Superintendent's Compendium

PART 1 GENERAL PROVISIONS

36 CFR §1.5 – VISITING HOURS, PUBLIC USE LIMITS, CLOSURES, AND AREA DESIGNATIONS FOR SPECIFIC USES OR ACTIVITIES

(a)(1) The following visiting hours, public use limits, and closures are established:

Visiting Hours:

The Lehman Caves Visitor Center, Great Basin Visitor Center, and Lehman Caves are closed to visitation on the following Holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
The Lehman Caves Visitor Center is open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm year-round, with extended hours in the summer as posted at the Visitor Center.
The Great Basin Visitor Center is open Mid-May through October.

These facilities are closed during three federal holidays when park staff are not on duty. Hours of operation may be extended during peak visitation as staffing levels permit. Visitor Centers may open or close earlier or later in the year due to weather conditions or staffing levels.

Public Use Limits -- Pursuant to §1.5(d) to implement a public use limit, the Superintendent may establish a permit, registration, or reservations system:

A camping permit for Baker Lake and Johnson Lake is required.

Camping and public use is negatively impacting the resources and natural landscape around Baker Lake and Johnson Lake. In order to collect data on the use of these two areas, as well as to better educate the public of responsible behaviors in these areas, a camping permit is required.

The camping permit can be obtained at the Lehman Caves Visitor Center. Campers are required to have the permit in their possession while camping. For groups, only one permit is required, but all group members must be accounted for in the permit application for data collection purposes

The Upper Lehman Group Picnic Area located in the Upper Lehman Campground is available for group use from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm daily. Groups are limited to 50 people maximum without a permit. Larger groups can request a special use permit to reserve the area.

Group size is limited at the Upper Lehman Picnic Area to facilitate groups’ ability to utilize the area. Group size is limited due to limited parking, limited number of tables, a single cooking area, and to protect park resources.

Grey Cliffs Campground occupancy limits are listed in the table below. Group sites, above the 16-person maximum, can be reserved during the summer season (normally Memorial Day weekend through September) when Baker Creek Road is open.

Grey Cliffs/ Group Sites	Maximum 16 Persons	Maximum 8 Persons
Loop A	Site 5	Sites 1-4 and 6-10
Loop B	Closed for Administrative Use	Closed for Administrative Use
Loop C	Sites 1 & 2	Site 3

Group size limits have been established for these areas to protect park resources and due to limited size and type of facilities available at each location.

Back-country camping group size is limited to a maximum of 12 people without a Special Use Permit.

Group size is limited in the back country to protect park resources. Due to the creation of social trails and commonly used back country camping areas, size limits are imposed to reduce the impacts.

Closures:

Launching, landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Great Basin National Park is prohibited except as approved in writing by the superintendent.
- Definition: The term "unmanned aircraft” means a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device and the associated operational elements and components that are required for the pilot or system operator in command to operate or control the device (such as cameras, sensors communication links). This term includes all types of devices that meet this definition (e.g., model airplanes, quadcopters, drones) that are used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce.

Solitude and scenic values have been identified as fundamental resources and values of Great Basin National Park in the park’s foundation document. Unmanned aircraft produce unreasonable noise and impacts to the view shed which are incompatible with these fundamental resources and values.

All caves located within Great Basin National Park are closed to access without a cave permit. Entry into Lehman Caves is controlled under the existing permit system, administered at the Lehman Caves Visitor Center. Visitors to Lehman Caves are required to undergo decontamination if they have entered another cave or underground mine since May 1^st, 2010. Visitors to Lehman Caves are required to abide by all instructions provided by tour guides as part of their permit. Entry is controlled under existing permit system for other caves within the Park.

Closure of caves within Great Basin National Park is required to protect sensitive resources in those caves and to assist in preventing the spread of White Nose Syndrome (WNS) in native bat populations. Decontamination requirements are in place to prevent the introduction of WNS. Little Muddy Cave is closed from April 1^st to October 1^st because atmospheric testing has shown that the oxygen level during that period is below the safe allowable limit. The safe oxygen limit of 19.5% is an established OSHA standard for respiratory protection and safety (29 CFR §1910.134)

The operation of off-road vehicles, commonly known as All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) or Off Highway Vehicles (OHVs), is prohibited within Great Basin National Park. “Off road motor vehicle” is defined by Executive Order Number 11644 (37 Federal Register 2887.)

