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VICKSBURG NATIONAL MILITARY PARK COMPENDIUM OF DESIGNATIONS, CLOSURES, REQUEST REQUIREMENTS AND OTHER RESTRICTIONS IMPOSED UNDER THE DISCRETIONARY AUTHORITY OF THE SUPERINTENDENT
In accordance with regulations and the delegated authority provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations ("36 CFR"), Chapter 1, Parts 1-7, authorized by Title 16 United States Code, Section 3, the following regulatory provisions are established for the proper management, protection, government and public use of those portions of Vicksburg National Military Park and Vicksburg National Cemetery under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service.
Written determinations, which explain the reasoning behind the Superintendent’s use of discretionary authority, are required by Section 1.5(c) and appear in this document in italicized print.
RECOMMENDED:
Law Enforcement, John Castaldo 10/17/2026
APPROVED:
Superintendent, James Stone 10/19/2026
I. 36 CFR §1.5 - Visiting Hours, Public Use Limits, Closures, And Area Designations For Specific Use Or Activities
The following visiting hours and public use limits are established for all or for the listed portions of the park, and the following closures are established for all or a portion of the park to all public use or to a certain use or activity:
Visiting Hours
Public restrooms open daily, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
8:30am- 4:30pm daily, Wednesday to Sunday.
Public restrooms open daily, 8:30 am – 4:30pm.
Museum open daily, 8:30 am – 4:30pm.
8:30am – 5:00pm daily for vehicle access.
(Entrance gate closes at 4:40pm)
Open sunrise - sunset for pedestrians.
Closed to vehicle traffic.
Closed to vehicle traffic. Open sunrise – sunset for pedestrians
8:30am – 5:00pm daily, all year
8:30am – 5:00pm daily, all year.
Open as staffing allows.
Closed indefinitely.
Open by Appointment.
8:30am – 5:00pm daily, all year
8:30am – 5:00pm daily, all year
Determination: Visiting hours are established based on the availability of staff, to ensure an enjoyable and safe visitor experience, and to assure adequate protection of park resources. After hours use, nighttime activity and overnight parking create a number of impacts that would be inconsistent with the protection of park resources.
Closures
The park will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. Determination: This closure allows all park employees the opportunity to enjoy these holidays with their families and friends.
The Superintendent may close any portion of the park and/or roadways to public access during prescribed fires, periods of ice, snow, or any other potentially hazardous conditions or emergencies. Roadways may be closed with gates, barricades, or other traffic control devices. Driving around or past these devices is prohibited.
Locations Closed to Public Access
Determination: Employee residences are the private domiciles of the employees.
Determination: These areas are designated for NPS employees to work and contain official NPS
records, tools and equipment, and Personal Identifiable Information (PII) for the park’s functioning.
Determination: Maintenance yards can be dangerous and are closed for visitor's safety. Maintenance Parking Areas are closed to visitors due to their use by maintenance staff, deliveries, and contractors.
Determination: Ranges are for law enforcement use only
Determination: These areas are for employee use only and contain sensitive archeological or cultural resources.
Determination: the lower deck of the USS Cairo is closed to prevent vandalism to the boat and
damage to sensitive resources.
Determination: These two roads are maintained for service vehicles only; use of the roads is not
necessary to reach any public facilities, or park features.
Determination: These closures allow for protection of resources or for assurance of public safety
during periods of unusual or unpredictable circumstances.
Public Use Limits
The park is closed to swimming and bathing.
Determination:It is unsafe to swim or bathe in waters within the park due to water level issues and hazardous downed trees and limbs.
The park is closed to camping, except for approved living history encampments related to actual
historic events that happened on the grounds of Vicksburg National Military Park that are related
to the Civil War, Reconstruction, or slavery or for other groups who may camp in conjunction with
a park-sponsored activities.
Determination: Opportunities exist outside the park for camping. There are no designated
campgrounds in the park. Infrastructure does not support campgrounds. Living history groups may
camp in the park with written approval from the Superintendent during park-sponsored interpretive
programs and special events supporting the park to further its mission related to the Civil War and
Reconstruction.
The park is closed to picnicking except in the areas designated for that purpose located on the grounds outside the USS Cairo Museum and the Rest Area located at visitor center parking lot, or at any location designed by the Superintendent as part of a special use permit.
