Arizona Welcomes Its Fourth National Park Following Nearly a Decade of Bipartisan Efforts
COCHISE COUNTY – Congressman Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06) celebrated a historic victory for southeastern Arizona today as President Donald Trump signed his Chiricahua National Park Act (H.R. 6380) into law, officially establishing Arizona’s fourth national park and the second in the Sixth Congressional District.
The designation marks the culmination of nearly a decade of bipartisan efforts to protect one of Arizona’s most remarkable natural landmarks while expanding tourism and economic opportunities throughout Cochise County.
Next stop: Chiricahua National Park!
A decade-long effort is now across the finishline, thank you @POTUS! https://t.co/1Q7nZlys90
— Congressman Juan Ciscomani (@RepCiscomani) October 21, 2026
“I’m incredibly proud that my Chiricahua National Park bill is officially law, establishing Arizona’s fourth national park,” said Congressman Ciscomani. “After nearly a decade of work, persistence has finally paid off, and this historic effort has reached the summit. I’m incredibly grateful to our local partners, whose dedication and collaboration with my office were instrumental in getting this across the finish line. This achievement will preserve Arizona’s rich heritage for generations to come. As we celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary, I cannot think of a better way to honor our history and natural beauty than by welcoming Arizona’s fourth national park, and the second national park in Arizona’s Sixth Congressional District.”
Ciscomani was joined by Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum for a dedication ceremony and tour of the park just one hour after President Trump signed the legislation.
“As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, President Trump is writing an exciting new chapter in our nation’s conservation history with the designation of Chiricahua as America’s 64th National Park,” said Secretary Burgum. “Arizona is home to some of the most extraordinary landscapes on Earth, and this historic designation will introduce even more Americans to the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of southeastern Arizona while bringing new visitors, economic opportunities and investment to surrounding communities. Thanks to the leadership of Congressman Juan Ciscomani and our partners across Arizona, we’re ensuring this remarkable place can be enjoyed by Americans for generations to come.”
Established as a national monument in 1924, Chiricahua is known as the “Wonderland of Rocks” for its towering rock formations, dramatic landscapes, and distinctive geological features.
The new designation places Chiricahua alongside Grand Canyon, Saguaro, and Petrified Forest national parks, making it the nation’s 64th national park.
Beyond preserving the region’s natural and cultural heritage, the designation is expected to increase tourism, strengthen local businesses, create jobs, and attract new investment to southeastern Arizona.
Ciscomani made the national park designation a priority during his first year in Congress, introducing the legislation as his second bill and working with bipartisan partners in the House and Senate to secure its passage.
Local leaders praised the designation and its anticipated economic benefits.
“The Chiricahua Mountains are one of Arizona’s greatest natural treasures, and recognizing Chiricahua National Monument as a National Park is a tremendous opportunity for Cochise County and future generations. This designation will bring greater national recognition to southeastern Arizona, strengthen our local economy, and support the businesses and communities that welcome visitors to this remarkable region. I want to thank President Trump for signing this important legislation into law and Congressman Ciscomani for his leadership and dedication in making this long-awaited designation a reality,” said Cochise County Chairman Frank Antenori.
“The Chiricahua Mountains are an important part of Cochise County’s history, natural beauty, and identity. Designating Chiricahua as a National Park will help introduce more visitors to everything southeastern Arizona has to offer, creating new opportunities for our rural communities, small businesses, and tourism industry. I sincerely appreciate President Trump signing this legislation into law, Congressman Ciscomani’s continued efforts, and the bipartisan cooperation that helped bring this important recognition to our region,” said Cochise County Supervisor Kathleen Gomez.
“This is a historic day for Willcox, Cochise County, and the entire State of Arizona. The Chiricahuas are one of our nation’s greatest natural treasures, and designating them as a National Park will ensure future generations can experience their extraordinary beauty. This accomplishment would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of Congressman Juan Ciscomani, Senator Mark Kelly, HECHO, and the many partners who worked together to make this a reality. We are especially grateful to President Trump for signing this legislation and recognizing the importance of protecting this remarkable landscape,” said Willcox Mayor Greg Hancock.
“The designation of Chiricahua National Park represents a tremendous opportunity for Willcox and the surrounding communities. As a gateway to the Chiricahuas, Willcox is uniquely positioned to benefit from increased visitation, new business investment, and additional tourism-related jobs. This designation will strengthen our local economy, support our small businesses, and introduce more visitors to everything southeastern Arizona and Cochise County has to offer. The economic benefits of this decision will be felt for generations,” said Willcox City Manager Caleb Blaschke.
“Thanks to Representative Ciscomani’s determined efforts, Arizona has a new national park that will create jobs and economic growth in the region. Chiricahua now takes its rightful place among America’s most treasured public lands and will be a bucket list destination for millions of Americans for generations to come. I congratulate Representative Ciscomani and Arizona on being home to our newest crown jewel,” said House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman.
The legislation represents a major milestone for Arizona’s conservation efforts and southeastern Arizona’s tourism economy, ensuring that the Chiricahua Mountains receive greater national recognition and remain protected for future generations.
Read the legislation: H.R. 6380 – Chiricahua National Park Act
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