Mojave National Preserve closures during government shutdown
The Mojave National Preserve has closed the parking lot and area around the Historic Kelso Depot, where the visitor center and public restrooms are located, for the duration of the government shutdown. The closure began January 4 in response to health and safety concerns due to ongoing issues with trash, vandalism, and resource damage.
The restrooms were a popular stop for both preserve visitors, and Las Vegas traffic taking the route through the preserve. They were the only public restrooms within the preserve other than vault toilets at the Kelso Dunes, and Hole in the Wall, Mid Hills, and Black Canyon Equestrian and Group campgrounds. The preserve urges visitors to use restrooms in Amboy or Baker when visiting.
No notice was provided by the Mojave National Preserve on the status of campgrounds and whether they were open or closed to the public during the shutdown. A portion of Ivanpah Road, from the intersection with Morning Star Mine Road to the railroad tracks, has been closed for shoulder repair work. The road is scheduled to reopen when repairs are completed. It is unknown whether the work has continued during the shutdown.