Death Valley, CA—Death Valley National Park re-opens to visitors today. Visitors can access public areas and roads immediately while facilities and other public services are brought back online. Death Valley National Park has been closed since October 1 due to the lapse in Congressional appropriations. "We are excited and happy to be back at work and welcome visitors to Death Valley National Park," said Superintendent Kathy Billings. "Autumn is just the beginning of a particularly special season to enjoy all that Death Valley has to offer." The park is proud to be a member of the local communities, and contributes more than $50 million to the local economy. "The economic impact of closing this park for 16 days has been extremely tough on our gateway communities, local businesses, neighbors, and park partners, states Superintendent Billings. "We look forward to working with our neighbors and partners on ways to lesson that impact." Visitor facilities that have reopened include: Furnace Creek Visitor Center, Texas Springs Campground, Mesquite Springs Campground, Stovepipe Wells Village, Scotty's Castle, and the park's major scenic overlooks, and backcountry and wilderness. Due to the shutdown the opening of Furnace Creek Campground and Sunset Campground is being delayed. It is hoped Furnace Creek Campground will be open by Friday, October 25, 2013. It is hoped that Sunset Campground will be open by Monday, October 21, 2013. These are tentative dates; please check the park's web page for updates at www.nps.gov/deva. The following roads remain closed due to flood damage that occurred prior to the shutdown: Badwater Road..................CLOSED from Badwater to south entrance. OPEN to Badwater from Hwy 190. WARNING on all backcountry roads: possible flood damage and inaccessibility. Please use caution. For more information, please visit: www.nps.gov/deva or call the park at 760-786-3200. -NPS- |
Last updated: February 28, 2015