Determination: Opportunities exist outside the park for this activity. The areas listed above provide a reasonable accommodation for those touring the park without interrupting their route. Outside of these approved areas, it would be inconsistent with the preservation and protection of resource values at hallowed battleground sites.
Pedestrian use of the park tour road is restricted to the lane designated by a painted white line. Pedestrians using the tour road in sections not delineated by a white line should walk single file, and as near to the side of the road as possible.
Determination: Pedestrian use of the tour road is appropriate for enjoying park resources. The above limitations are established to ensure the safety of recreationists, as well as that of the motoring public.
Motor vehicles may only stop or park in designated parking areas or in pull-outs along the roadway. No off-road operation or parking of motor vehicles is permitted.
Determination: Parking or driving off designated roadways or parking facilities can create opportunities for erosion and otherwise damage park resources.
All park trails and grounds are closed to off-road bicycling, equestrian use, and motorized recreation.
Determination: Soils throughout most of the park are highly erodible. The indicated uses could result in erosion that would damage natural or cultural resources.
The NPS has the responsibility to administer the licensed guide program at Vicksburg National Military Park in accordance with 36 CFR Part 25. Part 25.2 states “No person shall be permitted to offer his services or to act as a guide unless licensed for that purpose by the superintendent.” The term offering services is understood to mean in a commercial context. Therefore, the requirement to hire a Licensed Battlefield Guide for a historical tour of the battlefield at Vicksburg National Military Park is applicable only when such services are offered for a fee or in association with another commercial activity. All tours which are not commercial in nature, where park visitors are not paying either for participation in a tour or paying a tour guide (i.e. military staff rides, school
groups, etc.) do not require the hiring of a Licensed Battlefield Guide. As of 2025, the Licensed Battlefield Guide program at Vicksburg operates under a Commercial Use Authorization (CUA), which creates legal requirements that protect the guides and the NPS.
The Superintendent licenses the guides collectively as a group through the Vicksburg Licensed Battlefield Guide Association (LBGA), rather than issuing licenses to individual guides. The CUA and group LBGA license are processed in January each year.
Paranormal investigations and other activities that sensationalize the park’s history that interfere with or detract from the use and appreciation of the solemnity of the battlefield and siege lines are prohibited.
Determination: Activities such as those described above are inappropriate within the park due to the historic nature of park resources and the sensitive nature of park history.
No filming or permits will be authorized in the following locations with the boundaries of Vicksburg National Military Park:
Illinois Monument (Interior)
Archeological Research Lab (inside the Cairo Restoration Shop)
NPS employee offices, workspaces, utility rooms, and storage areas
Determination: Filming activities are inappropriate in these areas due to the historic nature of park resources and the sensitive nature of critical park infrastructure (security and utility systems). No access will be granted to these areas to ensure security and privacy.
(hidden containers which usually have trinkets placed inside and located by GPS) is prohibited throughout the park and National Cemetery. EarthCaching, the hunting of a “virtual” geocache by GPS and contains no physical hidden container or cache is allowed. EarthCaching is a hunt for the Earth’s natural and geological features as the “treasure” and does not allow any physical object to be hidden or buried within the grounds of the park.
Determination: The entire park consists of hallowed battleground and historically significant
resources. Methods of stashing items such as digging, burying, covering and otherwise
concealing items are sometimes used while geocaching, and are inappropriate in these areas.
EarthCaching is appropriate as no physical object is placed in the park, instead visitors using
this service are guided to a natural or geographical feature.
Launching, landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Vicksburg National Military Park is prohibited except as approved in writing by the Superintendent as part of a Special Use Permit.
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, communications links). This term includes all types of devices that meet this definition (e.g., model airplanes, quadcopters, and drones) that are used for any purpose including for recreation or commerce.
Determination: Operation of unmanned aircraft has significant potential to create
unreasonable noise and other intrusions that would adversely affect the experiences of
visitors and the solemnity of the park. Careless operation of unmanned aircraft could result in
collisions with park monuments, possibly causing damage to these historic resources.
