The absence of park employees during a government shutdown places a greater responsibility on visitors to protect and respect this cherished natural treasure.  

If you’re planning to visit Shenandoah while park employees are furloughed, you will be the primary steward of the park, and it will be entirely your responsibility to ensure that your visit has a minimal impact on the environment and wildlife, and to keep yourself and other visitors safe.  

Before you decide on a visit, consider the following:   

   Can you follow all Leave No Trace principles?

• Plan Ahead and Prepare: Before your visit, research and plan your trip thoroughly. Be self-reliant and prepared for changing weather conditions, as park services may not be available to provide updates. 
• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to established trails and campsites to minimize your impact on the park’s delicate ecosystems. Off-trail hiking can cause significant harm to the environment. 
• Dispose of Waste Properly: Since trash collection services are suspended during a shutdown, pack out all waste, including food scraps, trash, and used toilet paper. Carry disposal bags and follow “pack it in, pack it out” rules. 
• Leave What You Find: Avoid picking plants, disturbing wildlife, or defacing rocks and trees. Preserve the park’s natural beauty for tomorrow’s visitors. 
• Minimize Campfire Impact: Campfires are not recommended during a shutdown due to limited fire management services. Use a camp stove for cooking, and if campfires are allowed, keep them small, use established fire rings, and burn only small sticks and twigs found on the ground. 
• Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a safe distance and do not feed them. Feeding wildlife can harm their health and disrupt their natural behaviors, and the park’s wildlife technicians will not be on hand to discourage potentially dangerous behaviors. 

Can you plan a safe visit and prepare for it?

• Emergency Preparedness: Given the absence of rangers and Search & Rescue services, ensure you have a map, compass, or GPS, and know how to use them. Let someone know your plans and expected return time. 
• First Aid: Carry a well-stocked first aid kit and know basic first aid skills. Minor injuries can become major issues without immediate attention. 
• Weather Awareness: Stay updated on weather forecasts and be prepared for sudden changes. Shenandoah’s elevation changes can result in unpredictable weather patterns. 

Cell Phone Coverage: Keep in mind that cell phone coverage may be limited in the park. Do not rely solely on your phone for navigation or communication.  

Can you recreate responsibly?

• Hiking and Camping: Stick to established trails and campsites, as off-trail activities can cause erosion and harm to wildlife habitats. 
• Photography and Wildlife Viewing: Use long lenses for wildlife photography to avoid disturbing animals. Keep a safe distance and use quiet, unobtrusive methods. 
• Respect Closure Areas: If certain areas of the park are closed during the shutdown, respect these closures. They may be in place to protect you, or the park’s sensitive resources.  

Final Word 

The absence of park employees during a government shutdown places greater responsibility on visitors. If you’re not ready to be the park’s caretaker for the day, choose another fall adventure. 

If you are ready, plan carefully, stay safe, and leave no trace—so that Shenandoah can be enjoyed for generations to come.