Visiting the State and National Parks has become a national pastime. So much nature to see and enjoy!

But visiting in 2025 and beyond may present a few problems that you can help solve with a little effort.

Our parks and big open spaces are kept open for everyone to enjoy. But during years like this, when Federal cuts and Park employee layoffs have potentially devastated the quality of a visit, it’s up to the visitors to take responsibility and keep the parks as pristine as possible.

What can we, as visitors, do to help?

Simple Acts That Make A Big Difference:

Pack It In, Pack It Out
Intentionally pack an empty garbage bag with you if you are planning a day trip or a multi-day visit to a park. Even if you aren’t in the back country, “Pack it in, pack it out!” is for everyone this year. Bring your trash home with you instead of stuffing it into already full garbage bins in the park. Parks will be short staffed this year, especially when it comes to garbage collection. “Bonus points” for sorting and composting once you get home!

Micro-Cleanups
Join your park clean up days! Or if you can’t, pick up a few bits of litter while you hike. It all adds up.

Plan Bathroom Breaks Wisely
Use restrooms before arriving for a day hike or park visit. Learn “Leave No Trace” bathroom etiquette. Always leave the bathroom a little cleaner than you found it and if it’s already in deplorable shape, don’t add to it. Carry hand sanitizer wipes with you – you can wipe off the toilet seats with them before AND after use.

Skip the Fire, Use a Stove
Avoid making a fire – especially during dry seasons – to reduce fire risk and eliminate the need for firewood collection or ashes cleanup. Starting in January of 2028, propane cannisters must be refillable in the state of California to reduce the danger of recycling them.

Bring What You Need
Don’t rely on park amenities that might be shut down. Bring your own water and food. Be careful about relying on park resources like drinking fountains or food vendors to be open. Do your research! Also, refillable water jugs and reusable containers also reduce waste.

Donate or Volunteer
Even a small donation to the National Park Foundation or a Friends of [Park Name] group helps cover maintenance or emergency staffing gaps. Some parks welcome volunteers for trail repair, visitor education, or cleanups and often offer a free campsite for the night – although that is not a given and is usually written with the call for volunteers notice.

Respect Wildlife and Trails
Help protect fragile ecosystems and avoid disturbing animals, especially when fewer rangers are around to monitor behavior. Stay on marked paths, don’t feed animals — this helps maintain balance when staff is limited.

Be Self-Reliant
Know your route, carry a map and first aid kit, and don’t depend on ranger assistance. A first-aid kit, extra water, and a portable charger go a long way too.

Spread the Word
Post about your eco-friendly trip, and inspire others to follow suit. Spread awareness on social media or among your friends about these actions. Lead by example.

Can you think of any other actions that might help out the park systems this year? Post them in the comments below!