Despite morale-sapping staff layoffs, bizarre executive orders and a 43-day federal government shutdown last fall, the grandeur and serenity of national parks in California remain irresistible to outdoors lovers looking to unwind. “This administration is actively erasing the history, science and culture that our national parks protect,” said Emily Douce, deputy vice president for government affairs for the nonprofit National Parks Conservation Assn . “The enduring popularity of America’s national parks is not surprising,” Douce added. The National Park Service is routinely ranked among the most admired branches of the large and sprawling federal government. National Park Service officials did not respond to emails requesting comment on California’s 2025 attendance.

Source: Los Angeles Times March 14, 2026 17:30 UTC