The following restrictions and/or conditions are in effect for the specific uses or activities noted:
Vicksburg National Military Park and Vicksburg National Cemetery are closed to recreational and
sporting activities including, but not limited to the following: pocket motorcycles, field games,
flying model airplanes or operation of other radio-controlled models, rocket launching, kite flying,
throwing objects through the air (Frisbees, balls, etc.), skiing, sledding, and similar activities, and
sunbathing. Prohibited activities do not include walking, hiking, jogging, running, or on-road
bicycling.
Determination: Ample opportunities exist outside the park for these activities. These types of activities are inconsistent with the preservation and protection of resource values and interfere with the peace and tranquility of the landscape and are inconsistent with the reason the park was created.
Engines must be shut down when parked for a period of time of more than five minutes. A no idle zone has been designated at the Visitor Center and at the USS Cairo parking lot.
Determination: The idling of bus engines adds unnecessary noise and exhaust fumes to the air, thereby diminishing the peace and tranquility of the park and its enjoyment by visitors.
II. 36 CFR §1.6 -Activities That Require A Permit
The following is a compilation of those activities for which a permit from the Superintendent is required: Information and applications to request a permit can be obtained at Vicksburg National Military Park during regular business hours, 8:30 am-4:30 pm. Monday to Friday. Contact us at 601-636-0583 or via the internet at www.nps.gov/vick/permits or mail addressed to Superintendent, Vicksburg National Military Park, 3201 Clay Street Vicksburg, MS 39183.
Carry or possess weapon, trap or net. Firearms may be carried or possessed in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal laws. Other weapons as defined under 36 CFR 1.4 will require a permit
Specimen Collection (the taking of any plant, fish, fungi, wildlife, or minerals)
Camping and Food Storage
Audio Disturbances: Operation of a public address system in connection with a public gathering or special event for which a permit has been issued pursuant to §2.50 or §2.51.
Aircraft & Air Delivery: Delivery or retrieval of a person or object by parachute, helicopter or other airborne means.
Launching, landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft (UAS/Drone) from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Vicksburg National Military
Removal of a downed aircraft.
Noncommercial soliciting
Explosives: Use, possess, store, transport explosives, blasting agents
Use or possess fireworks
Conduct a sports event, pageant, regatta, public spectator attraction, entertainment, ceremony, and similar events
Public assemblies, meetings, gatherings, demonstrations, parades and other public expressions of views
Demonstrations involving 25 persons or fewer may be held without a permit within designated park First Ammendment area.
Demonstrations involving more than 25 persons require a permit.
Per 36 CFR §12.4, no demonstrations may be held in Vicksburg National Cemetery.
Sale or distribution of print matter that is not solely commercial advertising.
Livestock Use
Erection of New Monuments (requires approval from Director of NPS)
Exceeding of established vehicle load, weight, and size limits.
Advertisements (Display, posting, or distribution).
Construction of buildings, facilities, roads, paths, structures, etc.
36 CFR Part 25.2(a) Conduct a Battlefield Tour for a FeeAll tours which are commercial in nature, where park visitors are paying for participation in a tour or paying a tour guide require the hiring of a Licensed Battlefield Guide or Special Use Permit for their tour
Filming / Still Photography
Some filming, still photography, and audio recording (depends upon the facts and circumstances) may require a permit. See 36 CFR 1.5(a)(2) and 54 U.S.C. 100905.
Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity that occurs in closed areas, requires exclusive use of a site or area, or involves a set or staging equipment other than handheld equipment (such as a tripod, monopod, and handheld lighting equipment) requires a permit, unless the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.
Filming, still photography, and audio recording that involves more than eight individuals requires a permit, unless the NPS has specifically notified an individual or group that a permit is not required, or if the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.
If a permit is required for the reasons stated above, or if the NPS otherwise determines and then notifies an individual or group that a permit is required for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity, then engaging in that activity without a permit is prohibited. Violating a term or condition of a permit issued by the NPS for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity is prohibited, and may result in the suspension or revocation of the permit, in addition to any penalties that may apply under 36 CFR 1.3.
