Yosemite National Park is experiencing significant overcrowding and logistical challenges following the termination of its entry reservation system in 2026. The change, implemented after a federal order from Interior Secretary Doug Burgman in April 2025 mandating national parks remain open and accessible, has been met with widespread criticism from visitors and park employees.
The National Park Service (NPS) had stated that previous data did not necessitate blanket reservations, allowing for dynamic response to conditions. Supporters believed this would increase access to the park. However, critics argue the decision has reintroduced severe gridlock, transforming visits into experiences more akin to navigating a crowded theme park than escaping into nature.
Reports from busy weekends detail hours-long queues at entrance gates, parking lots filled before noon, and overcrowded shuttle buses. Social media platforms have been flooded with images of congested parking areas, extensive traffic backups, and packed viewpoints. This surge in visitation, coupled with reported staff shortages and reduced wages for maintenance personnel due to federal cutbacks, has exacerbated employee burnout and created significant challenges for park management.
A March 2026 survey by the Yosemite Union indicated that 85 percent of responding employees disapproved of Superintendent Ray McPadden's decision to eliminate the reservation system. Workers predicted that removing entry limits would lead to increased frustration among visitors, which would then be directed at park staff. Over 300 staff members have since signed a petition calling for the reversal of the decision, citing concerns about potential delays for emergency vehicles, damage to fragile meadows from illegal roadside parking, and a severely degraded visitor experience.
Former park staff have also voiced concerns. Don Neubacher, who served as Yosemite superintendent from 2010 to 2016, called the situation "fraught with problems" and described the period around Memorial Day as "out of control," dismissing park statements of normalcy as "propaganda."
Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff have publicly questioned the National Park Service regarding the elimination of reservations. In a letter to Secretary Burgman and Acting NPS Director Jessica Bowron, they expressed fears for the park's ability to manage visitation safely and protect its resources during peak summer months, noting that "overcrowding, vehicle congestion, limited parking, and long lines have long been issues that diminish what should be a world-class experience."
Federal officials have stated that rangers are actively monitoring traffic, directing vehicles, and encouraging visitors to explore less crowded areas and to avoid weekends. A spokesperson for the Department of the Interior reported that during the July 4 holiday, a typically busy period, traffic remained free-flowing with short wait times at entrances and on shuttle systems. The spokesperson noted that temporary delays can occur but do not reflect typical park operations.
Despite these assurances, residents and former officials remain skeptical, fearing Yosemite is losing its intrinsic natural appeal due to unchecked popularity. Reports have also emerged of bears being hit by vehicles, raising further safety concerns for both wildlife and visitors.