Picacho Peak State Park

Picacho Peak State Park - Tucson, AZ

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Picacho Peak State Park

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Visitors to Picacho Peak State Park can view the famous landmark Picacho Peak,as it rises 1,500 feet above the Sonoran Desert floor. Hiking, camping and picnicking are the preferred pastimes here. Hikers enjoy the climb to the top of Picacho Peak, while those who prefer a more leisurely path can stroll along a trail at its base and observe the season's blooming wildflowers.

Picacho Peak also stands as a natural monument to history. In 1848, the Mormon Battalion constructed a wagon road through Picacho Pass. The 49'ers traveled this road on their way to California. In 1857, Jackass Mail began using the road and by 1858 the Butterfield Overland Stage was carrying passengers as well. Just four years later, war reached the peak when Union troops met the Confederates in the Battle of Picacho Pass.

The most significant Civil War Battle in Arizona took place near Picacho Peak in April 1862. An advance detachment of Union forces from California attacked a Confederate scouting party. The battle lasted for 1.5 hours and three Union soldiers were killed.

Every March over two hundred Civil War re-enactors converge on Picacho Peak on foot and horseback. Visitors to the park can observe exciting mock battles that took place in Arizona and New Mexico during the Civil War.

Today, two challenging trails can take visitors to the top of the peak. Hunter Trail begins on the north side and Sunset Vista Trail starts on the south side, from the Sunset parking area. On a clear day, Tucson is visible from the top of the peak.

Facilities: A campground with 85 electric sites (first-come, first-serve). There is a 12site RV group area also available. In addition, there are picnic areas, grills, restrooms and showers provided at Picacho Peak State Park.

Best Time To Visit: Picacho Peak State Park has a moderate elevation of 2,000 feet and as such will experience a hot desert climate. During the summer months visitors can expect very hot temperatures with afternoon thunderstorms possible especially in July and August. Daytime high temperatures can exceed 110 degrees.

Winter brings moderate temperatures to the low elevations, with warm days and cool to cold nights. Winter is a good time to experience these normally snow free areas. Fall and spring are transitional periods and can also be nice times to visit these desert regions. Be prepared for cool temperatures at higher elevations and dress in layers for your travels in this state of varying climates.

Fees: Entrance fees are charged. Additional camping fees may be charged.

Accessibility: All park facilities including restrooms and showers are handicapped accessible. Trails are not accessible.

Rules: Camping is allowed only in designated areas. Fires are permitted only in the fire rings and grills provided. Collection of firewood within the park is prohibited. State law protects all plants, animals, rocks, minerals and historic artifacts within the park boundaries. It is illegal to destroy or disturb these features.

Pets must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Use garbage dumpsters provided. Do not burn or bury garbage. Quiet hours in the park are from 10:00 pm to 7:00 am.

Visitors are responsible for knowing all park rules and regulations, which are posted in the park.

Directions: Picacho Peak State Park is located in south-central Arizona, between Tucson and Phoenix. The park is approximately 35 miles northwest from Tucson off Interstate 10 (exit 219).

Map: Click here for a map to Picacho Peak State Park

Reservations: Reservations are not needed or required to visit the park. Reservations are required for the group camping area and for group picnic Ramadas.

Attractions Near
Picacho Peak State Park

Sonoran Desert National Monument


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Address

Picacho Peak State Park

P.O. Box 275

Picacho, Arizona 85241

Phone
General: (520) 466-3183

Website