The superintendent has determined that the use of off-road motor vehicles within the park is inconsistent with the mission of the park and other visitor pursuits and is further prohibited to protect the fragile resources of the park and ensure visitor safety. This closure does not apply to administrative use for the purposes of fire control, search and rescue, law enforcement operations, resource management activities, and maintenance when approved by the superintendent.

Bicycles and Electronic Bicycles (e-bikes), whether ridden or walked, are prohibited on all roads that are closed to public vehicular traffic, all trails, administrative paths, and off road. Electronic Bicycles are allowed in all areas that traditional bicycles are allowed, and are prohibited in all areas that traditional bicycles are prohibited

Bicycles are prohibited from the above-mentioned areas due to the narrow and/or winding nature of the trails and off-road areas within Great Basin National Park. Bicycles are prohibited in these areas to protect the fragile resources of the park and ensure visitor safety.

Electronic Bicycles or e-bikes are "e-bikes" shall mean "low-speed electric bicycle" as defined by 15 U.S.C. § 2085 and falling within one of the following classifications:

i.) "Class 1 electric bicycle" shall mean an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour;
"Class 2 electric bicycle" shall mean an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle, and that is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour; and
ii.) "Class 3 electric bicycle" shall mean an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of28 miles per hour.

It is prohibited to burn, gather, or possess any Bristlecone Pine (Pinus longaeva) wood within or from the park.

Ancient Bristlecones pine trees are located throughout the park. They serve as important scientific tools, especially in paleo-climatological studies. Since the age of a piece of Bristlecone pine wood cannot be determined without scientific study, all wood must be protected in order to protect potentially important specimens.

It is prohibited to climb on or hang from Bristlecone Pine trees.

Ancient Bristlecones pine trees are located throughout the park. Since the age of a Bristlecone pine tree cannot be determined without scientific study, all trees must be protected in order to protect potentially important specimens, and the public.

It is prohibited to construct fire rings anywhere within the park.

Designated fire rings have been provided in areas where it is safe to have a fire. Constructed fire rings cause unsightly distractions to natural resources and encourage future use in areas where it may not be safe to have a fire.

It is prohibited to enter into any area designated as being closed to the public. These areas may include but are not limited to park water tanks and treatment facilities, sewage treatment facilities, construction or storage areas, collection areas for public water systems, all roads leading into government housing areas, and service roads.

These closures are in place in order to protect government equipment, to protect the public water supply, and to protect the public from hazards. Roadways leading to government housing areas are closed as they are narrow and not designed for heavy traffic. Limiting traffic is in these areas provides park residents with privacy and maintains a residential like area. It also provides a safer environment for resident’s children who might be playing in the area.

The following roads are open to public motor vehicles:
Park Entrance Rd from NV Hwy 488 to the Lehman Caves Visitor Center
Picnic area road from the Lehman Caves Visitor Center parking lot.
Scenic Drive from Park Entrance Rd to Wheeler Peak Campground
Baker Creek Rd
Baker Narrows Rd from Baker Creek Road to the park boundary
- Pole Canyon Trailhead parking area
All roads accessing campsites in the following developed campgrounds
- Baker Creek, Grey Cliffs, Lower Lehman, Upper Lehman, Wheeler Peak
Mather Point Parking area off the Scenic Drive
Strawberry Creek Rd from the park boundary to the Blue Canyon/Strawberry Creek Trailhead parking area
- Vehicle operation is permitted into the campsites along the improved roads
Snake Creek Rd from the park boundary to the Johnson Lake Trailhead.
- Shoshone Trailhead extension is closed to vehicle traffic
- Posted campsites may be accessed by motor vehicle. All others are walk-in only.
Mount Washington Rd from the park boundary to the parking area for access to Mt Washington Peak and to the parking area for Highland route access.
- Access to the peak from the parking area is by foot only
The Dry Canyon Road: NW of Mount Washington between Dry Canyon and Box Canyon
Kious Basin Rd from the Water Tank Rd to Can Young Canyon

Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive and Baker Creek Road, Strawberry Creek, and Snake Creek Canyon are closed to public vehicular traffic beyond the locked gates during winter months.

These closures are generally in effect during the winter months from late November through April. Closing and opening dates will be posted on the park website at www.nps.gov/grba. These roads are closed due to snow accumulations and/or muddy conditions. There is no winter maintenance on these roads to keep them passable to vehicular traffic. Trash collection services, water and other visitor services are not available along these road corridors during winter months. Unlimited vehicular access on an unmaintained road during winter months can adversely affect the condition of the road surface, damaging it, and increasing both the time and cost needed to recondition the road in the spring.

