Trump administration reviews land swap in Yosemite for private developer

The U.S. Department of the Interior is considering a land-swap that would allow a private developer to acquire an 11-mile strip within Yosemite National Park in exchange for other federal land. The swap would enable the developer to build a road linking its existing property in the Stanislaus National Forest to Big Oak Flat Road, a major access route to the park.

The National Park Service has indicated that it cannot sell park land directly but could exchange it for land of equal or greater value, a process permitted under existing law. The Interior Department said any agreement would follow federal procedures, include public involvement, and be transparent.

Democratic senators from California, including Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff, have voiced opposition, arguing that the Land and Water Conservation Fund should prioritize projects based on merit rather than political connections. Padilla said the fund exists to protect natural areas and provide recreation for all Americans.

Kingsbarn Realty Capital, the Nevada-based developer, claims the road would reduce vehicle miles for future residents and describes the proposal as an "environmentally friendly" solution. The firm’s attorney, Lanny Davis, denied that political contributions influence the deal and said the company seeks to build upscale single-family homes on its existing land.

Conservation organizations have criticized the plan, stating that any reduction of Yosemite’s acreage contradicts public sentiment that national parks are not for sale. They argue the swap could increase development pressure, traffic, and wildfire risk in the park.

The White House has referred inquiries about the proposal to the Interior Department, which rejected claims of political pressure and affirmed that no final decision has been made.