Determination: Federal law at 54 U.S.C. 100905 states that permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording in park areas if certain requirements are met. These requirements address various topics, including, but not limited to, group size, location, equipment, potential impacts to resources and visitors, and the likelihood that the NPS will incur related administrative costs. If any of these requirements are not met, the law allows the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the NPS, to require a permit for the subject activity. Permit requirements are imposed by the superintendent under discretionary authority provided by 36 CFR 1.5(a)(2), which allows the superintendent to impose conditions or restrictions on a use or activity, consistent with applicable legislation, to implement management responsibilities. The general regulations for permits in 36 CFR 1.6 do not apply to permits issued for filming, still photography, and audio recording, which instead are governed by the statutory provisions in 54 U.S.C. 100905. The imposition of permit requirements, on a case-by-case basis, for filming, still photography, or audio recording does not require rulemaking under 36 CFR 1.5(b). Requiring a permit with reasonable terms and conditions in accordance with statutory requirements at 54 U.S.C. 100905 is not highly controversial, will not result in a significant alteration in the public use pattern of the System unit, will not adversely affect the System unit’s natural, aesthetic, scenic or cultural values, or require a long-term or significant modification in the resource management objectives of the System unit, because the permit requirement is limited in time and scope to the specific activities authorized by the permit, which contain terms and conditions that protect the values, resources, and visitors of the System unit, and implements federal law.
Commercial Vehicle Use
Use of commercial vehicles on park area roads(The Superintendent shall issue a permit to access private lands within or adjacent to the park when access is otherwise not available).
Vicksburg National Cemetery
Per 36 CFR § 12.4, no demonstrations may be held in Vicksburg National Cemetery. Permits are required for disinterment of remains, for burials, and special events. Vicksburg National Cemetery is closed to new burials, except in the rare case of existing burial rights. No ashes are permitted to be scattered in Vicksburg National Cemetery.
Licensed Guide Service Regulation
Per 36 CFR, Chapter 1, Part 25, the Superintendent of Vicksburg National Military Park is authorized to administer a Licensed Battlefield Guide program. All persons offering services or acting as a guide representing Vicksburg National Military Park will be licensed by the Superintendent. Requests for application to become a guide are managed through the Licensed Battlefield Guide Association, which operates under a commercial use authorization and group license.
III. GENERAL REGULATIONS
36 CFR §2.1 - PRESERVATION OF NATURAL, CULTURAL AND ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Dead wood on the ground may be collected for use as fuel for campfires within the park in the following areas:
Park wide, but only for authorized living history demonstrations or other approved activities described under “closures” above.
Determination: Campfires are not permitted within the park except those events associated with living history demonstrations or otherwise authorized by the Superintendent.
The following conditions are in effect for walking, climbing, entering, ascending or traversing the listed archeological or cultural resource, monuments or statues:
Climbing is not permitted on monuments and cannons
Determination: Climbing on cannons and monuments, as well as traversing archeological or cultural resources can be unsafe and unduly affect the preservation of these features.
The superintendent may restrict hiking or pedestrian use to a designated trail or walkway system pursuant to §§ 1.5 and 1.7. Leaving a trail or walkway to shortcut between portions of the same trail or walkway, or to shortcut to an adjacent trail or walkway in violation of designated restrictions is prohibited. All non-trail hiking within the park will be limited to open, grass spaces that are safe and easily accessible.
Determination: The terrain of Vicksburg National Military Park is quite rugged with thick woods, deep ravines, and frequent washouts. For the safety of visitors, all off-road travel in the park will be limited to formally designated trails and cleared / grass areas.
Possessing, destroying, injuring, defacing, removing, digging, or disturbing a structure or its furnishing or fixtures, or other cultural or archeological resources is forbidden.
Determination: Any digging or damage to archeological or cultural resources in the park destroys the historic and cultural integrity of the battlefield. Such actions are illegal and will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
Possessing or using a mineral or metal detector, magnetometer, side scan sonar, other metal detecting device, or sub bottom profiler within the park is illegal.
This paragraph does not apply to:
A device broken down and stored or packed to prevent its use while in park areas.
Electronic equipment used primarily for the navigation and safe operation of boats and aircraft.
Mineral or metal detectors, magnetometers, or sub bottom profilers used for authorized scientific, mining, or administrative activities.
Determination: Metal detectors and other devices promote damage to archeological and cultural resources in the park, which destroys the historic and cultural integrity of the battlefield. Such actions are illegal and will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
Fruits, nuts, berries, and edible fruiting bodies of fungi may be gathered by hand for personal use or consumption, in accordance with the noted size, quantity, collection sites and/or use or consumption restrictions:
The gathering in small quantities (one dry gallon per day, per person) of fruits, nuts, and berries are permitted.
