed areas, operating any type of portable motor or engine, or device powered by a portable motor or engine, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit.
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(a)(4) Operation of a public address system in connection with a public gathering or special event for which a permit has been issued pursuant to §2.50 or §2.51.
§ 2.17 Aircraft & Air Delivery
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(a)(3) Delivering or retrieving a person or object by parachute, helicopter, or other airborne means, except in emergencies involving public safety or serious property loss, or pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit.
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(c)(1) Except as provided in paragraph (c)(3), the owners of a downed aircraft shall remove the aircraft and all component parts thereof in accordance with procedures established by the Superintendent.
§ 2.22 Property
§ 2.37 Non-Commercial Soliciting
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Soliciting or demanding gifts, money, goods or services is prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit that has been issued under § 2.50, § 2.51 or § 2.52.
§ 2.38 Explosives
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(a) Using, possessing, storing, or transporting explosives, blasting agents or explosive materials is prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit.
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(b) Using or possessing fireworks and firecrackers is prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit or in designated areas under such conditions as the Superintendent may establish, and in accordance with applicable State law.
§ 2.50 Special Events
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(a) Sports events, pageants, regattas, public spectator attractions, entertainments, ceremonies, and similar events are allowed: Provided, however, there is a meaningful association between the park area and the events, and the observance contributes to visitor understanding of the significance of the park area, and a permit therefor has been issued by the Superintendent.
§ 2.51 Demonstrations and designated available park areas
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(a) The term "demonstrations" includes demonstrations, picketing, speechmaking, marching, holding vigils or religious services, and all other like forms of conduct that involve the communication or expression of views or grievances, engaged in by one or more persons, the conduct of which is reasonably likely to attract a crowd or onlookers. This term does not include casual park use by visitors or tourists that is not reasonably likely to attract a crowd or onlookers.
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(b) Permits and the small group permit exception. Demonstrations are allowed within park areas designated as available under paragraph (c)(2), when the Superintendent has issued a permit for the activity.
§ 2.52 Sale or distribution of printed matter and other message-bearing items
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(b) The sale or distribution of printed matter, and the free distribution of other message-bearing items without asking for or demanding payment or donation, is allowed within park areas if it occurs in an area designated as available under§ 2.5l(c)(2) and when the Superintendent has issued a permit for the activity, except that:
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(1) Sale or distribution activity by 25 persons or fewer may be conducted without a permit within designated park areas, provided that:
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(i) None of the reasons for denying a permit that are set out in paragraph (e) of this section are present;
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(ii) The group is not merely an extension of another group already availing itself of the small group permit exception under this provision;
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(iii) The sale or distribution will not unreasonably interfere with other permitted demonstrations and special events, or program activities; and
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(iv) Hand-carried signs may be used, but stages, platforms, or structures may not be used.
§ 2.61 Residing on federal lands
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(a) Residngin park areas, other than on privately owned lands, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit, lease or contract, is prohibited.
§ 2.62 Memorialization
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(b) The scattering of human ashes from cremation is prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit, or in designated areas according to conditions which may be established by the Superintendent.
§ 5.1 Advertisements
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Commercial notices or advertisements shall not be displayed, posted, or distributed on federally owned or controlled lands within a park area unless prior written permission has been given by the Superintendent.
§ 5.3 Engaging in or soliciting any business
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Engaging in or soliciting any business in park areas, except in accordance with the provisions of a permit, contract, or other written agreement with the United States, except as such may be specifically authorized under special regulations applicable to a park area, is prohibited.
Part 2 - RECOURCE PROTECTION, PUBLIC USE AND RECREATION
Section 2.1 - Preservation of Natural, Cultural and Archeological Resources
(c)(1) Collection of a reasonable amount of native fruit is permitted for personal use or consumption. Quanitities of fruits that can be collected are limited to (1) kilogram (equivalent to 2.2 pounds) per adult, per day. Comercial collecting of native fruits is prohibited.
The following species are classified as native fruits for the purposes of collecting.
Tribal members engaged in the traditional harvesting of cactus fruits may be authorized to exceed collection limits, pursuant to the conditions established of a special use permit.
