Lawless Yosemite Campers Taking Over Campsites During Shutdown

Above, North Pines Campground during the time I was there in 2016. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Back in 2016, I camped for about a week at Yosemite National Park. I made my reservation months in advance online. I camped at North Pine Campground in Yosemite Valley.

Today, things have gone haywire at squatters are unlawfully camping without permit at North Pines Campground. The Schumer Shutdown is being blamed for this.

RV Travel reported:

RV travelers planning a trip to Yosemite should be prepared for challenges, as lawless Yosemite campers are taking advantage of the ongoing government shutdown.

With much of the National Park Service staff furloughed, some visitors are occupying reserved campsites without permits. It’s creating confusion, safety risks, and frustration for those following the rules.

Lawless Yosemite campers are exploiting the shutdown

A San Francisco Chronicle staff member reported that squatters moved into a reserved campsite at North Pines Campground. These falsely claimed the site was “first come, first served” because of the shutdown.

A ranger later intervened to remove the group, highlighting the lawlessness spreading through the park. Yosemite guides and former officials describe the situation as “like the Wild Wild West,” with only a single volunteer currently patrolling some areas.

To read more, go here.