It is prohibited to climb trees, monuments, or historic earthworks to collect these items.
Determination: Limitations placed on the collection of fruits, nuts, berries, and fungi are necessary to preserve resources for wildlife and encourage species growth.
36 CFR §2.2 - WILDLIFE PROTECTION
All of Vicksburg National Military Park is closed to viewing of wildlife with the use of an artificial light.
Determination: Visiting hours are established based on the availability of staff, to ensure an enjoyable and safe visitor experience, and to assure adequate protection of park resources. After hours use and nighttime activity create a number of impacts that would be inconsistent with the protection of park wildlife. The Superintendent may authorize the use of artificial light for scientific and resource use.
36 CFR §2.4 - WEAPONS, TRAPS, OR NETS
Visitors may possess and carry firearms within Vicksburg National Military Park and Vicksburg National Cemetery in accordance with federal, state, and local laws. Federal law prohibits firearms in certain park facilities and buildings. These places are marked with signs at public entrances. The federal facilities for Vicksburg National Military Park and Vicksburg National Cemetery are as follows:
Visitor Center
USS Cairo Museum
Pemberton’s Headquarters (closed to public)
Park Maintenance Facilities
Curatorial Storage
Restoration Shop
Conditions for Weapons
The possession and use historic weapons necessary to support interpretive and educational demonstrations are permitted, subject to limitations described in a permit issued by the Superintendent. Use of the historic weapons will be in a manner consistent with all National Park Service policies related to historic black powder firing demonstrations.
36 CFR §2.10 - CAMPING and FOOD STORAGE
The park is closed to camping except under conditions as identified in “closures” above.
36 CFR §2.11 – PICNICKING
The park is closed to picnicking except in designated picnic areas at the USS Cairo Museum and Visitor Center. See “closures” above.
36 CFR §2.13 - FIRES
Lighting or maintaining a fire within Vicksburg National Military Park is prohibited except:
Small campfires contained within well-defined fire circles as part of an overnight, living history encampment (with permit from the Superintendent).
Barbeque fires contained within an appropriate grilling device in a park housing area.
Prescribed fires for management of resources as authorized by an approved burn plan.
Determination: Limitations on the use of fire are necessary to prevent adverse impacts to resources, as well as to prevent fire from escaping to adjoining lands and residential areas
36 CFR 2.13(a)(1) – Conditions on Lighting or Maintaining a Fire
A fire may be ignited and maintained only by using fuel sources designed and commonly used for warmth or the preparation of food, such as charcoal briquettes or natural firewood. Lighting or maintaining a fire with other materials including, but not limited to, flammable liquids, garbage, fireworks, plastics, aerosol canisters, batteries, or other manufactured or synthetic materials, is prohibited.
Determination: This action is necessary for the maintenance of public health and safety, protection of environmental or scenic values, protection of natural or cultural resources, and the implementation of management responsibilities. Materials other than approved combustibles – especially fire accelerants and substances prone to wind transport or explosion – creates serious risks when used to light or maintain fires. These combustibles can ignite or spread wildfires that directly threaten people and valuable resources and assets. The burning of manufactured or synthetic materials can contribute to air pollution, contaminate soil and water, and be toxic to humans and the environment. Less restrictive measures, such as an education campaign informing visitors of the risks of using certain materials to light or maintain a fire, would not be commensurate with the substantial risks associated with those activities and could lead to adverse outcomes that might be prevented by establishing an enforceable condition.
36 CFR §2.15 - PETS
Pets are allowed within the park, including on park trails, as long as they are physically restrained by a leash of six feet in length or less. Electronic shock collars do not meet the requirements for physical restraint of a pet as required by 36 CFR § 2.15. The following additional restrictions apply:
All animal waste must be removed no matter the location (road, paths, trail, open field, or around buildings). Visitors bringing pets to the park must carry on their person a bag or other device for the containerization and removal of excrement. Visitors shall immediately containerize and remove pet excrement by from the park.
Pets are NOT allowed in park residences occupied by seasonal and term employees or interns of the park. The only exception to this is the use of a Service Animal. The Superintendent has the discretion to lodge an employee in their own, separate housing if they do require a Service Animal that may be disruptive to others living in the same park residence.
