Napa, Ca.– Thousands of campsites across California’s national forests could close this summer due to significant staffing shortages caused by recent cuts within the U.S. Forest Service, according to a report by the New York Times.
The report, published Wednesday, highlights the potential shutdown of up to 4,000 campsites within the state’s 18 national forests, leaving many outdoor enthusiasts wondering about the future of affordable camping, hiking, and off-roading options across California. These forests are not only home to some of the state’s most beloved natural landscapes but also offer vital resources for environmental conservation, wildfire prevention, and emergency services.
The situation stems from a February decision by the Trump administration to fire 2,000 federal workers within the U.S. Forest Service. These cuts are part of broader budget reductions and staffing changes that have reverberated through public lands management agencies. The Forest Service workers who were let go performed crucial tasks such as maintaining campgrounds, cleaning restrooms, conducting safety and rescue operations, and running visitor education programs.
California, which has more national forests than any other state, is especially vulnerable to these cuts. With nearly 21 million acres of the Golden State’s land designated as national forest, the looming closures would impact a significant portion of the state’s natural resources. These areas, from the towering trees of Sequoia National Forest to the shores of Lake Tahoe, serve as popular destinations for both locals and tourists alike.
In a memo reviewed by the New York Times, supervisors within the Forest Service were instructed to identify public facilities that could be closed due to staffing shortages and budgetary constraints. The memo, dated February 18, pointed out that “unforeseen impacts and changed conditions” could make certain sites “unsafe or too challenging to open to full capacity in 2025.”
The move has sparked outrage among environmentalists, outdoor enthusiasts, and local communities who rely on the forests for recreation and livelihoods. California’s national forests are often the backdrop for family camping trips, outdoor education, and other recreational activities that introduce city-dwelling children to the natural world. With the closure of thousands of campsites, these opportunities could be severely limited.
While some hope that the backlash may prompt a reevaluation of the cuts, the future remains uncertain. President Donald Trump’s administration has faced heavy criticism over the staffing cuts, especially within agencies like the Forest Service and National Park Service. In some cases, the administration has backed off plans to eliminate seasonal staff in national parks, but it remains unclear if similar actions will be taken regarding the Forest Service.
For now, the fate of California’s national forests remains in flux. With financial limitations and a significant reduction in staff, many are left questioning how the state’s national forests will continue to serve the public in 2025 and beyond.
As the summer months approach, the closure of campsites would not only disrupt recreation but also hamper efforts to prevent wildfires, protect wildlife, and maintain critical public lands. For many, these forests are more than just a place to camp—they are a vital part of California’s identity and natural heritage.