Pinnacles National Park assesses damage post-shutdown

Downed trees, rock slides, and unmaintained bathrooms: these are just a few of the concerns that have accumulated at Pinnacles National Park over the 35-day, government shutdown.

“It’s really frustrating for everyone. This land is supposed to be protected,” said camper, Lauren Hulphers.

Park rangers and employees will return to work, Monday. Their absence has since left its mark, not only on the land, but on the people that visit.

“I think a lot of people don’t come because of the government shutdown,” said camper, Steve Faotheringham.

The East Entrance remained open for campers with reservations booked prior to the shutdown. One day out from its reopening, the park warned visitors about what happens now. The park posted to Facebook about the detrimental effects of the shutdown.

“I’m just thinking about what they’re going to have to come back to. All this trash, and all this cleanup, and things that they would’ve been able to take care had they been here,” said Hulphers.

The park reminded visitors that the clean-up process will not happen overnight. Campers said they understand. “The park service always takes great care to make sure it’s all safe and I feel very comfortable and am very happy that the park remained open,” said camper, David Stewart.