Which National Parks Are Open During the Government Shutdown — and How Junior Rangers Can Still Earn Badges Online
Posted by Dream America on November 9, 2025
Some park gates may close — but the spirit of exploration stays open.
With the U.S. government shutdown now stretching beyond a month, travelers and families are wondering what this means for National Parks — and for all the Junior Rangers eager to keep earning their badges.
The good news? Curiosity doesn’t depend on funding. There are still ways to learn, explore, and connect with nature, both online and outdoors.
Which National Parks Are Still Open?
While many National Parks have scaled back services, some remain partially accessible to visitors — often without staffed facilities. Always check local alerts before visiting.
✅ Partially Open Parks (Self-Guided Access):
- Yellowstone National Park — North and West entrances may reopen for limited snowcoach travel; roads and facilities restricted.
- Grand Canyon National Park — South Rim open to visitors, but visitor centers and ranger programs limited.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park — Roads and trails generally open; expect reduced maintenance and no visitor services.
- Zion National Park — Shuttle service paused, but hiking access remains.
- Everglades National Park — Boat ramps and some trails open; limited staff.
✅ Alternatives While Waiting:
- State Parks & Forest Service Lands — Most are unaffected by federal shutdowns and are fantastic alternatives for weekend adventures.
- National Wildlife Refuges — Many remain open for wildlife viewing and light hiking.
Tip: Always bring your own water, snacks, and maps. Many restrooms, trash services, and information centers may be closed.
How Junior Rangers Can Still Earn Badges Online
The National Park Service has dozens of official virtual Junior Ranger programs that can be completed from home — perfect for kids, families, or classrooms.
Here are some of the best:
Full List of Virtual Programs:
https://www.nps.gov/kids/become-a-junior-ranger.htm
You can print activities, complete them at home, and mail or email them to the park to receive a badge!
Keep the Adventure Alive from Home
Even when parks are closed, you can still:
✅ Watch ranger talks on the NPS YouTube Channel
✅ Read National Park ebooks or virtual tours
✅ Build your own “Park Passport” scrapbook
✅ Use your Junior Ranger Banner or Tote to organize badges, maps, and notes for your next adventure
Final Thought
Even during a shutdown, nature continues — the rivers still flow, the stars still shine, and your next adventure is waiting.
Because being a Junior Ranger isn’t about where you are — it’s about how you care.
♻️ Explore. Learn. Protect.
— Dream America USA Team
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