The federal shutdown has created an enforcement gap at Yosemite National Park, leading to unauthorized camping, illegal BASE jumping, and climbing violations. A park employee reported that squatters are occupying campgrounds, and only one volunteer ranger is currently on duty, exacerbating the disorder. The Department of the Interior acknowledged the reports and is investigating, emphasizing that critical functions like law enforcement will remain active despite the funding lapse.
The employee described the situation as increasingly chaotic, with individuals believing they can act without consequences due to the lack of rangers. The Department of the Interior confirmed awareness of the reports and is investigating, emphasizing that critical functions like law enforcement will remain operational to protect public safety and resources. The department also highlighted that while most park areas will remain accessible, the absence of dedicated staff has led to a rise in violations.
Videos and images circulating on social media show BASE jumpers leaping from El Capitan, unauthorized campers occupying closed campgrounds, and climbers scaling Half Dome’s cables without permits — all in violation of park regulations. BASE jumping has been banned in national parks since the 1980s, but the lack of enforcement has allowed enthusiasts to continue their activities in secret, often at dawn or dusk to avoid detection.
Conservation advocates have pointed to past instances of similar incidents during the 2018–19 shutdown, when parks faced vandalism, illegal off-roading, and waste accumulation that took months to address. Emily Thompson, executive director of the Coalition to Protect America’s National Parks, warned that the current shutdown is worsening an already dire situation, with the risk of further damage increasing as the funding crisis continues.
The National Parks Conservation Association reported that nearly 25% of the Park Service’s permanent staff has been lost since January, leaving many parks, including Yosemite, without enough personnel to ensure visitor safety or respond to emergencies. While the Department of the Interior has maintained that most park areas will remain accessible, the reality is that the shortage of staff poses a significant threat to both the environment and visitor experiences.
As the federal shutdown continues, the situation at Yosemite highlights the broader consequences of government funding lapses. Despite the commitment to keep parks open, the lack of adequate resources has led to a breakdown in enforcement, allowing dangerous and illegal activities to thrive. This has raised concerns among conservationists and park advocates, who argue that without proper staffing and funding, the safety and integrity of national parks are at risk.