Thirsty bees invade, forcing part of Joshua Tree National Park to close, rangers say

Thirsty bees have prompted Joshua Tree National Park rangers to temporarily close a visitor center and campground.

The increased bee activity forced the closure of the Cottonwood Visitor Center, parking area, restrooms and Cottonwood Campground, rangers said in a Tuesday, Aug. 20, news release.

“In the summer, water becomes scarce and bees seek water sources just like our other park wildlife,” rangers said. “However, this can include condensation from air conditioners, visitor sweat, and bathrooms.”

Rangers closed the center and campground for safety and to reduce the available water, inducing the bees to move on, officials said.

The Cottonwood Visitor Center is the “gateway to many hiking experiences” in the park, the Joshua Tree National Park Association said.

The park, established in 1994, covers 792,623 acres of deserts and mountains. It is about a 130-miles drive east from Los Angeles.

This story was originally published August 22, 2024 at 10:01 AM with the headline "Thirsty bees invade, forcing part of Joshua Tree National Park to close, rangers say."