My van life destination list is long and Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is one place I can now check off. I have travelled through Arizona several times but had never been to this southern area of the state.
The National Monument is located in southern Arizona south west of Tucson and on the border of Mexico. Well worth the drive on narrow somewhat rough road to get there. The area was even more stunning than I expected. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve spans over 330,000 acres. It is the only place in the United States where the senita and organ pipe cactus grow wild.
Van Life Destination Historical Background
Established in 1937 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument was created to preserve the extraordinary natural and cultural resources of the area. It gets its name from the organ pipe cactus, a species that reaches its northernmost growth here.
This region has been inhabited for thousands of years, with evidence of ancient Hohokam and Tohono O’odham cultures. These indigenous groups utilized the desert resources for food, medicine, and tools, leaving behind petroglyphs and other archaeological sites. You can learn more about this at the wonderful visitor center.
Ajo Mountain Scenic Drive
The 21 mile Ajo Mountain Scenic Drive which is an accessible way to experience the beauty of the desert was memorable. As I drove along the windy scenic road, the stunning cactus and mountain views were breathtaking. A truly different experience than I am use to, coming from the Canadian southwest.
We have huge cedar, fir, and pine trees that are 100’s of years old. Here all I could see for miles were the massive Saguroa and Organ Pipe cactus. Some of them are 30 or 40 years old and live to be over 150 years old! I had never seen such large cactus and always learn something new on my travels.
The monument is also a haven for stargazing, thanks to its remote location and dark skies. If you are a hiker, trails such as the Desert View Trail and the Bull Pasture Trail provide opportunities to explore the rugged terrain and enjoy panoramic views on foot.
Ajo, Arizona was another Van Life Destination
Ajo is a small, charming town situated approximately 130 miles southwest of Phoenix and about 40 miles north of the Mexican border. It’s proximity to the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument made it the ideal base for me to find free camping and explore more of the Sonoran Desert.
Just a few miles from this lovely little town I found great BLM where I was able to park and where I enjoyed my 14 day stay. The mountainous desert scenery and sunsets were stunning. The cell service was just okay in my camping spot so I regularly drove to the Ajo library for their internet and to enjoy the quaint town.
The town’s centerpiece is the Ajo Plaza, designed by the renowned architect James M. Creighton in the Spanish Colonial Revival style. This picturesque plaza, with its arched arcades, whitewashed buildings, and central fountain, reflects the town’s rich heritage and serves as a focal point for community activities and events.
The historic Curley School, now an arts center, is another architectural gem, showcasing Mission Revival style with its elegant design and vibrant arts community. I also enjoyed the beautiful white washed church and colourful alley wall art.
Ajo's Historical Background
Ajo’s history is deeply intertwined with mining. The name “Ajo” is derived from the Spanish word for garlic. It is also believed to have originated from the Tohono O’odham word for paint, “au’auho,” which references the red oxide found in the area.
Copper mining began in earnest in the early 20th century when John Campbell Greenway, a prominent mining engineer, established the New Cornelia Mine. The town quickly grew around the mine, and Ajo thrived as a bustling mining community for several decades.
The closure of the New Cornelia Mine in the 1980s marked a significant turning point for Ajo. The town faced economic challenges as it transitioned away from a mining-dependent economy. In response, the community has focused on sustainable tourism, arts, and cultural heritage as new avenues for economic development. Efforts to preserve Ajo’s historical sites and promote eco-tourism have helped revitalize the local economy.
Cactus, Desert and Great Weather
A fabulous van life destination to this area exploring and enjoying the cactus, mountains and desert views. The weather was a bit cooler than normal I was told. However, the 25 degrees celisus (77 F) was perfect temperature for me. I highly recommend everyone to come and experience this beautiful area in southern Arizona.