California’s national parks are experiencing a surge in popularity, with Yosemite National Park at the forefront, drawing millions of visitors despite mounting operational pressures across the United States.
In 2025, the state’s nine national parks — including Joshua Tree National Park and Death Valley National Park — attracted nearly 12 million recreational visits, according to the National Park Service.
That total marks an increase of more than 800,000 visits compared to 2024 and surpasses the previous record set in 2019, highlighting continued demand for outdoor travel experiences.
A travel boom despite pressure
Nationally, US parks recorded 323 million visits in 2025. While slightly below the record set in 2024, the numbers remain among the highest ever recorded.
This growth comes despite significant operational challenges. Since early 2025, the national park workforce has been reduced, with cuts affecting rangers, maintenance crews, scientists, and administrative staff.
Even with these constraints, travellers continue to flock to parks, drawn by their accessibility and natural appeal.
Yosemite leads visitor numbers
Yosemite National Park remains the most visited in California, recording 4.3 million visits in 2025. Its iconic landscapes — granite cliffs, waterfalls, and vast valleys — continue to attract both domestic and international travellers.
Other major parks also saw strong numbers:
Joshua Tree National Park: 2.9 million visits
Death Valley National Park: 1.3 million visits
Together, these destinations highlight the diversity of California’s natural attractions, from alpine scenery to desert landscapes.
Affordable and in demand
Part of the continued growth lies in affordability. Entry fees remain relatively low, with US residents paying between $20 and $35 per vehicle for a day pass, or $80 for an annual pass.
However, recent changes have increased costs for international visitors, with annual passes now priced at $250.
The scale of demand is striking. In 2025, total visits to US national parks — 323 million — more than doubled the combined attendance at major professional sports leagues.
What travellers should expect
For visitors, rising demand means planning ahead is more important than ever. Popular parks like Yosemite can experience congestion, limited parking, and crowded trails during peak seasons.
At the same time, reduced staffing levels may affect services and infrastructure in some areas.
Despite these challenges, the appeal remains strong. Yosemite and California’s national parks continue to offer one of the most accessible and rewarding travel experiences in the country — combining natural beauty with relatively low costs, even as demand reaches new highs.
