<h2>TikTok’s Tikatnik para TikTiktok’s Rinkatami
Rocks and joshua tree at sundown
Nature is Sexy; Budget Cuts Aren’t
Far beyond the racy adult content, and beneath the humorous memes, lies a unifying purpose behind the trending TikTok videos showcasing cascading waterfalls, colossal trees, seductive deserts, and enchanting wildlife.
Researchers have noted that national parks are crucial for conserving biodiversity and supporting people’s well-being. US national parks saw a record 332 million recreation visits last year.
The Trump administration’s 2026 budget plan includes slashing over $1 billion from the National Park Service, threatening to axe $33 billion from national recreation management programs and conservation grants.
The National Parks Conservation Association warns that the proposed budget reductions are the largest cuts to the National Park Service in its 109-year history and could decimate at least 350 National Park sites.
Getting Wild for the Wild
TikTok creators, some of whom are former park employees, span the political spectrum but share a common goal: to conserve and protect public lands.
The #ParkTok and #MountainTok trends aren’t overtly partisan or activist-driven. Instead, they work on a subconscious level, prompting viewers to appreciate the national parks and their own experiences with them.
A Bridge over Troubled Water
While some critics accuse creators of trying to monetize a legitimate cause or damaging the parks’ reputations, the creators insist their intention is not to make money.
Jaime Wash, creator behind the Mount Hood fan account, plans to donate any potential earnings to the parks.
The Mount Hood fan account brought out followers to Portland’s Hands Off protest, demonstrating the community’s commitment to protecting the parks.
The Stunning Power of Social Media
Social media acts as a cultural barometer, unveiling public sentiment and broadcasting issues that resonate with the public.
Platforms like TikTok give grassroots movements a megaphone, allowing everyday people to bypass traditional media filters and speak directly to broad audiences.
The National Parks Conservation Association encourages people to sign up for alerts on its advocacy page to save the parks.
Creators like Jaime Wash are advocating for ways to hold elected officials accountable and protect the national parks.