The eastern side of Pinnacles National Park in San Benito County is closed starting today due to the federal shutdown.
Pinnacles made the announcement Saturday that the eastern side will be closed with the exception of campers who make reservations with the Pinnacles Campground.
According to the statement from Pinnacles:
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.
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. Park rangers will close the eastern park entrance at the intersection of state routes 25 and 146 due to impacts from human waste and increased vehicle congestion. Campers should carry a copy of their reservation to facilitate access to the campground.
It is important that visitors obey posted signs and park regulations. The Balcony Caves are 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.
For the health and hygiene of people and park wildlife, visitors should only go to the bathroom in designated facilities, including restrooms located in the campground, portable toilets at Peaks View and Old Pinnacles, and pit toilets at Scout Peak and North Chalone Peak. 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.
Additional facilities and areas may close within Pinnacles National Park at any time for the health and safety of park visitors.