Pets are not allowed onboard the USS Cairo, for reason that pet waste can damage the historic timbers under and around the walkway.
Determination: Limitations on pets within the park are necessary to ensure a positive visitor experience for all, as well as to prevent possible resource damage that could be created by uncontrolled pets
Service Animals
NPS policy defines a service animal as a DOG, that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability.
The tasks performed by the animal must be directly related to the person’s disability.
A service dog must be trained to perform a specific task related to the disability of its handler.
Service dogs are legally permitted anywhere that visitors can go. They must be allowed wherever visitors are allowed.
Service dogs are allowed to go into areas where pets are prohibited because service dogs are not considered pets and consequently are not regulated as pets.
Emotional support, therapy, comfort, or companion animals are NOT considered “service animals” by the National Park Service.
Provision of emotional support, well-being, comfort, or companionship does not constitute work or tasks for the purposes of what is defined as a service animal in the NPS policy.
Emotional support, therapy, comfort, or companion animals can be any animal, not just a dog.
The presence of these animals provides a calming effect for many people, but they do not qualify as service animals because they have not been trained to perform a specific job or task.
Therefore, a park can treat an emotional support animal as a pet in accordance with its pet policy.
NPS staff may require an individual with a disability to remove a service animal from a facility, service, program, or activity if the animal is not housebroken or is out of control and the handler does not take effective action to control it.
If a service animal must be removed, the visitor is allowed to participate in the service, program, or activity without the animal.
Determination: In October 2018, the National Park Service (NPS) issued a policy memorandum regarding the use of service animals by persons with disabilities in national parks. The revised policy aligns the NPS policy with the standards established by the Department of Justice and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
36 CFR § 2.20 - Skating, skateboards, and similar devices.
Motorcycles, golf carts, skateboards, rollerblades and skates, and scooters are not allowed on any pedestrian walkways, sidewalks, or trails. Visitors using these vehicles must travel with the flow of traffic and obey all applicable traffic regulations. Such vehicle traffic will move to the right side of the road when available and in such a manner that they do not impede the flow of traffic.
36 CFR §2.21 – SMOKING
Smoking is prohibited in and around all buildings within Vicksburg National Military Park and Vicksburg National Cemetery. This includes interior sections of monuments and memorials, as well as the USS Cairo. Smoking is prohibited within 25 feet of any entrance or exit primarily accessed by the visiting public or any access where smoking would result in smoke traveling through doorways, windows, air ducts or other openings. Departmental Manual 2, Section 3 310, Chapter 11, Director’s Order #50D: 4 Smoking Policy.
36 CFR §2.35 – ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES and CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES
The following public use areas, portions of public use areas, and/or public 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:
All areas of Vicksburg National Military Park and Vicksburg National Cemetery except:
• Park residences
• Park Sponsored events
• Other areas when included as a provision of a special use permit issued by the Superintendent
Determination: Because of the prevalence of bluffs, cliffs, steep slopes, and other natural hazards in the park, consumption of alcohol can create a concern for visitor safety. In addition, consumption of alcohol is inappropriate. As such, consumption could interfere with visitors' appreciation of the historic scene and resources.
36 CFR §2.38 – EXPLOSIVES
Using, possessing, storing, or transporting explosives, blasting agents or explosive materials are prohibited. Using or possessing fireworks is prohibited.
Conditions for Explosives
The possession and use of small quantities of black powder necessary to support park permitted historic weapons demonstrations is permitted, subject to limitations described in a permit issued by the Superintendent. Use of the black powder will be in a manner consistent with all National Park Service policies related to historic black powder firing demonstrations.
Determination: Fireworks can intrude upon the park's contemplative visitor experience, create a safety concern, and possibly start unwanted wildfires. Black powder and other explosives are similarly dangerous, unless used under carefully controlled and supervised settings such as a historic weapons demonstration.
36 CFR § 2.51 - DEMONSTRATIONS
Public assemblies, meetings, gatherings, demonstrations, parades, and alike will be authorized by permit obtained from the Superintendent prior to the event requested. The permit must be applied for at least two weeks in advance, however, First Amendment activities of 25 people or less are allowed within the park areas designated as available under paragraph 2.51(c)(2) without a permit. Per federal law, no First Amendment activities may be held in Vicksburg National Cemetery. The following are designated by the Superintendent as First Amendment areas:
• The grounds immediately adjacent to the south side of the Visitor Center and north of the park tour road. Demonstrators must stay off the earthworks.