Strawberry Creek is closed to camping.

The Strawberry Creek area was affected by wildfire in the summer of 2016. There are many hazardous areas from burned and falling trees. This is area is designated open for Day Use Only.

Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive is closed to single vehicles or trailers over 24 feet in length on Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive past Upper Lehman Creek Campground

Due to constrained space and to maximize visitor access and enjoyment, large vehicles, trailers, or any towed vehicle are prohibited.

PART 2 RESOURCE PROTECTION, PUBLIC USE, AND RECREATION

(a)(2) The following areas are designated for a specific use or activity and/or the following conditions or restrictions are imposed on a specific use or activity:

Areas Designated for a Specific Use or Activity:

Camping Areas:

Please refer to §2.10 of this document for detailed camping area designations.

Technical Rock Climbing

The installation of climbing bolts, bolt hangers, pitons, and other permanently installed hardware is prohibited.
Glue, epoxy, cement, or any other adhesive may not be used to attach or reinforce hand and/or footholds for climbing.
Chipping or enhancing hand and/or footholds is not allowed while climbing.
Vegetation may not be removed for the purpose of climbing.
Climbing is not permitted within 100 feet of any archeological, cultural, or historical site.
Fixed lines may not be attached to man-made structures.
A fixed rope line may not be left unattended anywhere within the park.
Cords, rope and climbing equipment may not be placed in a horizontal position from natural vegetation or park structures for purposes such as “slack lines”.

In order to protect geologic features and natural resources in the park, the installation of permanent hardware/adhesives or to alter the rock face or destruction of vegetation is prohibited.

Slacklining is defined as walking or riding on a rope or other line that is anchored between trees or any other natural features. Height of the rope above the ground is immaterial.

Passenger Carrying Busses and other temporarily parked vehicles

Engines must be shut down when not underway.

The idling of engines adds unnecessary exhaust fumes to the air and diminishes the enjoyment by visitors of the peace and tranquility of the park.

Mask Wearing Requirements
When the COVID-19 Community Level is LOW or MEDIUM in the county or all the counties where the park is located based on data provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), individuals are not required to wear masks.

When the COVID-19 Community Level is HIGH in the county or all the counties where the park is located based on data provided by the CDC, all individuals over the age of two must wear masks, regardless of vaccination status, in all common areas and shared workspaces in buildings owned, leased, or otherwise controlled by the National Park Service, including, but not limited to, park visitor centers, administrative offices, lodges, gift shops and restaurants.

Masks must cover the nose and mouth and fit snugly around the nose and chin with no large gaps around the sides of the face. Masks not designed to be protective, masks with ventilation valves, and face shields do not meet the requirement.

Regardless of the COVID-19 Community Level, individuals may wear masks if they choose to do so. Where a state, local, tribal, or territorial government where the park is located imposes more protective mask-wearing requirements than those indicated by the COVID-19 Community Level, individuals must follow those more protective requirements within the park. More protective state, local, tribal, or territorial mask-wearing requirements are hereby adopted as federal requirements in all units of the National Park System located within that state, locality, area subject to a federally recognized Indian tribe’s regulatory jurisdiction, or territory, regardless of a particular park’s jurisdictional status.

Additionally, all individuals must wear masks in or on public transportation conveyances and transportation hubs/facilities, to the extent required by current orders or directives issued by the CDC, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), or other federal agencies with jurisdiction over those conveyances or areas. As of March 4, 2022, CDC and TSA orders or directives require all individuals regardless of vaccination status to wear masks in indoor areas of all forms of public transportation conveyances, including busses, trains, and boats/ferries, and in the indoor premises of transportation hubs/facilities. Individuals are not required to wear masks while outdoors on conveyances or while outdoors on the premises of transportation hubs/facilities.

Covid-19 Community Level information is available to the public at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/covid-by-county.html
Great Basin National Park is located entirely in White Pine County, Nevada.

36 CFR §2.1 – PRESERVATION OF NATURAL, CULTURAL AND ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES

(a)(4) Using or possessing wood gathered from within the park area is prohibited, except that dead wood on the ground may be collected for use as fuel for campfires within the park in the following areas:

Any area in the park is open to collecting dead wood on the ground, except for Bristlecone Pine.
The collection or use of Bristlecone Pine wood in any form is prohibited throughout the entire park.

