However, don't let the desert fool you, the nighttime temperatures drop rapidly and will catch you off guard if you aren't prepared.
In the U.S. you'll only find this wild cactus within an 80 mile radius of the park. The many branches rise from a base at the ground resembling the pipes of an organ.
The Ajo Mountain Drive is a 21 mile one-way dirt road. Though somewhat bumpy and dusty, it's well worth the effort. This scenic drive will introduce you to the varied terrain of the Sonoran Desert as it takes you from the desert floor into the hills and back again. There are splendid stands of saguaro cactus, organ pipe cactus, chain-fruit cholla, prickly pear cactus, ocotillo and many other varieties of vegetation.
Be sure to stop at the visitors center and pick up the printed tour guide (cost $1.00) before you take the drive. There are two good hiking paths on the route and the average time for the drive is two hours.The scenery is fabulous including this natural bridge.
There are four picnic areas along the drive so bring a lunch and enjoy this desert paradise. Birdwatchers will appreciate the many varieties of birds including the Gila woodpecker,
phainopepla, black-throated sparrow, canyon wren, cactus wren, flicker, Say's phoebe and many more including a colorful variety of hummingbirds.The scenic park campground overlooks Mexico and is surrounded by cactus of all varieties. There are no hook-ups but there is a dump station.
The campsites are paved and include a table and BBQ. Water is available near each campsite and modern restrooms with flush toilets are provided.
The spaces are designed to accommodate RVs up to 35 feet in length. 
There are some spaces which will handle 40 foot motorhomes and are available on a first come first served basis. Generator hours are 8:00 am to 10:00 am and from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.Camping costs $12.00 per day plus $8.00 for a one week pass. If you have the Golden Access Passport the camping fee is $6:00 per day.
During the winter season they have evening campfire programs for your family enjoyment. This park is a gem and I highly recommend it. If you are planning on taking an RV trip down to the beach at Rocky Point, Mexico, you will pass through this park. Why not plan on spending a day or two at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument as part of your travel plans? You won't regret it!
Out exploring this great country by RV - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing
0 comments:
Post a Comment