Bulk of Historic Park Is Closed

The majority of the 160-acre Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park was closed to the public indefinitely Friday to prevent further damage to its cultural and natural resources.

The park’s rock formations -- in an area called Piute Butte -- are popular with many people, including rock climbers and off-road vehicle enthusiasts, who have spray-painted rocks and cut fences, said museum curator Edra Moore.

Public access to the museum, located about 20 miles east of Lancaster, and a half-mile nature trail will be allowed during the museum’s open season from mid-September to mid-June.

The museum, located about 20 miles east of Lancaster, and a half-mile nature trail are normally closed in the summer. Access to those areas will be allowed from mid-September to mid-June.