Under, §2.1(a) collecting natural materials from the park is generally prohibited. However, pursuant to §2.1(c), the following fruits, nuts, berries or unoccupied seashells may be gathered by hand for personal use or consumption, in accordance with the noted size, quantity, collection sites and/or possession and consumption restrictions:

Pinyon Pine cones and nuts (Pinus monophylla) in the amount of 25 pounds of nuts or 3 bags of cones (each bag no larger than 2 ft. by 3 ft. when laid flat) per household per year.
Fruit in the historic Lehman Orchard may be picked for personal, non-commercial consumption.
Other fruits, nuts, and berries may be collected for non-commercial use subject to the following limits: 2-quart limit per family per day.
Only freestanding ladders may be used for picking. Cutting, pulling, shaking, or climbing trees to obtain fruits, nuts or berries is prohibited.

The Superintendent has determined that the gathering or consumption of these items will not adversely affect park wildlife or the reproduction potential of any plant species or otherwise adversely affect park resources. It has also been determined that limiting the amount of fruit removed from the trees will provide a harvest experience to the greatest number of visitors. If future monitoring indicates that such gathering or consumption is likely to cause adverse effects to park resources, then the authorization for this consumptive use will be terminated. Use of these items for any purpose other than personal consumption is specifically prohibited

36 CFR §2.2 - WILDLIFE PROTECTION

(d) The following conditions and procedures for transporting lawfully taken wildlife through the park area are in place:

Park residents may transport legally taken wildlife from the main park entrance (Highway 488) directly to their residence.
Hunters using the Mount Washington Road can transport lawfully taken game when crossing park lands.
Hunters traveling by foot or pack animal on the former Decathon Canyon Road, within the park, may transport legally taken wildlife by foot or pack animal only on the former road from the BLM immediately outside the park, across the park to the terminus of the Decathon Canyon Road within the BLM administered Highland Ridge Wilderness area. No vehicles are allowed on the former road within the park or beyond the terminus of the Decathon Canyon Road within the Highland Ridge Wilderness area.
Wildlife must be properly tagged in accordance with state game laws.
Any person transporting wildlife must possess a hunting license.

(e) The following areas are closed to the viewing of wildlife with the use of an artificial light:

All viewing of wildlife with artificial lights is prohibited on Great Basin National Park lands unless permitted by the Superintendent as an allowable condition of a research permit. This includes all light sources such as infrared, black lights, and flash photography.

36 CFR §2.10 – CAMPING AND FOOD STORAGE

(a) Camping is allowed in the following designated sites or areas and is subject to the following established conditions:

Developed Campgrounds/Campsites:

Baker Creek Campground
Upper Lehman Campground
Lower Lehman Campground
Grey Cliffs Campground (Loop A and C)
Snake Creek Canyon
Monkey Rock Group Campsite
Pinnacle Group Campsite
Squirrel Springs Campsites
Eagle Peak Campsites
Walk-in Sites at Snake Creek Trailhead

In developed campgrounds/campsites the following conditions apply:

Individual sites are limited to 2 vehicles, 8 people and 3 tents per campsite, unless otherwise posted.
Tents must be placed within 30 ft. of the sites picnic table and/or fire ring
Quiet hours, including generators, are between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.
Campsite fees, where charged, must be paid within one-half hour of arrival
Checkout time is 11:00 a.m.
Maximum continuous stay in any campground or campsite is 14 days
Designated handicap sites are reserved for disabled individuals, persons recognized by the Americans with Disabilities Act, or any group of visitors having at least one disabled member. Sites are to remain accessible to the above referenced individuals at all times.

Vehicle Size restrictions and access:

Large vehicles and RVs camping in Baker Creek Campground are encouraged to use the lower portion of the campground, turning left at the entrance.
Vehicles in excess of 32 feet in total length including any towed trailers are not allowed in the upper portion of Baker Creek Campground beyond the designated closure sign

Designated Group Campsites:

Grey Cliffs Group Campsites Loop C and site #5 in Loop A.

In group campgrounds/campsites the following conditions apply:

Groups cannot exceed a maximum group size of 16 persons per site.
Sites are available for reservation through www.recreation.gov.
Generators may only by used between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.
Tents must be placed within 30 ft. of the site’s picnic tables and/or fire ring.
Checkout time is 11:00 a.m.
Maximum continuous stay in any campground is 14 days.

Snake Creek Canyon Campsites:

Group size is limited to 2 vehicles, 8 people, and 3 tents per site.
Tents must be placed within 30 ft. of the site’s picnic table and/or fire ring.
Generators may only be used between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.
There are currently no fees
Checkout time is 11:00 a.m.
Maximum continuous stay in any campsite is 14 days.

