As the unique environment of Madera Canyon began to be threatened by human encroachment and environmental degradation, local residents and businesses came together in 1987 to form the Friends of Madera Canyon as a response to the U.S. Forest Service's appeal to the public for volunteers to help preserve and protect Madera Canyon.

The Friends of Madera Canyon assists in advancing historical, scientific, educational, and interpretive programs in Madera Canyon. Our 500-plus household members (about 1,000 individual members) volunteer to contribute on average 10,000 hours per year to guarantee that Madera Canyon remains one of Arizona's premier destinations for nature lovers.

The Friends of Madera Canyon is a non-profit 501(c)(3) volunteer organization affiliated with the U.S. Forest Service. The organization provides informational brochures, clean-up crews, research and education programs for adults and school children, maintenance of trails for the handicapped, designs and maintains trail and nature signs, welcomes visitors, and finances the building of many of the facilities throughout the Canyon.