Picacho Peak State Park (Open)

March 10, & 11: Civil War in the Southwest (Official AZ Centenntial Event)

This year marks the 150th Anniversary of the Engagement of Picacho Pass! In addition, the 2012 Civil War in the Southwest is an official Arizona Centennial Event. Visitors travel from around the country to experience three fascinating historic battle re-enactments complete with lifestyles of the soldiers in the southwest during the 1860s. More than 200 re-enactors come from many states and will camp at the park with their authentic Civil War camping gear. Food and beverage concessions are also available, including the popular Kettle corn vendor. Vehicle Entrance Fee: $10 up to 4 persons. Each additional person is $3. Individual Entrance Fee is $3 for walk-in or bike. Gate Hours are from 9:30 am - 3 pm and entry to park is permitted only during Gate Hours. Event hours are from 10 am - 4 pm. No Dogs are permitted in Event Area. Event supported by the Arizona State Parks Foundation. Download Event Flier ( 1 MB PDF)

Check back here to download a daily schedule prior to the event. In the meantime check out the photo galleries from 2011, 2010, and 2008. Re-enactors please register early and review additional re-enactor information.

Picacho Peak Now Offers 24/7 Online Campground Reservations!

Reserve a campground RV or tent site from the comfort of your home, anytime of day. Make online reservations Site reservations for this park are also available by calling the Reservation Center at (520) 586-2283. You can call 7 days a week, from 8 am to 5 pm MST. There is a $5 non-refundable reservation fee per site. Groups reservations can be made for the fall, winter, and spring months by calling the park.

About the Park

Enjoy hiking and camping at Picacho Peak State Park. The park now offers online campsite reservations.

Visitors traveling along I-10 in southern Arizona can’t miss the prominent 1,500-foot peak of Picacho Peak State Park. Enjoy the view as you hike the trails that wind up the peak and, often in the spring, overlook a sea of wildflowers. The park and surrounding area are known for its unique geological significance, outstanding and varied desert growth, and historical importance. The unique shape has been used as a landmark by travelers since prehistoric times. One of the first recordings was in the 1700s by the Anza Expedition as it passed through the area.

The park facilities include a visitor center with exhibits and a gift store, hiking trails, playground, historical markers, campground, picnic areas, ramadas, grills, dump station, restrooms, and showers. The group use areas, for day & overnight use, are available by reservation. Before you hike, be prepared with enough water and proper footwear as the trails are steep and challenging.

LEED Certified Visitor Center

The Picacho Peak State Park Visitor Center has been open 3 years! The Visitor Center has public restrooms, a gift shop, plus vending machines with energy drinks and snacks. Hours vary, but are typically 8 am to 5 pm. The building is currently in the LEED Certified "Gold". Photo: Members of the Arizona State Parks Board, executive staff, and park staff at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Visitor Center, in October 2009.