Arizona’s Chiricahua Becomes 64th National Park

Chiricahua National Monument in southeastern Arizona has been redesignated as the nation’s 64th national park under legislation signed by President Donald Trump on Oct. 20, 2026. The roughly 12,000-acre park is known for volcanic rock spires formed about 27 million years ago, diverse ecosystems, and its significance to the Chiricahua Apache and local homesteading history. The change elevates the site’s profile but does not alter its boundaries or substantially change its management. The National Park Service says updated signs, passport stamps, brochures and merchandise will roll out over time, with no confirmed schedule for a permanent entrance sign; the legislation provided no dedicated transition funding. Officials say the designation could attract more visitors and support nearby communities.