Temporary Closure of Covington Flats Area During Fourth of July Weekend

TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. - Joshua Tree National Park will temporarily close public access to the Covington Flats area from Thursday, July 2, 2026, to Monday, July 6, 2026, to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfire during the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

The area will reopen on Monday, July 6, 2026, following the holiday period beginning at 7 am.

In the past five years, Joshua Tree National Park has experienced five wildfires, all determined to be human caused. The closure is intended to protect one of the park's most important Joshua tree refugia areas during a period of elevated fire danger.

Current conditions present a heightened wildfire risk. Recent winter and spring precipitation produced abundant annual grasses that have since dried, creating a continuous bed of fine fuels capable of carrying fire rapidly across the landscape. These conditions combined with hot, dry weather and increased holiday visitation, create a greater risk of human-caused wildfires.

Most recently, the Eureka Fire burned 214 acres in the Covington Flats area in May 2025, killing Joshua trees and causing significant damage to some of the park's most important Joshua tree habitat. Following an investigation, it was determined to be human caused.

The 66-acre Black Rock Fire was caused by a backpacker who attempted to burn toilet paper after defecating in the backcountry. The individual reported the incident to park staff and was subsequently charged.

Joshua Tree National Park encourages visitors to properly dispose of human waste by using wag bags, which are available at park backcountry offices. Visitors should never attempt to burn toilet paper or other materials in the desert.

Recovery from wildfire impacts in desert ecosystems can take decades. As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, park managers are taking proactive steps to reduce the potential for another human-caused wildfire. Joshua Tree National Park remains under fire restrictions through October 1, 2026, unless otherwise modified by park management.

Visitors can help prevent wildfires by:
• Never using fireworks on public lands. Fireworks are always prohibited within the park.
• Properly extinguishing and disposing of smoking materials.
• Following all current fire restrictions.
• Remaining alert to activities that could spark a wildfire.
For current park conditions and fire restrictions, visit nps.gov/jotr.

nps.gov