This news will sting for anyone planning to stay in Joshua Tree National Park anytime soon, but one of its campgrounds is currently closed due to the emergence of some unwelcome visitors.
The Cottonwood area, including its visitor center, parking area, bathrooms and 62 campsites, was closed on Tuesday according to the National Parks Service.
The reason? Increased bee activity.
According to the NPS, the closure was necessary to curb the amount of water moisture that the bees seek during the sweltering summer heat in the desert.
Like other wildlife, the service said, bees seek water as temperatures increase. Due to their size and mobility, however, they can gain access to that water through condensation from air conditioners, sweat and bathrooms, which can result in swarms throughout the park.
As of Thursday morning, the Cottonwood area, located near the southern end of the park, remained closed. There was no word on a potential reopening.