Determination: The removal of native fruits in limited quantities does not have an adverse impact on park resources. Commercial harvesting of fruits would deny visitors the opportunity to experience the Monument in its natural state.
Section 2.10 - Camping and Food Storage
Twin Peaks Campground
Fee Compliance
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Entrance and camping fees must be paid online at recreation.gov (park passes can be purchased at the Kris Eggle Visitor Center) prior to occupying a campsite.
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Site permitting is on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Reservations are accepted no more than six (6) months in advance.
Determination: The Monument and its facilities are fee use areas. Occupying a site without first reserving it online has the potential to create undue conflict.
Occupancy
Camping Limits
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Limited to a maxiumum of twenty-one (21) calendar days during the peak season.
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Limited to a maximum of twenty-eight (28) calendar days during any one calendar year.
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Check-out time is 11:00 a.m.
Determination: Camping duration limits are intended to prevent domination of a campsite or the area by a relative few and to more equitably allocate use of the area. Time limits are also intended as a means to prevent an accumulation of impacts to camping areas. Such impacts include, but are not limited to: improvements to campsites, accumulation of body wastes and litter, expansion of campsite areas and trails and similar resource impacts.
Vehicles
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One RV per campsite is allowed, which can be accompanied by only as many vehicles as will fit within the site's paved parking area.
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Parking on the loop access roads, not within specifeid sites or parking areas, is prohibited.
Determination: Limitations on the number of vehciles per site is required to minimize site damage and maintain adequate traffic flow.
Tent Camping
Determinations:
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Limitations on the number of vehicles and people at a site minimize damage to vegetation and topography as well as help maintain the characteristics of a National Park Service campground that visitors seek. Less restrictive measures would not provide adequate protection to park resources or provide reasonable opportunities or the type of campground experience the public seeks when visiting the Monument.
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Limiting camping to specific areas is necessary for the maintenance of public health and safety, protection of the environmental and scenic values, protection of natural resources, implementation of management responsibilities and equitable use of facilities and avoidance of conflict among visitor use activities. Nothing in this paragraph precludes long-term day use of the park by visitors.
Water Usage/Sanitation
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Washing vehicles in the campground is prohibited.
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Dishwashing in the restroom sinks is prohibited.
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Water is available at the outside faucets or at the restrooms. It is prohibited to hook up a hose or similar device to these faucets. Hoses for filling up tanks with potable water are available at the dump station.
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Dispose of gray water in the utility sink in the restroom building or at the dump station.
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Black water (sewage) may only be disposed of at the dump station.
Determinations:
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Restricting water use by visitors reduces the overall consumption of the limited water within the Monument and controls costs.
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Food scraps clog restroom sinks and create unsanitary conditions. Utility sinks are designed specifically for this purpose.
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Proper disposal of gray and black water is in compliance with 36 CFR § 2.14 - Sanitation and Refuse.
Quiet Hours
Determination: Regulating noise within the Monument provides opportunities for a range of visitor experiences.
Generator Hours
Determination: Maximum visitation is typically Labor Day through Memorial Day. During peak visitation, regulating noise within the Monument enhances opportunities for a range of visitor experiences.
Electrical Outlets
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Electrical outlets are for the use of personal portable convenience items such as electric razors and blow-dryers.
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Operation/charging non-personal convenience items by hooking up to electrical outlets is prohibited.
Determination: Restricting electrical use by visitors reduces the overall consumption of electricity within the Monument and controls costs.
Fires
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Using native Sonoran Desert woods or vegetation for fires is prohibited, unless the visitor possesses a valid BLM or other agency collecting permit for native woods (i.e. mesquite) or written permission from a private landowner in accordance with State plant laws. Burning charcoal, milled lumber, presto logs, and obvious non-native wood is otherwise permitted.
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Liquid propane gas (LPG) stoves, fire pits, bowls, or lanterns are permitted.
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Fires must adhere to restrictions in 36 CFR § 2.13.
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All fires must be extinguished prior to leaving the campsite.
Determinations:
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Restricting campfires to designated containers reduces the severity and number of areas impacted by campfires and reduces the chance of a wildfire ignitingfrom sparks or other debris.
