Cochise Stronghold, Near Pearce-Sunsites, AZ

Chiricahua Apache Chief, Cochise, and his people used the Dragoon Mountains as a hideout from their enemies. It's easy to imagine the lookouts standing guard on the cliffs overlooking the valley as their pursuers approach, while the rest of the tribe hides among the many crevices formed by huge boulders, rough terrain and within the abundant foliage.

Today, the Stronghold is managed by the National Park Service and hosts a beautiful, primitive campground, picnic area and a number of trails which tell the story of the Chiricahua people and their famous leader. A nature trail also describes the numerous plants and how they were used by the Chiricahuas...from food and drink, to shelter and baskets...it appears little was wasted.

The approach to the park is about 10 miles of gravel "washboard road". We traveled by car, but smaller RVs could successfully make the journey.

There are pit toilets and one or two water spigots, currently dry due to lack of rain, so one would need to come prepared with extra water. Our 40 footer would be unlikely to make it all the way there without some scratches from low hanging branches, but it would be a great place to camp for a few days to experience all of the trails and the sounds of night time in the wilderness. It would be magical!