Both the west and east entrances to Pinnacles National Park are closed to the public with the exception of campers with reservations.
The federal government shutdown to start the year initially prompted closure of the eastern entrance on the San Benito County side with the western entrance open. Now the national park website is saying both sides of the park are closed.
The national park’s initial announcement at the end of 2018 noted:
Beginning Sunday, December 30, the eastern portion of Pinnacles National Park will be accessible only to campers with confirmed reservations at the Pinnacles Campground. The western entrance will remain accessible to all visitors.
That tenor has now changed. Pinnacles National Park is saying that the west entrance is closed as well.
Pinnacles has noted that campers should carry a copy of their reservations to facilitate access to the campground.
The closure related to the federal government shutdown to start the year caused by the dispute between the president and Congress over funding a border wall.
According to the Pinnacles National Park website:
During the lapse in federal appropriations, Pinnacles National Park will remain accessible to visitors however services will be reduced as we are unable to fully staff our operations. Below is a list of services/facilities that are open or closed. Please be reminded that due to environmental, public safety, or other unknown factors, visitor services may be diminished or additional areas may be closed. We will not be able to update roads and weather information.
It is important that visitors obey posted signs and park regulations. The Balconies Cave is currently closed to visitors due to a recent rock fall, and the area remains unstable and dangerous for visitors. Fire danger remains high. Smoking is prohibited on trails. Visitors should park in designated spots only and avoid parking off road, as hot vehicle undercarriages could ignite dry grass.
Western Entrance: Closed to all visitors
Eastern Entrance: Open only to visitors with confirmed reservations at the Pinnacles Campground. Campers should carry a copy of their reservation to facilitate access to the campground.
Restrooms & Trash: Restrooms located in the campground, portable toilets at Peaks View and Old Pinnacles, and pit toilets at Scout Peak and North Chalone Peak will be open. All others will be closed. Because restroom facilities are limited, visitors are encouraged to stop and use restroom facilities before entering the park. Visitors are also encouraged to pack in and pack out all trash, as custodial services are not available at this time.
Visitor Information: Park provided information and orientation will not be available. Entrance stations will be unstaffed. Visitor Centers. The Public Information Office phone line will not be staffed. All Ranger guided programs are cancelled.
Campground: Concession services will remain open. This includes Pinnacles Campground and the Campground Store. Restrooms in the campground will remain open.
Hiking: Hiking trails normally opened at this time will remain open