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LPG devices are acceptable as they offer a controlled and contained flame that typically has an on/off switch, allowing for immediate extinguishment.
Pets
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Pets must be on a leach or under physcial restraint at all times.
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Unattended pets outside of a mobile conveyance (vehicle, travel trailer, or RV) are not permitted.
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Unattended pets may only be secured inside of a mobile conveyance when ambient temperatures do not pose a risk to the animal's health or well-being.
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Pet-Friendly Trails:
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Pet Restricted Locations:
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All other trails.
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Restrooms.
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Pet areas are marked and available around the outside of the Campground Perimeter Trail.
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Pet excrement shall be removed - 36 CFR § 2.15 (a)(5).
Determination: Throughout all National Parks, pets must adhere to 36 CFR § 2.15. These restrictions have been implemented for pet safety, visitor safety, wildlife safety and resource perseverance.
Wildlife, Rocks, and Plants
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Feeding wildlife, to include feral canines, is prohibited
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The removal or defacing of any rock or plant is prohibited
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Shrubs and trees are not to be used as anchors for tents or for clotheslines
Determinations:
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The feeding of wildlife is prohibited not only for the visitor's safety but for the wildlife to stay wild and not depend on human support for food. 36 CFR § 2.2(a)(2)-Wildlife Protection.
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To provide for future generations with the same views and enjoyment of the environment as our generation has the defacing of any rock or plant is strictly prohibited. 36 CFR § 2.1 Resource protection.
Group Campground
Fee Compliance
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Entrance and camping fees must be paid online at recreation.gov (park passes can be purchased at the Kris Eggle Visitor Center) prior to occupying a campsite.
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Site permitting is on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Reservations are accepted no more than six (6) months in advance.
Determination: The Monument and its facilities are fee use areas. Occupying a site without first reserving it online has the potential to create undue conflict.
Occupancy
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Group Site #1
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Group Site #2
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40 persons
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0 tents
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13 RVs
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Group Site #3
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Group Site #4
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Group Site #5
Camping Limits
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Limited to a maximum of fourteen (14) days
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Limited to a maximum of thirty (30) days
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Check-out time is 11:00 a.m.
Determination: Camping duration limits are intended to prevent domination of a campsite or the area by a relative few and to more equitably allocate use of the area. Time limits are also intended as a means to prevent an accumulation of impacts to camping areas. Such impacts include, but are not limited to: improvements to campsites, accumulation of body wastes and litter, expansion of campsite areas and trails and similar resource impacts.
Vehicles
Determinations:
- Restricting water use by visitors reduces the overall consumption of the limited water within the Monument and controls costs.
Water Usage/Sanitation
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Washing vehicles in the campground is prohibited.
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Dishwashing in the restroom sinks is prohibited.
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Water is available at the outside faucets or at the restrooms. It is prohibited to hook up a hose or similar device to these faucets. Hoses for filling up tanks with potable water are available at the dump station.
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Dispose of gray water in the utility sink in the restroom building or at the dump station.
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Black water (sewage) may only be disposed of at the dump station.
Determinations:
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Restricting water use by visitors reduces the overall consumption of the limited water within the Monument and controls costs.
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Food scraps clog restroom sinks and create unsanitary conditions. Utility sinks are designed specifically for this purpose.
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Proper disposal of gray and black water is in compliance with 36 CFR § 2.14 - Sanitation and Refuse.
Quiet Hours
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10:00 p.m. - 6:00 a.m. daily.
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Unreasonable idling of vehicles during quiet hours is prohibited.
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Determination: Regulating noise within the Monument provides opportunities for a range of visitor experiences.
Generator Hours
- Labor Day through Memorial Day
- 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
- Memorial Day to Labor Day
Determination: Maximum visitation is typically Labor Day through Memorial Day. During peak visitation, regulating noise within the Monument enhances opportunities for a range of visitor experiences.
Electrical Outlets
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Electrical hookups are not available.
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Using extension cords for providing power to the site, vehicle, or rechargeable items is prohibited.
