As fears of a government shutdown loom, numerous impacts on national parks and local communities across the U.S. are being highlighted. Former national park superintendents are advocating for the closure of parks if funding expires, warning that keeping them open could lead to chaos and potential harm to the parks themselves. California residents are bracing for various disruptions, including effects on Social Security and local economies, while parks such as Acadia and Yosemite prepare for potential closures. In Utah, state authorities pledge to keep national parks open amid the uncertainty, contrasting with concerns that other national parks may suffer if the shutdown proceeds. The pressing question arises: how will the anticipated government stalemate affect national park accessibility and the surrounding economies?