Non-designated or backcountry camping is permitted with the following exceptions and restrictions or conditions:

No camping is permitted within the Wheeler Peak Day Use Area, Strawberry Creek Day Use Area, or the Lexington Arch Day Use Area as depicted on the Great Basin National Park Official Map and Guide which includes but is not limited to all areas within ¼ mile of the following trails:
- Alpine Lakes Loops
- Bristlecone Glacier
- Wheeler Peak
- Lexington Arch
Camping in the backcountry is allowed except that campsites must be:
- Located at least ¼ mile from the nearest public road, service road, building, water or waste-water treatment facility, designated campground, trailhead, or other developed area.
- At least 100 feet from a flowing stream, spring, lake, or other natural body of open water.
- At least 100 feet from any cultural or archaeological site such as a historic mine site, cabin, rock shelter, or pictograph site.
- At least 100 feet from the nearest designated trail.
- Not otherwise posted as being closed.
Camping is prohibited in all parking areas, at trailheads and on or along all other roads within the limits of the National Park boundary.
Group size is limited to 12 persons. Larger groups must split up into smaller groups within these limits and must camp at least ¼ mile apart. Larger groups may also request an exception to these limits from the Superintendent under the terms of a Special Use Permit.
Pets are not allowed.
Maximum continuous stay at any campsite is 14 days. After 14 days, campers must relocate at least ½ mile from previous site.
Backcountry campers are strongly encouraged to fill out a free backcountry registration form at park visitor centers to document their plans, provide for their safety, and assist the park in monitoring backcountry use.
Backcountry campers are required to follow Leave No Trace practices and properly dispose of trash, refuse and human waste. Pack it in, pack it out.

(b)(3) Camping within 25 feet of a fire hydrant or main road, or within 100 feet of a flowing stream, river or body of water is prohibited, except in the following areas and under the following conditions:

All developed campsites in Snake Creek Canyon, Lower Lehman Campground, Upper Lehman Campground, Grey Cliffs Campground, and Baker Creek Campground.

(b)(7) Connecting to a utility system is prohibited, except as designated below:

At the dumping station located near the Lehman Cave’s Visitor Center after required fees have been paid. Utility systems are prohibited from being tampered with in any way, including removal of hardware or hook ups.

(d) Conditions for the storage of food are in effect as designated below:

All unattended food, garbage or cooking equipment must be sealed in a vehicle or a solid, non-pliable, animal-resistant container.

36 CFR 2.13 – FIRES

(a)(1) The lighting or maintaining of fires is prohibited, except in the following areas and/or receptacles, and under the conditions noted:

Designated Areas:

Open fires are permitted only in designated fire rings, grills, or grates while in developed campgrounds, designated primitive campsites and employee residential areas. Self-contained gas and charcoal grills are allowed. Charcoal must be fully extinguished with water and removed from the park or disposed of in a garbage receptacle.
Fires are prohibited above 10,000 feet. Backcountry users may only use portable stoves for cooking above 10,000 feet.

Receptacles Allowed:

Where provided in developed campgrounds, designated primitive campsites and in picnic area fire rings, grates or grills must be used.
The construction of new fire rings is prohibited throughout the park.
In the backcountry, fires may only be constructed upon and in areas of bare soil with a diameter of at least 10 ft. or in a shallow snow pit clear of vegetation for a diameter of at least 10 ft. in order to prevent escape and damage to resources. Clearing of vegetation is prohibited. Metal fire pans or fire blankets may also be used in such areas for additional protection. Fires must not exceed two feet in diameter.

Established Conditions for Fires:

All flammable material must be contained within the perimeter of designated fire rings
All flammable material must not be so large that it extends above the rim of designated fire rings

(b) Fires must be extinguished according to the following conditions:

All fires must be rendered completely out and cold to the touch by dowsing with water.

(c) During periods of high fire danger, the following areas of the park are closed to the lighting or maintaining of a fire.

During high fire danger, fires may be restricted throughout the park.

36 CFR §2.14 – SANITATION AND REFUSE

(a)(2) Using park refuse receptacles or facilities for dumping household, commercial or industrial refuse is prohibited, except under the following conditions:

Residents in the park may use the provided dumpsters for household waste.

(a)(8) In developed areas, the disposal of human body waste is prohibited, except at the following designated locations or fixtures provided for that purpose:

At the dumping station located near the Lehman Cave’s Visitor Center after required fees have been paid.

