As warmer months bring a surge in visitors to America’s national parks, the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) is warning that the 2025 season may be shaped by staff shortages, closures, and increased safety risks, all linked to significant budget reductions.
A blog post published by the independent non-profit organization warns that recent budget decisions under the Trump administration are exacerbating long-standing resource shortages at America’s most cherished public lands.
Why It Matters
In 2024, U.S. national parks experienced a record 331.8 million visits, in a testament to their enduring appeal.
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Despite their popularity, national parks have long struggled with aging infrastructure and limited personnel. These challenges are exacerbated by a backlog of maintenance projects estimated in the billions of dollars and worsening impacts from wildfires, floods, and other climate-related events.
What To Know
President Donald Trump‘s administration has been conducting mass layoffs across the federal government, including at the National Park Service (NPS).
The post, written by a former National Park Service ranger, warns that there will be both obvious and more obscure challenges presented by the cuts.
The NPCA, which acts as an advocate and watchdog for the NPS, and is not linked to the government, notes that many facilities may have to make do with reduced staffing and operating hours, which may affect queue times, search-and-rescue capacity, and educational outreach programs.
Parkgoers could also notice a restrictions on both guided and unguided tours, as week as losses or limitations to visitors centers, which house cultural objects and educational exhibits.
Visitors may also encounter “unseen” effects, such as impacts to science and archaeological opportunities.
What People Are Saying
A spokesperson for the Department of the Interior told Newsweek: “The National Park Service is hiring seasonal workers to continue enhancing the visitor experience as we embrace new opportunities for optimization and innovation in workforce management. We are focused on ensuring that every visitor has the chance to explore and connect with the incredible, iconic spaces of our national parks.
“NPS is working closely with the Office of Personnel Management to ensure we are prioritizing fiscal responsibility for the American people. As always, NPS will continue to provide critical services and deliver excellent customer service.
“Our teams are dedicated to staffing to meet the evolving needs of our visitors, ensuring memorable and meaningful experiences for all.”
What Happens Next
In its update, the NPCA encourages travelers to plan ahead and prepare for changes, including the possibility of altered access to roads, trails, visitor centers, and services.