December and January are popular camping months-especially in the south and southwest. But unfortunately the government shutdown is having a dire effect on the camping experience in National Parks everywhere.
Limited staffing and funds are straining resources at National Parks which are usually operating at capacity during the winter break. Some parks have closed, which leaves campers with reservations having to look for last-minute alternative vacations while other campgrounds are dealing with the consequences of too many people and not enough rangers and staff to care for them.
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According to the Los Angeles Times, Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Park have remained open, but visitors are dealing with closed or dirty bathrooms, piles of trash and refuse, and reports of illegal fires and vandalism. Entrance fees at many parks are being waived, but without park caretakers to ensure everyone follows the rules, it’s been a free-for-all.
Volunteers have tried to keep order by restocking toilet paper and handing out trash bags to campers, but many have been faced with resistance from campers who don’t adhere to the ethos of “Leave No Trace“.
In nearby Utah, most parks remain open and the only emergency services are available-but response time might be slower, so it’s not a good time to get lost or break your leg.
Arizona is spending over $64,000 per week to keep the Grand Canyon National Park open during the shutdown, but officials say that if the shutdown extends beyond seven days, they can’t guarantee the park will remain open.
If you plan on visiting a National Park this week, please respect the rules of the campground, pack out what you pack in, and play nice with others.
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