(b) Conditions for the disposal, containerization, or carryout of human body waste have been established as follows:

Human body waste must be bagged and carried out of any cave and disposed of in an appropriate receptacle.
In the backcountry and other undeveloped areas, the disposal of human body waste should be buried in a hole 4-6 inches deep in mineral soil. Toilet paper must be packed out and disposed of in trash cans.
Human body waste, other than toilet paper, is prohibited from being placed within park trash cans or dumpsters and must be disposed of in park restroom facilities or the RV dump station located near the Lehman Caves Visitor Center.
RVs are not allowed to dump, pump, or dispose of human waste in park restroom facilities.

36 CFR §2.15 – PETS

(a)(1) Possessing pets in public buildings, public transportation vehicles, swimming beaches, and the following structures and/or areas is prohibited:

All caves and all trails, except the Lexington Arch Trail, the trail from the residence area to Baker Creek Road.
All public buildings, including Visitor Centers, Gift Shops, and Café.
All backcountry areas.

(a)(5) Pet excrement must be disposed of in accordance with the following conditions:

Pet excrement must be disposed of in a trash bin by the person responsible for the pet.

(e) Pets may be kept by park residents under the following conditions:

Seasonal employees in government housing cannot keep pets on the premises.
Pet owners must comply with all pet requirements listed in the park pet policy (Office Order GRBA-2).
Pet owners must comply with all applicable county and state regulations pertaining to pets.
All pets must be inoculated per state and county regulations and will wear tags identifying their owner when in public locations.
Wildlife shall not be kept in violation of state or federal law.
The keeping of exotic animals with potential to survive within Great Basin National Park should they escape is prohibited.
The keeping of farm animals, which includes but is not limited to horses, cows, burros, goats, or potbellied pigs, is prohibited.
Excessive noise or offensive conditions created by any pet are prohibited.

36 CFR §2.16 – HORSES AND PACK ANIMALS

(a) The use of animals other than those designated as “pack animals” for purposes of transporting equipment is prohibited. The following animals are designated as pack animals for purposes of transporting equipment:

Horses
Mules
Burros
Other potential pack animals (llamas, goats, etc) have potential to spread disease to native bighorn sheep populations and their use is therefore prohibited.

(b) The use of horses or pack animals is prohibited outside of the following trails, routes or areas designated for their use:

Baker Creek Trails system
Snake Creek Trail System
Strawberry Creek Trail system
Lexington Arch Trail system
Big Wash
Decathon Canyon

(g) Other conditions concerning the use of horses or pack animals:

Up to 4 horses or pack animals are allowed per group for day or overnight use. Larger groups may request an exception to these limits from the Superintendent under the terms of a Special Use Permit.
All feed transported, possessed and used in the park must be certified “weed free”. Information on “weed free” livestock feed can be obtained on the park website.
Animals may not be picketed, hobbled, or allowed to graze within 100 feet of any spring, stream, lake, body of water, or riparian area.
The tying of horses or pack animals to trees or other vegetation for more than 60 minutes or in a manner that causes damage to park resources is prohibited.
Horses or pack animals may not be tied to or secured within historic structures such as cabins, mills, or corrals.
Horse trailers may not be cleaned out in the park.
Manure piles dropped at trailheads or in overnight camping areas must be removed from the park.

36 CFR §2.17 – AIRCRAFT AND AIR DELIVERY

(a)(3) Delivering or retrieving a person or object by parachute, helicopter, or other airborne means is prohibited, except in emergencies involving public safety or serious property loss or pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit.

(c)(1) The removal of a downed aircraft, components, or parts thereof is subject to procedures established by the Superintendent.

36 CFR §2.19 – WINTER ACTIVITIES

(a) Skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, sledding, inner tubing, tobogganing, and similar winter sports are prohibited on park roads and in parking areas open to motor vehicle traffic, except under the conditions below:

Skiing is allowed on the open portion of Baker Creek road from the junction of the main road to the winter road closure area. Skiers on this portion of the road must yield to vehicular traffic.

36 CFR §2.20 – SKATING, SKATEBOARDS AND SIMILAR DEVICES

Using roller skates, skateboards, roller skis, coasting vehicles, or similar devices is prohibited, except in the following designated areas:

On paved surfaces located in the park residential areas, only by park residents and their guests.

