Council Rocks
Social trails meander through the large boulders at the base of the Dragoon Mountains. The pictures on the rocks are hundreds of years old and have faded with time. They are extremely fragile and should not be touched. This area served as a shelter for many who passed through the area. Grinding mortars were used as a pestle to grind nuts and seeds.
The Dragoon Mountains were part of the Apache Chief Cochise's stronghold, where his people eluded pursuing military troops. Council Rocks served as a natural amphitheater and may have been a meeting place.
Council Rocks Photo Gallery
General Information
Fall through spring. Extreme heat in summer.
Camping is not permitted within the Council Rocks area. The site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This area has a profound cultural history and significance. Please visit with respect.
Address: 1192 West Saddle View Rd., Douglas, AZ 85607
Phone: (520) 388-8436
Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday (Closed on federal holidays)
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 31.91027778
Longitude: -110.0322222
Directions
West Stronghold: From Tucson, take I-10 east for approximately 45 miles to Benson. Turn south on US 80 and drive 22 miles to Middlemarch Road (roughly 1 mile north of Tombstone). Turn left (east) on Middlemarch Road (Forest Road #345). At the Forest Boundary, turn left on Forest Road 687. Follow Forest Road 687 for approximately 6.5 miles and take a sharp right down a narrow dirt road to a small parking area.
Travel Considerations
High clearance vehicles required. May be unpassable during periods of high water.
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Picnic Tables
Picnic tables are not available at this site.
Horse/Pack Animal Information
Horse/Pack animals are not allowed at this site.
