Now officially the longest shutdown in U.S. history, the ongoing government shutdown has affected many aspects of tourism and travel around the country. One group of tourist destinations has been at the center of the government shutdown drama: national parks. As government-funded entities staffed by federal employees, every aspect of national parks has been affected by the shutdown.

More than two-thirds of National Park Service employees were furloughed at the start of the shutdown, while most of the remaining staff are working without pay. The reduced staff has led to an increase in reckless behavior in places like Yosemite . Behind the drama, however, the national parks continue to be a source of positivity and cooperation.

Running on willpower and local support, national parks conti

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