36 CFR §2.21 – SMOKING

(a) The following portions of the park, buildings, structures and/or facilities are closed to smoking as noted:

All government owned buildings and historic structures, including all restrooms.
On the Mountain View Nature Trail and Island Forest Loop.
All government owned, rented, or leased vehicles.
Within 25 feet of the entrance/exit to a public building or cave.
Within all caves.
All cabins, structures, and ruins within the park.
Within 50 feet of any above ground gasoline and propane dispensing or flammable storage area.
Areas of the park as designated during high fire danger.

36 CFR §2.22 – PROPERTY

(a)(2) Leaving property unattended for longer than 24 hours is prohibited, except in the following locations or under the following conditions:

Visitors using the backcountry area are allowed to leave their vehicle unattended at trailhead parking areas while they are in the backcountry. It is recommended that visitors partake of the free backcountry registration at the Great Basin or Lehman Caves Visitor Centers for safety and tracking purposes.
Extra vehicles may be left in Visitor Center parking lots for persons on extended trips within the park with the prior approval of the Superintendent.
Caching of food and water supplies in the backcountry for use on extended backcountry trips may be permitted with prior approval of the Superintendent. All caches must be clearly marked with a date when they were deposited. Unmarked caches or caches left in excess of 30 days may be removed by park staff.

36 CFR §2.23 – RECREATION FEES

(b) Recreation fees and/or permits, in accordance with 36 CFR part 71, are established for the following areas and/or for the use of the following specialized sites, facilities, equipment or services, or for participation in the following group activity, recreation events or specialized recreation uses:

Entrance Fee Areas:

There is no entrance fee for Great Basin National Park

Daily Site Use Fee Areas:

Lehman Caves guided tours
Lower Lehman Campground
Upper Lehman Campground
Baker Creek Campground
Grey Cliffs Loop A and Primitive Group Campsites (Loops B & C)
RV Dump station

36 CFR §2.35 – ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES AND CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

(a)(3)(i) The following areas and facilities within the park are closed to consumption of alcoholic beverages, and/or to the possession of a bottle, can or other receptacle containing an alcoholic beverage that is open, or has been opened, or whose seal has been broken or the contents of which have been partially removed:

Non-residential government buildings.
Visitor Center patios and lawns outside of the concessionaire’s designated area.
Caves.

36 CFR §2.37 – NONCOMMERCIAL SOLICITING

Soliciting or demanding gifts, money, goods, or services is prohibited except pursuant to the terms and conditions or a permit that has been issued under §2.50, §2.51, or §2.52.

36 CFR §2.38 – EXPLOSIVES

(a) Using, possessing, storing, or transporting explosives, blasting agents or explosive materials is prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit.

(b) Using, or possessing fireworks and firecrackers is prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit or in designated areas under the following conditions:

36 CFR §2.50 – SPECIAL EVENTS

(a) Sports events, pageants, regattas, public spectator attractions, entertainments, ceremonies, and similar events are allowed, provided there is a meaningful association between the park area and the events, and the observance contributes to visitor understanding of the significance of the park area, and a permit therefor has been issued by the superintendent.

36 CFR §2.51 -- DEMONSTRATIONS

(b) Demonstrations of more than 25 people are allowed within park areas designated as available under paragraph (c)(2) when the superintendent has issued a permit for the activity.

(c)(2) The following locations are designated as available for demonstrations:

Great Basin Visitor Center in the circular concrete benches.
Lehman Caves Visitor Center parking area. The area designated is at the North end of the lower parking area.

36 CFR §2.52 -- SALE OR DISTRIBUTION OF PRINTED MATTER

(b) The sale or distribution of printed matter by more than 25 persons is allowed within park areas designated as available under §2.51(c)(2) (see above) when the superintendent has issued a permit.

36 CFR §2.60 – LIVESTOCK USE AND AGRICULTURE

(a) Livestock are generally prohibited in any park area. They are only permitted in park areas pursuant to the exceptions provided for in §2.60(a) and only pursuant to the terms and conditions of a license, permit, or lease.

36 CFR §2.61 – RESIDING ON FEDERAL LANDS

(a) Residing in park areas, other than on privately owned lands, is prohibited except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit lease or contract.

36 CFR §2.62 – MEMORIALIZATION

(a) The installation of a monument, memorial, tablet, structure, or other commemorative installation in a park area without the authorization of the Director is prohibited.

