A surge in visitation has left many national parks overcrowded and understaffed, with some parks seeing record-breaking numbers of visitors. Yellowstone National Park, for example, reported a new visitation record in May, with jammed parking lots and delays.

Causes of the Surge

The increase in visitation is attributed to a combination of factors, including social media exposure and a sustained trend of growing interest in national parks. According to Casey Wichman, an associate professor at Georgia Tech, social media has played a significant role in driving visitation to popular national parks, with parks like Joshua Tree seeing significant increases in visitation after social media became more popular in the mid-2010s.

However, the surge in visitation has also put a strain on park resources and infrastructure. Many parks are struggling to keep up with the increased demand, with some parks experiencing delays and overcrowding. The National Park Service has eliminated timed-entry and reservation systems, which has led to chaos and unpredictability for visitors.

Impact on Visitors and Staff

The overcrowding has affected not only visitors but also park staff. The National Park Service has lost nearly 25% of its permanent staff, according to an analysis by the National Parks Conservation Association. The loss of staff has led to a decline in the quality of services and experiences for visitors.

Visitors have reported long lines, crowded trails, and overwhelmed park facilities. Some visitors have even compared the experience to visiting Disney World or being stuck in traffic in Los Angeles during rush hour.

Despite the challenges, many visitors remain enthusiastic about their experiences in national parks. Michele Treacy, a visitor to Mount Rushmore National Memorial, said that the park’s natural beauty and historical significance made the visit worthwhile, despite the crowds.

Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.