How Social Media Shapes Our Connections to Public Lands

Social media is transforming the way people experience America’s national parks, but it comes with unexpected consequences. The National Park Service (NPS) has garnered attention with its playful Instagram bio, “Don’t pet the fluffy cows,” aimed at highlighting important safety measures. With over 6 million followers, the message is playful yet serious, reminding visitors to stay aware and maintain a safe distance from wildlife.

Matthew Turner, a social media specialist at NPS, emphasizes the importance of visitor awareness. He warns that failing to respect safety protocols can lead to severe consequences, including harm to both people and wildlife. The rise of social media has resulted in increased foot traffic to parks, but it has also fostered a culture of “selfie tourism,” where individuals prioritize picture-perfect moments over their surroundings.

Tragic incidents are becoming more common, often linked to dangerous attempts at capturing the perfect shot. In Yosemite National Park, a couple lost their lives in 2018 while trying to take a photo at Taft Point. Yellowstone National Park has seen multiple bison attacks, at least one involving a tourist attempting to touch a bison while filming. Philip Killbridge, CEO of NatureBridge, an organization dedicated to outdoor education, urges visitors to understand the risks involved with social media-inspired adventures.

NatureBridge has enabled over a million young individuals to enjoy the outdoors, focusing on experiences beyond peak tourist seasons. Despite their efforts, many parks are now grappling with the effects of overcrowding, leading to strained local economies and higher operational costs for educational programs. Killbridge notes that many visitors come solely to check off iconic locations without truly experiencing them.

“We’re loving our parks to death,” Killbridge states. “But certain areas are suffering more than others.” The goal remains to educate visitors on preserving park integrity. Cynthia Hernandez from NPS underscores the need for responsible tourism and adaptability. “Listen to park rangers,” she advises, highlighting the importance of having a backup plan during busy seasons.

In New Hampshire, the peak fall foliage period has attracted an estimated 3.7 million visitors, resulting in road congestion, crowded trails, and trespassing. To combat these challenges, local communities have taken measures, such as closing roads to non-residents and raising funds to manage increased tourism.

Content creators like Wesley Littlefield are mindful of the impact of social media on popular locations. He stresses the importance of responsible sharing, encouraging others to less popular sites to mitigate environmental damage. “We want these places to remain as beautiful and untouched as possible for future visitors,” he asserts.

Educators like Alice Ford also advocate for long-term, thoughtful engagement with nature over fleeting posts. Being responsible extends beyond merely capturing images; it’s about understanding and respecting the environment. Ford actively seeks lesser-known sites to minimize environmental degradation while educating audiences about sustainable practices.

Social media, while potentially damaging, has been utilized effectively by the National Park Service to promote responsible behavior. Through engaging posts and humor, they aim to educate visitors before they embark on their adventures. Visitors are encouraged to consider the community and environmental impact of their trips.

“I wish there were more respect for both the spaces we visit and each other,” Ford reflects. Responsible visitation is crucial, not only for preserving natural beauty but also for the enjoyment of future explorers.