6 Ways to Support U.S. National Parks During Budget Cuts

U.S. National Parks Face Crisis Amid Budget Cuts—Here’s How You Can Help

As staffing shortages and funding cuts put public lands at risk, here are six tangible ways to support U.S. national parks—from near or far.

America’s national parks are more than scenic escapes—they are vital sanctuaries of nature, history, and public memory. But these beloved landscapes are now facing serious threats.

In early 2025, widespread budget cuts under the Trump administration led to the termination of roughly 1,000 probationary employees in the National Park Service (NPS). Seasonal hiring has also been frozen just as parks enter their busiest time of year. With record-breaking visitation numbers—331.9 million in 2024 alone—this comes at a precarious moment.

Expect shorter hours, scaled-back programs, maintenance delays, and increased pressure on remaining staff. For travelers, this means that your visit has never mattered more—not just for your own experience, but for the future of these protected places.

Here’s how you can help safeguard U.S. national parks—whether you’re planning a trip or supporting from home.

1. Be a Responsible Visitor

With fewer rangers to manage crowds and protect delicate ecosystems, your behavior matters more than ever.

Stay on designated trails to prevent erosion and habitat damage.
Pack out all trash, even if bins are nearby.
Give wildlife space—no selfies with elk or snacks for squirrels.

These small acts of personal stewardship make a big difference when staffing is stretched thin.

2. Avoid Overcrowded Parks—Explore Lesser-Known Gems

Parks like Yellowstone, Zion, and Grand Canyon are experiencing severe congestion. Instead, consider supporting equally beautiful but under-visited parks:

Great Basin National Park, Nevada – Known for ancient bristlecone pines and some of the darkest skies in the U.S.
North Cascades National Park, Washington – Glacier-fed lakes and rugged trails just hours from Seattle.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas – Dramatic desert hikes and the highest peak in the Lone Star State.

Traveling during weekdays or shoulder seasons can also reduce strain on park infrastructure and give you a more peaceful experience.

3. Donate to Conservation and Park Foundations

Entrance fees account for only a fraction of what it takes to run a national park. Private donations are essential—especially now.

Here are organizations where your contribution makes a real impact:

National Park Foundation – Supports everything from trail repair to cultural preservation.
The Conservation Alliance – Funds grassroots efforts to protect wild lands.
[Friends Groups (e.g., Friends of Acadia, Grand Teton Foundation)] – Directly support individual parks.
Native Land Conservancy or Indian Land Tenure Foundation – Support Indigenous-led conservation work.

Bonus tip: Buy your gear or souvenirs from official park stores or brands like Parks Project, which donates a portion of profits to public land initiatives.

4. Volunteer—Virtually or In-Person

If you’re able to give your time, consider becoming a national park volunteer. The NPS offers a wide range of opportunities:

Single-day projects (trail cleanups, invasive species removal)
Multi-week residencies (education, visitor services)
Artist-in-residence programs through the National Parks Arts Foundation

Search roles at Volunteer.gov or check out organizations like the Student Conservation Association for youth-focused programs.

5. Support Local and Inclusive Communities

Parks don’t exist in a vacuum—they’re tied to the small communities and tribal lands that surround them.

Stay local: Book rooms in family-owned inns, dine at small cafes, and hire regional guides.
Buy local: Purchase handmade goods from nearby artisans or markets.
Tip well: Service workers in gateway towns depend on tourism.

Support inclusion-focused nonprofits like:

Outdoor Afro – Empowering Black connections to nature.
Indigenous Women Hike – Elevating Indigenous voices and narratives.
Disabled Hikers – Promoting accessibility and representation in the outdoors.

6. Advocate for Public Lands

National parks are shaped by policy—and your voice can drive meaningful change.

Use tools provided by organizations like:

National Parks Conservation Association
Outdoor Alliance

These groups make it easy to send letters to lawmakers advocating for:

Restoration of park staffing and seasonal jobs
Increased conservation funding
Environmental protections and climate resilience
Inclusive storytelling and Indigenous stewardship in public lands

Stay informed, and speak up when legislation threatens (or supports) the places you love.

Now Is the Time to Show Up for National Parks

From the granite cliffs of Yosemite to the stargazing sanctuaries of Great Basin, America’s national parks are facing unprecedented challenges. Whether you give time, money, or mindful attention, your support matters more than ever.

Stay tuned to The Horizons Times for ongoing coverage of sustainability, conservation, and the future of U.S. public lands. Together, we can help keep these iconic landscapes thriving for generations to come.

Looking for your next park escape? Check out our National Parks Travel Guide for trip ideas, gear tips, and off-the-beaten-path adventures.