Determination: Restricting electrical use by visitors reduces the overall consumption of electricity within the Monument and controls costs.
Fires
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Using native Sonoran Desert woods or vegetation for fires is prohibited, unless the visitor possesses a valid BLM or other agency collecting permit for native woods (i.e. mesquite) or written permission from a private landowner in accordance with State plant laws. Burning charcoal, milled lumber, presto logs, and obvious non-native wood is otherwise permitted.
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Fires must adhere to restrictions in 36 CFR § 2.13.
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All fires must be extinguished prior to leaving the campsite.
Determinations: Restricting campfires to designated containers reduces the severity and number of areas impacted by campfires and reduces the chance of a wildfire ignitingfrom sparks or other debris.
Pets
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Pets must be on a leach or under physcial restraint at all times.
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Unattended pets outside of a mobile conveyance (vehicle, travel trailer, or RV) are not permitted.
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Unattended pets may only be secured inside of a mobile conveyance when ambient temperatures do not pose a risk to the animal's health or well-being.
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Pet-Friendly Trails:
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Pet Restricted Locations:
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All other trails.
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Restrooms.
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Pet areas are marked and available around the outside of the Campground Perimeter Trail.
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Pet excrement shall be removed - 36 CFR § 2.15 (a)(5).
Determination: Throughout all National Parks, pets must adhere to 36 CFR § 2.15. These restrictions have been implemented for pet safety, visitor safety, wildlife safety and resource perseverance.
Wildlife, Rocks, and Plants
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Feeding wildlife, to include feral canines, is prohibited.
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The removal or defacing of any rock or plant is prohibited.
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Shrubs and trees are not to be used as anchors for tents or for clotheslines.
Determinations:
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The feeding of wildlife is prohibited not only for the visitor's safety but for the wildlife to stay wild and not depend on human support for food. 36 CFR § 2.2(a)(2) - Wildlife Protection.
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To provide for future generations with the same views and enjoyment of the environment as our generations has the defacing of any rock or plant is strictly prohibited. 36 CFR § 2.1 Resource Protection.
Alamo Canyon Campground
Fee Compliance
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Entrance and camping fees must be paid online at recreation.gov (park passes can be purchased at the Kris Eggle Visitor Center) prior to occupying a campsite.
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Site permitting is on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Reservations are accepted no more than six (6) months in advance.
Determination: The Monument and its facilities are fee use areas. Occupying a site without first reserving it online has the potential to create undue conflict.
Occupancy
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Camping is limited to the four (4) estabished sites.
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Approved Camping Methods
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Restricted Camping Methods
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Motorhomes
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Travel Trailers
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Fifth Wheels
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Restricted vehicles listed above must use the Twin Peaks Campground or private facilities outside the Monument.
Determinations:
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Limitations on the number of vehicles and people at a site minimize damage to vegetation and topography as well as help maintain the characteristics of a National Park Service campground that visitors seek. Less restrictive measures would not provide adequate protection to park resources or provide reasonable opportunites, or the type of campground experiences the public seeks when visiting the Monument.
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Due to limited and restrictive space, larger vehicles and unregistered vehicles are not allowed at this location.
Camping Limits
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Limited to seven (7) days.
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Following seven (7) days, thirty (30) days must elapse before a new permit will be issued.
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Check-out time is 11:00 a.m.
Determination: Camping duration limits are intended to prevent domination of a campsite or the area by a relative few and to more equitably allocate use of the area. Time limits are also intended as a means to prevent an accumulation of impacts to camping areas. Such impacts include, but are not limited to: improvements to campsites, accumulation of body waste and litter, expansion of campsite areas and trails, and similar associated resource impacts.
Vehicles
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Each vehicle must display a permit.
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Vehicles must be parked within the space provided at the assigned campsite.
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Parking for day use/backcountry activities:
Determinations:
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Limitations on the number of vehicles and people at a site minimize damage to vegetation and topography as well as help maintain the characteristics of a National Park Service campground that visitors seek. Less restrictive measures would not provide adequate protection to park resources or provide reasonable opportunities or the type of campground experience the public seeks when visiting the Monument.
