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The Desert Sun

For anyone wanting to get out to Joshua Tree National Park this weekend, keep in mind the 49 Palms Oasis is now closed to visitors due to extremely hot and dry conditions.

Hikers will be allowed approximately one-half mile on the trail before signage closes off the route into the oasis.

“While we hesitate to close a popular hiking area in the park, dwindling water sources make it necessary. Desert bighorn sheep will not come down to drink if visitors are in the area,” said Michael Vamstad, a wildlife ecologist for Joshua Tree National Park, in a statement.

If the park determines the closure is being violated, the entire area will be closed to the public. The closure will remain in effect until further notice and reopening will depend on the levels of significant rain fall.

Joshua Tree has also closed the following campgrounds, due to hot weather: Cottonwood Campground (Loop B), Belle Campground, Ryan Campground, Indian Cove Campground family sites (West Loop), Black Rock Campground, sites (49-60 and 69-99).

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