# Chiricahua becomes nation’s 64th national park

> Trump designates Chiricahua as national park, sparking debate over tourism impact.
- Title: Chiricahua becomes nation’s 64th national park | Shortify
- Summary: Trump designates Chiricahua as national park, sparking debate over tourism impact. Chiricahua National Park joins 63 other U.S. parks but faces criticism…
- Keywords: chiricahua, national park, arizona, trump, national park service, national monument, tourism, redesignation, bears ears, gateway arch, grand canyon, petrified forest
- Source: The Conversation — https://theconversation.com/chiricahua-is-the-nations-newest-national-park-what-does-that-mean-293785
- Author: Seth T. Kannarr
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: chiricahua, national park, arizona, trump, national park service, national monument, tourism, redesignation, bears ears, gateway arch, grand canyon, petrified forest
## Chiricahua redesignated
President Trump created the nation’s 64th national park by signing legislation for Chiricahua in southeastern Arizona.
## Chiricahua’s history
Chiricahua was established as a national monument in 1924 to protect rhyolite hoodoos and wildlife diversity.
## National park designations
The National Park Service manages 433 units with 19 designations, only 64 of which are national parks.
## Political significance
The redesignation was a bipartisan effort co-sponsored by Arizona Reps. Juan Ciscomani and Greg Stanton.
## Tourism concerns
Critics fear increased tourism and overcrowding in Chiricahua’s small park with limited infrastructure.
## Gateway Arch comparison
Gateway Arch National Park is the smallest-area park at less than 200 acres with no natural plant life.
## No additional funding
Chiricahua receives no new federal funding or protections under the national park designation.
## Marketing impact
The 'new national park' label attracts visitors through improved marketing and signage without new protections.
## Future redesignations
Other areas like Indiana Dunes and White Sands are also being considered for national park redesignations.
## Key takeaway

Chiricahua National Park joins 63 other U.S. parks but faces criticism over tourism growth without new protections.