The federal government shutdown has lasted nearly one whole month. During this time, the National Park Service has been unable to operate as normal, and there will be an impact on the C&O Canal National Historical Park and its resources. The park has been unable to collect entrance fees or sell park passes for the month of October. While Great Falls is the only access point in the C&O Canal with an entry fee, the park has averaged over $1M annually in fee revenue over the past few years. Roughly 30% of total visitation to the C&O Canal occurs during the fall months, which means the park has already lost significant fee-based revenue, 80% of which directly funds maintenance projects and improvements to the visitor experience. Critical maintenance for towpath access, safety, and continuity, as well as education programs, natural resource conservation, and historic preservation are at risk.
Have you visited the park in October, or just love the C&O Canal? In lieu of an entrance fee, you can help the park by donating the value of your entrance fee or more to the C&O Canal Trust. Your donation will help fund essential projects and programs in the C&O Canal and help protect our local national park today, and preserve it for the future.
Can I still visit the park during the government shutdown?
Visitors can still make a trip to the C&O Canal, however, they should not expect services typically provided by the National Park Service to be available. Visitor centers and other NPS-staffed facilities, as well as routine visitor services, will not be available. All visitors are urged to practice safety in the park and plan ahead. Be a good park steward by recreating responsibly and practicing Leave No Trace principles, respecting cultural and natural resources.
Information regarding the Department of Interior’s Operations in the Absence of Appropriations can be found here: https://www.doi.gov/shutdown
How does this impact my lockhouse reservation?
The C&O Canal Trust’s staff are currently working remotely.
Canal Quarters will continue to operate under C&O Canal Trust management. Guests are advised to practice safety when visiting the park, as the National Park Service’s visitor services will not be available.
You can still book a stay in the park! Funds from your lockhouse stay directly support the preservation of these historic structures.
Will bathrooms be open?
Portable toilets and limited restroom facilities will remain open. However, this status cannot be guaranteed while the National Park Service is unable to operate as normal. Some facilities may not be available due to health or safety concerns, so visitors are encouraged to plan ahead. As a general rule, if a facility or area is locked or otherwise inaccessible during non business hours, it will be locked or secured for the duration of the lapse in funding.
Are Trust Events Still Happening?
C&O Canal Trust-led events will continue as scheduled. If the event is scheduled by another organizer, please contact them directly.
How can I support the C&O Canal during the shutdown?
Please consider making a donation to the C&O Canal Trust, the official nonprofit philanthropic partner of the C&O Canal National Historical Park. Your support directly helps with beautification, conservation, education, and preservation initiatives in the park. We remain committed to supporting the park’s vital projects during the shutdown. When federal funding is restored, we look forward to continuing to work with our park partner to ensure the C&O Canal remains beautiful, safe, and welcoming for visitors today and for future generations.
Another good way to support the park is by practicing responsible recreation and Leave No Trace principles while visiting the park, and consider volunteering with the C&O Canal Trust during a scheduled Trust event.
Photo credits: Susan Petro