The lapse of federal appropriations and the subsequent partial shutdown of government agencies has forced the closure of the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site in Kiowa County according to Acting Superintendent Janet Frederick. She states the closure of the site is for the safety of visitors and park resources.

The National Park Service is part of the United States Department of Interior – one of the agencies impacted by the shutdown.

Many other national park sites across the country will remain as accessible as possible while still following laws and procedures that apply during shutdowns. At those locations, park roads, lookouts, trails and open-air memorials will remain accessible to visitors. Emergency and rescue services will be limited.

The “Find a Park” feature at www.nps.gov is available to locate parks that remain available during the shutdown. NPS social media accounts, email, and other services will not be monitored until funding is restored. Addition updates for impacts to the Department of Interior will be posted at www.doi.gov/shutdown.