Death Valley in the 1930s

Road Workers & Guidebook Writers put the National Monument on the Map
by Cheri Rae

During the Great Depression of the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps built roads and campgrounds in the then-new Death Valley National Monument while the Federal Writers Project produced a guidebook.

Park Regulations

*Camp only in designated sites; roadside camping is prohibited.

*Collection, gathering, cutting, or disturbing plants, rocks, or any natural or         
historic feature is not allowed.

*Please dispose of trash in the receptacles provided and place a bucket under
 your sink drain.

*Do not drive off established roads.

*Pets must be leashed at all times. They are not allowed in the visitor center or
 other public buildings, or in the backcountry.

*This is a wildlife sanctuary. Carrying firearms that are not cased or otherwise
 rendered inoperative is prohibited.

*Shooting firearms, even at targets, is not allowed.
Safety

*Do not enter mine shafts, tunnels or old buildings.

*Watch for rattlesnakes, especially near old structures or vegetated areas near
 water.

*Be alert for flash floods when it looks stormy.

*All animals in the park are wild. They often carry diseases, and they can bite.
Do not feed or disturb them.

*Always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.

*Please be sure that your car is in good mechanical condition and that your fuel 
tank is full before you begin each day’s tour. Within the park, gasoline is sold
only at Furnace Creek, Scotty’s Castle, and Stovepipe Wells.

*Park roads are designed for your enjoyment of the scenery, not for speed.
Please observe posted speed limits, and wear your seat belt.

*Be aware that hot weather hiking can be risky. Carry at lease one gallon
of water per person per day of hiking.

*Make your visit to Death Valley a safe, enjoyable one!

Campgrounds

*Death Valley National Park operates nine campgrounds throughout the park, with a total of 1500 campsites. Expect periods of heavy use from October through April, especially during the Death Valley ‘49ers Encampment  during early November.