Visitors are noticing the effects of staff shortages across America’s national parks, following layoffs under President Trump’s administration. Many parks, including Zion and Yosemite, now lack basic services like rangers, trail crews, and educational programs.
These issues stem from the Trump administration’s firing of around 1,000 National Park Service (NPS) employees in what became known as the “Valentine’s Day Massacre.” Though officials promised to hire 7,700 seasonal workers, only about 3,300 have been brought on as of early July — far below the goal.
NPS staffing is now at its lowest level in over 20 years, with total staff down 16.5% from the previous year. Yellowstone saw some increases, but most parks remain severely understaffed, and insiders warn of burnout and safety risks as peak summer crowds arrive.
Hiring delays, lack of leadership (over 100 parks lack a superintendent), and a record-breaking 332 million visitors last year have left the parks overwhelmed.