Fairgrounds will open for displaced Yellowstone campers
Park super Cam Sholly says closures could last days, if not weeks
JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. — Closures in Yellowstone are expected to have a significant impact on visitors, especially those with overnight reservations at campgrounds and hotels.
For those in the Jackson area, help is on the way.
In coordination with the Town of Jackson, Jackson Police Department, Teton County, and the Teton County Sheriff’s Office, those impacted may spend the night at the Teton County Fairgrounds for self-contained camping. There is no water, sewer, or electric hook-ups or other amenities. Campfires are not allowed, and users are expected to clean-up after themselves and their pets.
The closure of Yellowstone National Park could last several days or more, so visitors are encouraged to plan accordingly. Temporary camping at the Teton County Fairgrounds will be available only tonight, June 13. After that, campers will have to secure other accommodations.
Jackson Police Department is onsite this afternoon to direct parking. The Teton County Fairgrounds is located at 305 W Snow King Drive in Jackson, Wyoming.
Statement for park superintendent Cam Sholly:
“Due to record flooding events in the park and more precipitation in the forecast, we have made the decision to close Yellowstone to all inbound visitation,” says superintendent Cam Sholly. “Our first priority has been to evacuate the northern section of the park where we have multiple road and bridge failures, mudslides and other issues.
“The community of Gardiner is currently isolated, and we are working with the county and State of Montana to provide necessary support to residents, who are currently without water and power in some areas.
“Due to predictions of higher flood levels in areas of the park’s southern loop, in addition to concerns with water and wastewater systems, we will begin to move visitors in the southern loop out of the park later today in coordination with our in-park business partners. We will not know timing of the park’s reopening until flood waters subside and we’re able to assess the damage throughout the park. It is likely that the northern loop will be closed for a substantial amount of time.
“I appreciate the efforts of the Yellowstone team and partners to safely evacuate areas of the park and of our gateway community partners who are helping us through this major event. We appreciate the support offered by the Department of Interior, National Park Service and the Montana and Wyoming governors.”
