As the government shutdown continues, national parks across the United States experience confusion and partial closures, raising concerns among visitors and conservation advocates. Joshua Tree National Park has become a focal point of anxiety, while the Great Smoky Mountains National Park sees mixed messages with some areas remaining open. Many parks are still accessible, but without necessary services, leaving visitors at risk. Advocates warn that the shutdown may lead to public lands falling into disarray, emphasizing the need for immediate congressional action. Some parks, like Acadia, are initially unaffected, yet all national parks are navigating operational challenges, with limited staff and resources amid ongoing uncertainty.