Kurt Repanshek

A government shutdown this weekend could force National Parks to close and block vital disaster relief funding, as Congress struggles to reach a budget agreement.

During the 35-day government closure that began in December 2018, vandalism and damage was reported at some parks. By Kurt Repanshek This story was originally published by National Parks Traveler.

Editor's note: This updates that, in the event of a government shutdown, national park will provide visitor services through Sunday.

Just a handful of days remain in the National Parks Traveler's year-end fundraising drive. Please support our coverage to keep you informed on all things related to national parks and protected areas.

Some stories just deserve another read. Here, in no particular order, are some we think are deserving of that.

Kīlauea volcano at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park began erupting early Monday/USGS webcam

This photo of the December 23, 2024, eruption was taken from a closed area within Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park/USGS, N. Deligne

Alaska's governor has sent the Trump transition team a list of priorities he wants tackled/State of Alaska

Fighting bull elephant seals, NMFS Permit No. 21425, Point Reyes National Seashore / NPS-PRNSA-Aiko Goldston

Author Kevin Fedarko appears on the National Parks Traveler's podcast Sunday to discuss his latest book, A Walk In The Park.