Water Usage/Sanitation
Quiet Hours
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10:00 p.m. - 6:00 a.m. daily.
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Unreasonable idling of vehicles during quiet hours is prohibited.
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Determination: Regulating noise within the Monument provides opportunities for a range of visitor experiences.
Generator Hours
Determination: Regulating noise within the Monument provides opportunities for a range of visitor experiences and preserves the integrity of the primitive campground.
Electrical Outlets
Determination: The lack of electricidal utilities is purposeful and preserves the integrity of the primitive campground.
Fires
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Ground fires are not permitted.
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Government provided grills may be used for charcoal fires only.
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Self-provided liquid propane gas (LPG) stoves, fire pits, bowls, or lanterns are permitted.
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Fires must adhear to the restrictions in 36 CFR § 2.13.
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All fires must be extinguished prior to leaving the campsite.
Determinations:
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Restricting fires to designated fuel types and containers reduces the severity of impacts commonly associated with ground fires, most notably the unintended ignition of a wildland fire.
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Collecting/burning of native vegetation is prohibited - 36 CFR § 2.1(a)(4) - Preservationo of natural resources - wood gathering/firewood prohibited.
Pets
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Pets must be on a leach or under physcial restraint at all times.
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Unattended pets outside of a mobile conveyance (vehicle, travel trailer, or RV) are not permitted.
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Unattended pets may only be secured inside of a mobile conveyance when ambient temperatures do not pose a risk to the animal's health or well-being.
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Pet excrement shall be removed - 36 CFR § 2.15 (a)(5).
Determination: Throughout all National Parks, pets must adhere to 36 CFR § 2.15. These restrictions have been implemented for pet safety, visitor safety, wildlife safety and resource perseverance.
Wildlife, Rocks, and Plants
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Feeding wildlife, to include feral canines, is prohibited.
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The removal or defacing of any rock or plant is prohibited.
-
Shrubs and trees are not to be used as anchors for tents or for clotheslines.
Determinations:
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The feeding of wildlife is prohibited not only for the visitor's safety but for the wildlife to stay wild and not depend on human support for food. 36 CFR § 2.2(a)(2) - Wildlife Protection.
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To provide for future generations with the same views and enjoyment of the environment as our generation has the defacing of any rock or plant is strictly prohibited. 36 CFR § 2.1 - Resource Protection.
Section 2.13(a)(1)(b) - Fires
Determinations:
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Restricting campfires to designated containers reduces the severity and number of areas impacted by campfires and reduces the chance of a wildfire igniting from sparks or other debris.
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Collecting/burning of native vegetation is prohibited - 36 CFR § 2.l(a)(4) - Preservation of natural resources - wood gathering/firewood prohibited.
Section 2.14 - Sanitation & Refuse
Determination: Limiting condition of the disposal of human waste to specific areas is necessary for the maintenance of public health and safety.
Section 2.15 - Pets
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Pets are permitted in public areas, such as the Kris Eggle Visitor Center area, Alamo Canyon Campground, Twin Peaks Campground (main and group).
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Walking of pets is permitted on North Puerto Blanco Drive, the road from the Kris Eggle Visitor Center to the Twin Peaks Campground, Alamo Canyon Road, and Ajo Mountain Drive.
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Pets are permitted on the Palo Verde Trail and the Twin Peaks Campground Perimeter Trail.
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Pets are prohibited from all other backcountry areas and trails.
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Unattended pets may only be secured inside of a mobile conveyance when ambient temperatures do not pose a risk to the animal's health or well-being.
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o If conditions are determined to be detrimental to the unattended animal, law enforcement has the discretion to remove the animal from the unsafe condition.
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Pet excrement shall be removed. 36 CFR § 2.15(a)(5).
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Park residents may keep pets in accordance with Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument Pet Policy. That policy is hereby adopted and made part of these orders.
Determination: Throughout all National Parks, pets must adhere to 36 CFR § 2.15. These restrictions have been implemented for pet safety, visitor safety, wildlife safety and resource perseverance.
