What’s Happening to National Parks in 2025? A Look at Recent Changes
What’s Going on With Our National Parks?
2025 has brought a wave of shake-ups to the National Park System—staff layoffs, name changes, and even the potential for more commercial development in some of our most beloved landscapes. What does this mean for park lovers like us? And more importantly, what can we do to keep these spaces thriving?
“Staying on top of the latest changes in national parks helps visitors, nature lovers, and adventure seekers stay in the know—and take action to keep these incredible places protected.”
The Current Park Shake-Up: What’s Happening & Why It Matters
The National Park Service is facing serious challenges in 2025. From staffing shortages to increased visitor fees, these changes could impact how we experience the great outdoors. Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening and why it’s a big deal.
What’s at Stake for Our National Parks?
Fewer rangers, less conservation funding, and increased commercialization mean that some of the wild spaces we cherish could look very different in the future. But if we pay attention and take action, we can help keep these parks protected for future generations.
5 Major Changes to National Parks in 2025, So Far
1. National Park Service Layoffs Mean Fewer Rangers
More than 1,000 park employees have been laid off, leaving fewer staff members to maintain trails, assist visitors, and protect natural and cultural sites.
Ex-ranger on how Trump’s mass government firings are affecting the National Park Service. - PBS News
2. National Landmark Name Changes Stir Debate
The administration has reinstated old names for major landmarks, including changing Denali back to Mount McKinley, causing pushback from Indigenous groups and historians.
President Trump promises to rename the mountain Denali as Mount McKinley - NPR
3. Conservation Programs Are on the Chopping Block
Wildlife protection and climate resilience efforts have been put on hold or downsized due to budget cuts, making it harder to safeguard fragile ecosystems.
4. Changes to the Stonewall National Monument Website
The National Park Service removed references to transgender history from the Stonewall National Monument’s official webpage, igniting controversy among LGBTQ+ advocates and historians. Critics argue that the revision erases key elements of the monument’s significance, while officials claim it aligns with broader website content updates.New proposals could allow increased commercial development inside national parks, from private lodging expansions to more corporate-sponsored activities.
Park Service erases 'transgender' on Stonewall website, uses the term 'LGB' movement
5. National Monuments at Risk from Energy Development
On February 20, 2025, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum ordered a review of oil, gas, and mining on public lands, including national monuments.
Parks Group Responds to New Order Threatening National Monuments
What Can We Do to Support National Parks Right Now?
“By showing up, speaking up, and staying engaged, we can show resistance to the actions of this administration.”
Show Up
Visit national parks, explore their beauty, and support local conservation efforts. Bring a doll along for the adventure and share your visit with others!
Speak Up
Post about your experiences on social media, share why national parks matter, and use your voice to raise awareness about park protections.
Stay Engaged
Follow park news to stay informed. A great place to stay updated is the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) at npca.org.
The Importance of Keeping National Parks Protected
Picture yourself standing at Fort McHenry in Baltimore, gazing out over the shimmering waters of the Patapsco River as the sun glistens off the waves. The historic earthworks and cannons stand as a testament to the fort’s pivotal role in the War of 1812, where the resilience of American forces inspired the writing of the Star-Spangled Banner. Walking the grounds, you feel the weight of history under your feet, knowing this site has been preserved for generations to experience.
Fort McHenry is just one of many national park sites that tell the story of America’s past, and protecting these places ensures that future visitors can walk in the footsteps of history. These parks are more than just scenic landscapes—they are the heart of our national heritage, and it’s up to us to keep them safeguarded for generations to come.
FAQs
What national parks are affected by staffing cuts? Many national parks have faced staffing reductions due to budget cuts, including Yosemite, Yellowstone, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. These cuts impact visitor services, maintenance, and conservation efforts.
How do I find updates on park policies? The best source for official updates is the National Park Service website (nps.gov) and organizations like the National Parks Conservation Association (npca.org).
Where can I donate to support conservation efforts? You can donate to organizations dedicated to preserving national parks, such as the National Park Foundation (nationalparks.org) and local Friends of the Park groups that support individual parks.
National parks are America’s best idea—let’s do what we can to make sure they stay that way.
