Safety

NPS

Visitor safety and resource protection take priority at Camp Nelson National Monument!

General Safety Points When Visiting:

• Be observant of trail conditions and watch your step, the park has many uneven surfaces.
• Remain on designated trails and walkways, and do not enter areas that are closed and marked as such.
• Good, closed-toe walking shoes should be worn on the trails.
• Children should always be accompanied by an adult while visiting the park.
• Be aware of maintenance equipment in use or construction zones.
• Keep a respectful distance from wildlife.
• Secure valuables out of sight in your vehicle.
• Relic hunting and metal detecting is strictly prohibited.
• Please stay off historic earthwork fortifications and structures.

In Warm Weather:

• High temperatures and the risk of heat illness can happen rapidly during the summer months when temperatures can exceed 90ºF (32ºC).
• Be prepared for heat and humidity while recreating in the park.
• Always carry and drink plenty of water, as well as eat salty snacks, as excessive sweating can diminish the body’s sodium levels.
• A water refilling station is available in the Visitor Center during operating hours.
• Heat may be deadly to children or pets left unattended in vehicles.
• Potential for sudden violent thunderstorms exists.
• Be aware of falling tree limbs during wind gust and storms.

In Cold Weather:

• Be aware of ice on walkways, steps, and in parking lots.
• Use handrails where available.
• Be aware of falling tree limbs during wind gust and storms.

Ticks:

Ticks can be prevalent throughout the park and there is a risk of tick-borne illness if one bites you. It is important to take precautions and to be aware of the risks. When in tick habitat:

• Wear light-colored clothing, long sleeves, and long pants, with pant legs tucked into socks and shirts tucked into pants. Consider wearing gaiters as well.
• Do frequent tick checks of yourself and any children or pets with you.
• Always check for ticks after any outdoor activity, both at the end of the day and the next morning.
• Consider using chemical applications. 0.5% Permethrin insecticide applied to clothing is effective in reducing tick bites; however, when used improperly it can create negative health effects. DEET repellent has only limited effectiveness against ticks (less than a couple of hours). Picaridin is another repellent option that will not ruin synthetic fabrics or their water-repellent finishes. Always use and store chemicals according to the manufacturers' instructions.

Snakes:

Be alert for venomous snakes. Copperheads and rattlesnakes are generally found on land but may sometimes be seen in the water. Use ordinary precautions: wear shoes and always carry a flashlight after dusk. If you see a snake, leave it alone! All animals in the park are protected by law.

Poison Ivy:

Poison ivy can be found throughout the park and can grow as a shrub or vine. The leaves are red in early spring, shiny green in summer, and an attractive red or orange in the fall. Each leaf consists of three leaflets.

• Most people are sensitive in varying degrees to the oils of this plant, which makes skin itch, blister, and swell.
• Avoid contact with all parts of the plant. If exposed, wash the affected skin with soap and water as soon as possible. It takes several minutes for the oils to penetrate the skin.
• Do not burn campfire deadwood that is entangled with poison ivy leaves or vines. Soot from the fire can carry the sap through the air, and cause serious distress in the eyes, nose, and throat.

Hiking and Trails:

• You are responsible for your own safety.
• Travel on Camp Nelson National Monument’s hiking trails has inherent risks and hikers assume complete responsibility for their own safety.