• The lawn area south of the tour road, west of the entrance drive, and north of a line approximately 25 feet north of, and parallel to Clay Street.
• The lawn area immediately south of the USS Cairo Museum, formed between the tour road and the brick walkway to the USS Cairo Museum from the parking lot.
Maps – Vicksburg National Military Park (See below)
36 CFR §2.62- MEMORIALIZATION
The scattering of ashes from cremated human remains is currently suspended until further review. New monuments may be erected within Vicksburg National Military Park only with authorization from the Director of the National Park Service.
36 CFR §3.21 - SWIMMING AND BATHING
The entire park is closed to swimming and bathing.
Determination: Streams and ponds do not meet recreational safety standards to swim or bathe in waters within the park due to drastic and sudden changes in water flow, reduced water quality, and hazardous downed trees and limbs.
36 CFR §4.11 - VEHICLE LOAD, WEIGHT AND SIZE LIMITS
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:
No vehicle in excess of 14 feet in height, 50 feet in length, or 60,000 pounds gross vehicle weight is allowed on any park roads.
No vehicle in excess of 25 feet in length is allowed on Sherman Avenue.
No vehicle access is allowed in the National Cemetery.
Determination: The stated limits are necessary because of low clearances, sharp curves, and bridge capacity along the park tour road.
36 CFR §4.21 - SPEED LIMITS
The following speed limits are established for the routes/roads indicated:
Tour Road - 25 mph
Parking lots and Service Roads - 15 mph
National Cemetery Road - Authorized Vehicles Only
All speed limits apply to bicycles
Determination: Speed limits are necessary to ensure a safe and enjoyable visitor experience
36 CFR §4.30 - BICYCLES
The use of a bicycle is prohibited except on park roads and parking lots. Bicyclists using the tour road must ride in the direction of traffic flow. No bicycle shall be operated off established roadways. Bicycles are not permitted on sidewalks, monuments, or the Thayer's Approach Tunnel. Bicycles must be walked on sidewalks and must not be left unattended on a sidewalk.
Electronic Bicycles
• The term “e-bike” means a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 h.p.).
• E-bikes are allowed in Vicksburg National Military Park where traditional bicycles are allowed. E-bikes are prohibited where traditional bicycles are prohibited. Except where use of motor vehicles by the public is allowed, using the electric motor to move an e-bike without pedaling is prohibited.
• A person operating an e-bike is subject to the following sections of 36 CFR part 4 that apply to the use of traditional bicycles: sections 4.12, 4.13, 4.20, 4.21, 4.22, 4.23, and 4.30(h)(2)-(5).
• Except as specified in this Compendium, the use of an e-bike within Vicksburg National Military Park is governed by State law, which is adopted and made a part of this compendium. Any violation of State law adopted by this paragraph is prohibited.
Determination: Bicycle use of the tour road is appropriate for enjoying park resources. The above limitations are established to ensure the safety of recreationists, as well as that of the motoring public.
36 CFR §$5.5 FILMING, STILL PHOTOGRAPHY, AND AUDIO RECORDING
See 36 CFR §1.6 – Activities that require a permit
IV. 36 CFR PART 12 – NATIONAL CEMETERY REGULATIONS
All activities in the Vicksburg National Cemetery will be consistent with the National Cemetery policies and directives set forth in 36 CFR Part 12, DO-RM 61, and NPS Policy Memorandum 22-01.
36 CFR 12.4 SPECIAL EVENTS AND DEMONSTRATIONS IN NATIONAL CEMETERY
Conducting a special event or demonstration, whether spontaneous or organized, is prohibited in Vicksburg National Cemetery except for official commemorative events conducted for Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and other dates designated by the superintendent as having special historic and commemorative significance to a particular national cemetery.
Dates authorized by 36 CFR § 12.4:
Memorial Day (Last Monday in May)
Veterans Day (November 11)
The Superintendent has also designated the following dates, which are authorized in NPS Policy Memorandum 22-01, to permit co-sponsored events to commemorate those interred at the National Cemetery:
Armed Forces Day – Third Saturday in May
Flag Day – June 14
National POW/MIA Recognition Day – Third Friday in September
In addition, the Superintendent has designated the following dates for the stated reasons:
Justification: Vicksburg National Cemetery is the final resting place for several United States Colored Troops who were massacred at Ross’s Landing. It is appropriate to honor these veterans on this day.
