Arizona Has a New National Park!

October 20, 2026 Press Release 'After nearly a decade of work, persistence has finally paid off, and this historic effort has reached the summit.' Cochise County, AZ - Representative Juan Ciscomani is celebrating the passage of his Chiricahua National Park Act ( H.R. 6380 ), which President Trump signed into law this afternoon. This effort crossed the finish line after a decade of bipartisan work. Chiricahua National Park is now Arizona’s fourth national park and the second in Arizona’s Sixth District. "I’m incredibly proud that my Chiricahua National Park bill is officially law, establishing Arizona’s fourth national park," said Rep. Juan 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." To mark this milestone in both Arizona and United States history, Rep. Ciscomani was joined by U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) Secretary Doug Burgum for a ceremony, remarks, and tour at Chiricahua National Park this afternoon. The celebration took place an hour after President Trump signed the bill into law. "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 of the Interior Doug 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." Under the new law, the 102-year-old Chiricahua National Park joins Saguaro National Park in southern Arizona, Grand Canyon National Park in northern Arizona, and Petrified Forest National Park in eastern Arizona. The official designation of Chiricahua as a national park is expected to attract more visitors to southeastern Arizona, boosts local tourism, support local businesses, and create new economic opportunities throughout Cochise County and Arizona’s Sixth Congressional District. Known as the "Wonderland of Rocks," Chiricahua National Park was first established as a National Monument in 1924 and protects a breathtaking landscape that attracts visitors from across the United States. Since his first year in Congress and his second bill introduced Representative Ciscomani has made the park’s designation a top priority, working closely with bipartisan colleagues in both chambers. His relentless advocacy culminated in this historic achievement. Local leaders across southeastern Arizona have voiced strong support for the new national park designation, recognizing its national significance. "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 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 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 Chairman Westerman. You can read more about today's signing HERE and read the full text of the legislation HERE . Read local media coverage of this historic milestone HERE and HERE . Image ###