We went to Death Valley during the shut down during 2018 and honestly, it was totally fine. The hotel in the park was open and the restaurants not operated by the park service were also open. Yes, the bathrooms were gross but we survived.

Thanks, all. We ended up cancelling and getting a refund. JFC.

Yes you should.

When we went to Grand Canyon during a shutdown, no one was throwing away the trash. It was pretty bad.

The National Parks actually don't want anyone coming bc visitors without oversight often do things detriminetal to the park land--for example, cut down trees in Joshua Tree.

The hotels and restaurants in the park are run by concession, you should call them to find out what is happening.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Sounds like they will let you in the park but bathrooms, restaurants etc may be closed.

Oh, boy. That will be gross.

Imagine the staff being excited to return to work only to have to handle that mess!

Anonymous wrote:Sounds like they will let you in the park but bathrooms, restaurants etc may be closed.

Oh, boy. That will be gross.

Is any of your trip refundable? Airfare? Hotel rooms are usually refundable until 24/48 hours out but confirm based on the way you booked it.

Anonymous wrote:Sounds like they will let you in the park but bathrooms, restaurants etc may be closed.

I'm wondering how long the shutdown will last. I know nobody has any way of knowing, but I don't want to postpone if there's a chance it reopens -- but also don't want to gamble. I am torn! Will it last a week?

Sounds like they will let you in the park but bathrooms, restaurants etc may be closed.

Slated to fly out on Wednesday, a week from today. Looks grim with the shutdown. I wonder how and what will be affected and for how long. WWYD?