Yosemite National Park set record visitation numbers during President Obama's historic visit to Yosemite June 17 - 19. The President and First Family celebrated Father's Day weekend with a family trip to Carlsbad Caverns and Yosemite National Parks.

“We are honored to host the President and First Family and we remain committed, as always, to serving every visitor to Yosemite,” said Don Neubacher, Park Superintendent.

President John F. Kennedy, with California Governor Pat Brown, was the last sitting President to visit Yosemite National Park in 1962.  
 
The President made remarks at Sentinel Bridge and took time to speak with a group of fourth graders about National Parks. During the weekend the First Family enjoyed several activities from hiking the Mist Trail to a rock climbing at Camp 4.

President Obama has protected more than 265 million acres of public lands and waters, more than any other single administration in our country's history.

“We've got more work to do to preserve our lands and our culture and our history.  We're not done yet.” President Obama shared during his speech. He recognized the importance of National Parks. “In all, last year, more than 305 [million] people visited America's national parks.  And for this centennial, we're asking all Americans to Find Your Park so that everyone, including those from underserved communities, can experience these wonders.”  

So far this calendar year, visitation to the park has increased by over 20% from 2015's record visitation.