Section 2.16 - Horses and Pack Animals
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Definitions:
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Pack animals are not permitted in backcountry areas that are closed to the public, or in the following developed areas:
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Pack animals may be ridden on the Monument's gravel roads.
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Pack animal users are required to obtain a backcountry permit for overnight trips.
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Maximum group size for day trips is six (6) people and seven (7) pack animals.
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Animals must be picketed in locations which least damage the vegetation. Animals may not be tied to trees or other vegetation.
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All manure dropped in or near any water source must be immediately removed to avoid contamination.
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Scouting/hunting camps in support of current or future hunting activity taking place on adjoining United States Fish and Wildlife Service lands are prohibited.
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Any commercially guided horse or pack stock trip must be provided by an outfitter authorized to operate under the incidental business permit procedures of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.
Determinations:
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Based on the information and impact reports these rules have been imposed to allow for minimal damage to vegetation and topography as well as help maintain the characteristics of the National Park Service that visitors seek. Less restrictive measures would not provide adequate protection to park resources or provide reasonable opportunities or the type of experience the public seeks when visiting the Monument.
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Limiting camping to specific areas is necessary for the maintenance of public health and safety, protection of the environmental and scenic values, protection of natural resources, implementation of management responsibilities and equitable use of facilities and avoidance of conflict among visitor use activities.
Section 2.21(a) - Smoking
Determinations: Due to the health and safety factors these areas have been closed to smoking to provide a healthy and safe atmosphere for all individuals. Due to the undetermined health factors of e- cigarette.
Section 2.22(a)(2) - Property
Determinations: Leaving property unattended is at the owners own risk. Permits must be visible and within compliance or the property may be impounded.
Section 2.23(b) - Recreation Fees
Visitors passing through Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, via the Bates Well Road, either while entering or exiting the Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge (CPNWR), may do so without paying the park entrance fee, provided that the party has secured an entry permit from the CPNWR and that the intent of the use of park lands is not for recreational purposes. Vehicles are not allowed to park within Monument boundaries unless a park entrance permit is purchased.
Determination: Park fees must be secured before recreating within Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. If your intent is to pass through the Monument a park fee is not required.
Section 2.35(3)(i)(A) - Alcoholic Beverages
The following areas are closed to the consumption of alcoholic beverages and/or to the possession of a bottle, can, or other receptacle containing an alcoholic beverage that is open, or that has been opened, or whose seal is broken or the contents of which have been partially removed:
Determination: Due to the health and safety factors these areas have been closed to consumption of alcohol to provide a healthy and safe atmosphere for all individuals.
Section 2.51(e)(f) - Locations Available for Public Assemblies
The following locations are designated for no permit required First Amendment activities involving groups of less than 25 persons:
Determination: This area has been determined to be the most appropriate location for public assemblies due to its location and availability.
Section 2.52(c)(e) - Sale or Distribution of Printed Matter
Sale or distribution of printed matter that is not solely commercial advertising requires a permit when the activity involves more than 25 persons or is requested for a location outside the identified designated areas. 36 CFR § 2.52(c)(e).
Determination: Due to the area allowed for public assemblies this is the only area allowed for printed matter.
Section 2.62(a)(b) - Memorialization
Determination: The conditions exist so as to provide for health and safety concerns, and to protect the integrity of the resource
Section 3.21(a)(1) - Swimming and Bathing
Determination: Animal's natural habits and activities can be adversely affected with human influence. Some of these activities including feeding, resting, and mating.
Section 4.21 - Speed Limits
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The speed limit on the road from the Kris Eggle Visitor Center to the Twin Peaks Campground is designated 25 miles per hour.
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The speed limit for all unpaved roads within the Monument is 25 miles per hour.
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The speed limit within campgrounds or parking areas is 15 miles per hour.
Determination: Due to the condition and location of these roads, the speed limit has been designated to be 25 miles per hour or less for the safety of the individuals driving, people walking or biking on the roads, and for the wildlife located on or near the roads.
Section 4.3 - Bicycles
Determination: E-bikes advance goals to promote parks as a health resource by supporting a healthy park experience that is accessible, desirable, and relatable to people of all abilities, and by minimizing human impact through the expansion of active transportation options in parks.
