Because of recent vandalism in the Rattlesnake Canyon area of Joshua Tree National Park, the park service has closed all access to, and use of, the area. Since January, the day use and canyon area of Rattlesnake Canyon have been defaced with graffiti, both scratched into the rocks, and spray-painted on. The vandalism started as a few markings, but due to social media, individuals have felt the need to add to the vandalism of this scenic canyon. The continued malicious desecration of the national park has now impacted archeological sites. Limits to fiscal and personnel resources restrict the immediate remediation of the area. Therefore to prevent continued damage to scenic, natural, and cultural resources, the entire day use area of Rattlesnake Canyon—from the day use closure gate to the top of the canyon—is closed to public entry until at least April 30, at which time, the closure will be re-evaluated. The Park Service urges visitors to report acts of vandalism or suspicious activity to park rangers. Photos of the vandalism can be seen with this story at KCDZFM.com.
