National Park Visits Decline in 2025, Impacting Lynchburg's Closest Parks
In 2025, American national parks experienced a 2.7% decrease in visitors, marking the first decline since 2020. This trend affects parks near Lynchburg, Virginia, such as Shenandoah National Park and New River Gorge National Park. Shenandoah, located 93 miles from Lynchburg, saw 1.68 million visitors, while New River Gorge, 113 miles away, attracted nearly 2 million visitors. The National Park Service, established in 1916, oversees 63 national parks that protect endangered species, archaeological sites, and extensive trails. Despite the decline, parks remain vital for showcasing the nation's natural beauty and cultural heritage. 
