A government shutdown can do more than shake up the markets or delay federal paychecks. It can also throw your travel plans into chaos, especially if they involve a visit to a U.S. national park.
While some parks remain partially open during shutdowns, the lack of staff and services can significantly impact your experience and your safety.
If you’re planning a road trip or fall getaway, here’s what you need to know about how a government shutdown affects national parks, what’s still accessible and how to prepare for potential disruptions.
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Do national parks close completely during a shutdown?
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Not quite. National parks often remain physically open to the public during a government shutdown, but services are limited or nonexistent. Think of it this way: the gates might be open, but no one is there to greet you, guide you or maintain the facilities.
In past shutdowns — including the record-long closure in 2018 – 2019 — the National Park Service was forced to suspend most of its operations. Park rangers were furloughed, visitor centers were locked and vital services like trash pickup, restroom cleaning and road maintenance were paused.
So while you can still hike, drive through, or camp in some areas, you may be doing so without the usual oversight and amenities, which can make for a much different (and riskier) experience.
Which services are affected?
Visitor centers and ranger services
Visitor centers are typically closed during a shutdown, meaning no maps, information desks or exhibits. Educational programs, ranger-led tours and wildlife talks are suspended. Emergencies are still handled by law enforcement, but with reduced staffing, response times may be slower.
Campgrounds and reservations
Campgrounds operated by the National Park Service are often closed or left unsupervised. That means no reservations, no campground hosts and no access to amenities like showers or dump stations. If you’ve booked in advance, you may not get a refund. However, privately run campgrounds inside or near park boundaries may still operate as usual so check with them directly.
Road access and safety
Roads may remain open, but winter closures, storm damage, or fallen trees won’t be addressed promptly without maintenance crews. Unplowed snow and unmarked hazards can make driving dangerous. If you’re traveling through high-altitude or remote parks, it’s especially important to be cautious and prepared.
Restrooms and trash collection
These are among the first services to go. Without regular maintenance, overflowing trash cans and unsanitary restrooms can create health and environmental risks. During the last major shutdown, several parks saw damage from unattended litter and waste.
Which parks might stay open?
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Some states step in to fund park operations during a shutdown. For example, Arizona has historically allocated emergency funds to keep Grand Canyon National Park partially staffed. Similarly, Utah has done the same for Zion and Arches National Parks, given their importance to state tourism.
However, this isn’t guaranteed. Even when state funding helps, only basic services may be offered. If your route includes parks across multiple states, expect a patchwork of accessibility and support.
How to plan ahead during a shutdown
1. Check park status online
Before you leave, visit NPS.gov for updates. Each park typically has its own page detailing any closures or restrictions. Social media accounts for individual parks can also provide real-time alerts and posts from local authorities.
2. Prepare to be self-sufficient
Bring your own supplies including toilet paper, food, water, first-aid kits and waste bags. Assume that anything you would normally rely on the park to provide will not be available.
3. Build flexibility into your itinerary
Have a backup plan. State parks, local recreation areas, or even lesser-known sites managed by non-federal entities may serve as alternatives. Some travelers opt for more urban-based activities or plan overnight stays outside park boundaries to avoid issues.
4. Review your reservations and refund policies
If you’ve booked tours or camping sites, check cancellation terms. For bookings through third-party sites or private vendors, reach out to customer service for shutdown-specific updates.
What else could be affected?
National monuments and historical sites operated by the federal government fall under the same rules, meaning closures and staff reductions are common. Seasonal events such as guided winter hikes, stargazing programs and special tours may also be canceled.
For parks that straddle the U.S. border, like Glacier National Park’s connection to Waterton in Canada, international border services could also see delays or limited staffing.
Final thoughts
A government shutdown doesn’t mean you have to cancel your trip entirely, but it does mean you’ll need to adjust your expectations and plan more carefully. With reduced staff, fewer services and no safety net, travelers must take more responsibility for their own experiences.
If you do visit a national park during a shutdown, tread lightly. Follow Leave No Trace principles, pack out your trash and be mindful of the impact that unmonitored tourism can have on protected landscapes.
When in doubt, consider rescheduling or exploring alternative destinations until the parks are back to full operations. After all, these natural treasures deserve our best care, even when Washington can’t agree on a budget.