California national parks set attendance record, despite controversy

"The nine national parks in the Golden State - including Yosemite, Death Valley and Joshua Tree - attracted nearly 12 million recreational visits in 2025, according to statistics from the National Park Service. That's up more than 800,000 visits from 2024 and up more than 300,000 from the previous record set in 2019, according to the data, which stretches back to 1979."

"Despite morale-sapping staff layoffs, bizarre executive orders and a 43-day federal government shutdown last fall, the grandeur and serenity of national parks in California remain irresistible to outdoors lovers looking to unwind."

"Since Trump resumed office in January 2025, his administration has slashed the NPS workforce by nearly a quarter, buying out or laying off hundreds of rangers, maintenance workers, scientists and administrative staff across the country."

California's nine national parks, including Yosemite, Death Valley, and Joshua Tree, attracted nearly 12 million recreational visits in 2025, surpassing the previous record by over 300,000 visits. Yosemite alone logged 4.3 million visits. This milestone occurred despite significant operational challenges including a 43-day federal government shutdown, staff layoffs reducing the National Park Service workforce by nearly a quarter, and administration directives to remove historical content from park displays. Nationally, parks received 323 million visits, though this represented a slight decline from 2024 records. The enduring popularity of these natural spaces demonstrates continued public affection for America's protected landscapes.

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