Nonprofits Step Up to Keep National Parks Open Amid Government Shutdown

Sun Oct 19 2025 20:06:18 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

With the government shutdown impacting federal services, nonprofits across the country are stepping in to fund operations and keep national parks open, ensuring continued access for visitors.

During the ongoing government shutdown, nonprofits are stepping forward to raise funds and keep essential national parks operational. Organizations like Friends of Vicksburg National Military Park are pledging financial support, while others like Pacific Historic Parks are working to open landmarks like Pearl Harbor. As park visitors face closed facilities, these groups seek to protect natural and historical sites, ensuring they remain accessible for the enjoyment of the public.

DENVER (AP) — In the wake of the government shutdown, a Mississippi nonprofit has stepped in to support operations at the Vicksburg National Military Park, ensuring it remains open to the public.

This Civil War battlefield, crucial for understanding the struggle for control of the Mississippi River in 1863, reopened with the help of the Friends of Vicksburg National Military Park and Campaign, which is funding $2,000 a day for park operations during this shutdown period.

Executive Director Bess Averett highlighted the importance of protecting the park's integrity, noting that unstaffed parks are vulnerable to vandalism and illegal relic hunting.

Nonprofit organizations supporting various national parks are also engaging in similar efforts. For example, Pacific Historic Parks has taken measures to keep the Pearl Harbor National Memorial operational. They aim to cover the estimated $9,000 daily cost through appeals to local government and businesses.

Meanwhile, additional assistance is coming from groups like the Rocky Mountain Conservancy, which helps manage visitor engagement and amenities even as the designated park staff remains absent.

The U.S. Interior Department has directed parks to utilize existing revenues to manage basic services, but many facilities, such as visitor centers, remain closed, limiting access to educational resources.

Despite these challenges, some travelers are making the most of their visits. Families visiting Vicksburg express a desire to engage with the park's history, even if they face locks on key roads.

In light of various shutdowns leading to damage in national parks in previous years, advocacy groups are cautioning that park preservation should be prioritized to avoid any potential long-term effects on these national treasures.

Data show that states have previously pushed to fund national parks during shutdowns with substantial donations for continued staffing. This trend highlights the ongoing community support for these vital cultural landmarks.