Final answer:
Yellowstone National Park was closed in October 2013 and December 2018 due to federal government shutdowns caused by budgetary standoffs in Congress, which led to a funding lapse for national parks.
Step-by-step explanation:
In October 2013, visitors planning to enjoy the natural wonders of Yellowstone National Park were met with disappointment, as the park's gates were closed. The reason for this unforeseen closure was due to a federal government shutdown. This shutdown occurred because of a budgetary impasse in Congress, leading to a lapse in funding for many governmental operations, including national parks.
Similarly, in December 2018, visitors experienced the same situation when a government shutdown once again forced Yellowstone and other federal sites to cease operations temporarily. These events underscore the importance of these natural areas to the public and highlight how political decisions can directly affect access to national resources and recreational areas.