Safety

Soldiers made sure they had water with them at all times...you should too.

NPS

Still a Battlefield

When Mexican and United States troops confronted each other on the battlefield of Palo Alto cannon blasts and musket fire were not their only concerns. They also faced a number of hazards from the venomous animals, prickly plants, and the harsh environment of the field.

Today, the thunder of cannon and the rattle of muskets are distant memories. But the natural hazards remain. The park encourages you to be aware of possible dangers and follow guidelines to minimize your risk.

Think Safety First

Stick to marked trails, roads, and designated areas. We ask that you admire the park's natural resources from a distance and do not wander onto the prairie or into the brush. There are definitely some things at the park you don't want to step on.

Staffing may be limited at times and a Ranger may not be available to provide immediate assistance. Try to plan your visit as part of a group or with a companion and have a cell phone with you at all times.

 

A yucca in bloom is a site to behold but please do it from a safe distance.

NPS

Animal & Plant Hazards

Be alert for snakes, thorny plants, stinging insects, and other plant and animal threats. Do not touch plants and animals found along the edge of the trails and parking areas. Check your clothing and body for ticks upon leaving.

Hot, Hot, Hot

Be aware of the dangers of heat-related illnesses. Make sure to stay hydrated while visiting the park. The fall and winter months are generally mild but daytime highs during the late spring and summer can reach the upper 90s. Undergrowth can be highly flammable. Do not use open flames and smoke only in designated areas.

Protect Your Park

Although some of the plants and animals found at Palo Alto can be dangerous, the park is their home. Please recognize you are the outsider and respect the inhabitants of the park.

• Do not remove any plants, animals or historical objects from the field.

• Avoid dangerous species, but do not kill or injure them.

• Hunting is NOT allowed.

• Carrying a weapon into a federal building is a federal crime.

• Metal detectors and digging are prohibited.

• Place litter in trash cans and recyclable materials in appropriate bins.

• Please report any violations to a park ranger.