(b) The scattering of human ashes from cremation is prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit, or in the following areas and according to the following conditions:

The remains to be scattered must have been cremated and pulverized.
The scattering of remains by persons on the ground is to be performed at least 100 yards from any trail, road, developed facility, or body of water.
The scattering of remains from the air must be at a minimum altitude of 2000 feet above the ground.
No scattering of remains from the air is to be performed over developed areas, facilities, or bodies of water.

Part 3 BOATING AND WATER USE ACTIVITIES

36 CFR §3.16 – SWIMMING AND WADING

Swimming or wading is allowed in waters, subject to closures or restrictions designated in §1.5 of this document.

PART 4 VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC SAFETY

36 CFR §4.11 – VEHICLE LOAD, WEIGHT AND SIZE LIMITS

(a) The following load, weight, and size limits, which are more restrictive than State law, apply to the roads indicated under the terms and conditions, and/or under permit as noted:

36 CFR §4.21 – SPEED LIMITS

(a), (b) The following speed limits are established for the routes/roads indicated:

15 mph: Campgrounds, parking lots, picnic areas, residential areas, and Pole Canyon Road.
25 mph: Baker Creek Road, Snake Creek Road, and all other unpaved roads unless otherwise posted.
35 mph: All paved roads, unless otherwise posted

36 CFR §4.30 – BICYCLES & ELECTRONIC BICYCLES (E-BIKES)

(a) The use of a bicycle is prohibited except on park roads, in parking areas, and on routes designated for bicycle use. Park roads and parking areas that are closed to bicycle use are listed in §1.5 of this document.

36 CFR §4.31 – HITCHHIKING

Hitchhiking or soliciting transportation is prohibited except in the following designated areas and under the following conditions:

Hitchhikers must use trailheads, parking areas, and turnouts and not stand on the road shoulder nor obstruct traffic.

PART 5 COMMERCIAL AND PRIVATE OPERATIONS

36 CFR §5.1 – ADVERTISEMENTS

Commercial notices or advertisements shall not be displayed, posted, or distributed on federally owned or controlled lands within a park area unless prior written permission has been given by the Superintendent.

36 CFR §5.3 – BUSINESS OPERATIONS

Engaging in or soliciting any business in park areas, except in accordance with the provisions of a permit, contract, or other written agreement with the United States, except as such may be specifically authorized under special regulations applicable to a park area, is prohibited.

36 CFR §5.4 – COMMERCIAL PASSENGER-CARRYING MOTOR VEHICLES

(a) The commercial transportation of passengers by motor vehicle except as authorized under a contract or permit from the Secretary or his authorized representative is prohibited in certain parks. See §5.4(a) for more information.

36 CFR §5.5 – COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHY

The following conditions apply to commercial photography within the park:

A permit is required for any commercial photography, as defined in section 1.6, and under NPS Director’s Order 53.
Persons or organizations engaged in commercial photography, motion pictures or video production must complete an application for a permit and return it to the parks Office of Special Park Uses. For information call 775-234-7331. The permit will specify whether a surety bond is required prior to the commercial operation occurring.
NPS escorts are required for all special event and filming operations in Lehman Caves, and may be required for any permitted filming event in the park. Filming in the interior of any historic building will only be permitted for documentary films or news/travel programs and will require an NPS escort. Ordinary and customary charges may be assessed to cover the cost of the park escort.

The Superintendent has determined that the issuance of a commercial photography permit is contingent on adequate protection of park resources, avoidance of unreasonable interference with public access to the park, and actions consistent with all applicable laws.

36 CFR §5.6 – COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

(b) & (c) Using commercial vehicles on government roads within park areas when such use is in no way connected with the operation of the park is generally prohibited and requires permission or a permit from the Superintendent.

36 CFR §5.7 – CONSTRUCTION OF BUILDINGS OR OTHER FACILITIES

Such activities are prohibited, except in accordance with the provisions of a valid permit, contract, or other written agreement with the United States.

36 CFR §5.10 – EATING, DRINKING, OR LODGING ESTABLISHMENTS

(a) In certain parks, establishments offering food, drink, or lodging for sale on privately owned lands may only be operated with a permit from the Superintendent. See §5.10 for more information.

PART 6 SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL

36 CFR §§6.4, 6.5, 6.8, 6.9 – WASTE DISPOSAL SITES

A person proposing to operate a solid waste disposal site must submit a request for a permit to the proper Superintendent for review by the Regional Director.

Last updated: December 2, 2022

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

100 Great Basin National Park
Baker, NV 89311

Phone:

775-234-7331
Available 8:00 am - 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Day

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