Justification: The system of national cemeteries to honor U.S. soldiers was authorized and established on February 22, 1867. Vicksburg is one of these national cemeteries and is the final resting place for over 18,000 soldiers. It is appropriate to honor these veterans on this day.
Justification: Vicksburg National Cemetery was established on April 12, 1867, and is the final resting place for over 18,000 soldiers. It is appropriate to honor these veterans on this day.
Justification: Vicksburg National Cemetery is the final resting place for several U.S. soldiers who lost their lives at the Battle of Port Gibson on May 1, 1863. It is appropriate to honor these veterans on this day.
Justification: Vicksburg National Cemetery is the final resting place for several U.S. soldiers who lost their lives at the Battle of Raymond on May 12, 1863. It is appropriate to honor these veterans on this day.
Justification:Vicksburg National Cemetery is the final resting place for several U.S. soldiers who lost their lives at the Battle of Jackson on May 14, 1863. It is appropriate to honor these veterans on this day.
Justification:Vicksburg National Cemetery is the final resting place for several U.S. soldiers who lost their lives at the Battle of Champion Hill on May 16, 1863. It is appropriate to honor these veterans on this day.
Justification:Vicksburg National Cemetery is the final resting place for several U.S. soldiers who lost their lives at the Battle of Big Black River on May 17, 1863. It is appropriate to honor these veterans on this day.
Justification:Vicksburg National Cemetery is the final resting place for several United States Colored Troops who lost their lives at the Battle of Milliken’s Bend on June 7, 1863. It is appropriate to honor these veterans on this day.
Justification:Vicksburg National Cemetery is the final resting place for several U.S. soldiers who lost their lives during the 47-day Siege of Vicksburg, which ended on July 4, 1863. Given this long struggle for freedom, it is appropriate to honor these veterans from July 1-4.
Justification: September 11 is Patriot Day and the National Day of Service and Remembrance, designated to honor and commemorate the sacrifices made on 9/11 by remembering the heroes, armed forces, first responders, and countless others’ acts of service to defend our nation’s freedom. It is appropriate to honor the veterans buried in Vicksburg National Cemetery on this day.
Justification:Vicksburg National Cemetery is the final resting place for several United States Colored Troops who defended the freedom of African Americans during the Vicksburg Massacres that took place on December 7, 1874. It is also the final burial ground for several U.S. soldiers who fought in World War II. It is appropriate to honor these veterans on this day.
Justification: Every year since 2008, Congress proclaims a Saturday in December as National Wreaths Across America Day. The intent is for volunteers to place wreaths in cemeteries across the country to remember the fallen, honor their service, and teach the next generation about the value of freedom. Such a program is appropriate to honor these veterans on this day.
12.10 Floral and Commemorative Tributes
Specific regulations regarding flowers and commemorative tributes apply in Vicksburg National Cemetery.
• Fresh cut flowers may be placed on graves at any time. Temporary, non-breakable flower vases must be used and are available upon request.
• Coins and other metal objects are not permitted to be placed on headstones or monuments; these objects can cause staining of the stone surfaces.
• Artificial flowers and potted plants shall be permitted on graves 10 days before through 10 days after Easter Sunday and Memorial Day.
• Small American flags are permitted only during the weekend prior to and on Memorial Day. A permit is required for any other type of flag.
• During the Christmas season, Christmas wreaths, floral grave blankets and other floral arrangements shall be permitted commencing December 1 and allowed to remain on the grave through January 20 of each year. Grave floral blankets shall not be larger in size than two by three feet (2' x 3').
• All other objects are prohibited and will be removed by cemetery personnel whenever found on a grave or elsewhere in the Cemetery.
• Permanent below ground floral containers may not be used. Existing containers will not be maintained.
• Floral items and other types of decorations shall not be secured or attached to the headstone or commemorative monument.
• Park staff will remove floral items when they become faded or unsightly. All other permitted items will be removed at the discretion of park staff.
MAP 1 First Amendment Area – Visitor Center (Clay Street)