California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Assembly Bill 618 into law, aiming to improve the campsite reservation system in California state parks. The bill, introduced by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, seeks to deter no-shows and cancellations by implementing penalties and incentives. Starting in 2024, campers who cancel at least seven days before their booking will receive a credit for another reservation, while those who do not show up will forfeit the remainder of their booking. The law also limits the number of days people can stay at the same campsite per year and implements a lottery system for popular campsites. Additionally, low-income park visitors will receive a 25% discount on annual passes.
A former Disney Imagineer and theme park expert, Ryan Harmon, has stated that visiting Disney theme parks has become more stressful and less fun for families due to overcrowding and the reservation system. Harmon explains that despite efforts to spread out the crowd and raise prices, the system using mobile phones to reserve rides and shows often leads to poor experiences for those who do not plan ahead. He suggests capping reservations to allow walk-in guests to enjoy the park without stress. Harmon also criticizes the elimination of the free fast pass and the high prices charged by Disney. However, Disney maintains positive guest experience ratings and strong demand in its theme parks.
Walt Disney World is making changes to its reservation system, with guests who purchase a date-based ticket no longer needing to make a reservation starting Jan. 9, 2024. The theme park will also offer "good-to-go days" for annual passholders and cast members on select days without needing a park reservation. Additionally, guests who purchase a vacation package will be able to add a dining package to their reservation starting Jan. 9, 2024, with two options available: Disney Quick Service Dining Plan or the Disney Dining Plan.
