The National Park Service is facing a severe staffing crisis during peak travel season, with layoffs and departures driven by pressure from the Trump administration leaving many park sites understaffed. At least one park in Colorado has had all its custodial staff fired, forcing other employees to take on their duties. The remaining workers are now handling the work of two or three people, creating an overwhelming workload.
This staffing shortage is having a noticeable impact on park operations and visitor experiences. In Yosemite National Park, a custodian was seen cleaning bathrooms in February, highlighting the strain on remaining staff. The situation is particularly concerning as millions of visitors are expected to flock to national parks during the season, with the service struggling to maintain basic cleanliness and maintenance standards.
Industry experts warn that the current staffing levels are unsustainable and could lead to a further decline in service quality. While the administration has not provided a clear plan to address the staffing crisis, some officials are calling for immediate action to prevent a complete collapse of park operations. The situation is seen as a direct consequence of the Trump administration’s policies on federal employment and budget allocations.