America’s 1st Theme Park Reportedly Allowing ICE into Park, Raids Expected on Families

As nationwide protests swell in response to escalating federal immigration enforcement, a concerning new thread on Reddit is warning visitors that Knott’s Berry Farm—the historic California theme park often touted as “America’s first”—may be preparing to cooperate with federal immigration authorities.

In a now-viral post, a Reddit user alleged that Knott’s Berry Farm management “is working with I.C.E. and will be allowing I.C.E. onto the property and into the parks in the coming days and weeks.” The message closed with an urgent note: “Be careful. Be cautious.”

The original poster further expanded on the situation in a follow-up comment, warning, “It’s scary times and Knott’s management are scary people who do scary things because of their politics. Be CAREFUL. If you see something at the park and you feel uncomfortable LEAVE. Knott’s security is very much involved. The head of security Michael Bagosian is a dick and thinks all of what’s going on is funny.”

The same commenter pointed to the park’s long-standing conservative reputation as potential context for the alleged collaboration, stating, “Because of their politics refers to the fact that Knott’s Berry Farm is a ridiculously conservative business, literally why they have an entire Independence Hall across the street… Everything they do is political. Take my warning to be cautious how you want. Just know that you were told. If you choose to ignore what I’m warning you about, that’s on you.”

While there is no official confirmation from Knott’s Berry Farm or Cedar Fair, the company that owns the park, the rumor has caused immediate concern among immigrant families and undocumented parkgoers who fear an increased risk of detainment in what should be a recreational setting.

A Regional Pattern of Escalation

This development follows growing anxiety in Southern California around Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) presence in public spaces. Just days ago, ICE agents were reportedly spotted in the vicinity of Disneyland Resort, further fueling suspicion that major tourist destinations are becoming targets for immigration enforcement visibility, if not direct action.

The Reddit post appears in the midst of a much broader, volatile situation playing out in Los Angeles and surrounding counties. President Trump’s deployment of approximately 700 active-duty Marines to Southern California, along with 2,100 members of the California National Guard, has drawn swift condemnation from state leaders including Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. Both have labeled the moves as unconstitutional, politically motivated, and dangerous.

According to Pentagon statements, the Marines and federalized National Guard troops were sent to “assist” in maintaining federal order and protecting property in the wake of mass protests against ICE raids. Protesters have been demonstrating since last weekend, particularly after dozens of immigrants were arrested in coordinated raids in L.A.’s Fashion District and other locations.

Critics—including Rep. Maxine Waters and former Vice President Kamala Harris—have called the ICE operations and military deployment a “dangerous provocation” and part of an intentional campaign to sow chaos and fear in sanctuary cities like Los Angeles.

Sanctuary Policies, Federal Overreach, and the Disneyland Comparison

Related: Guests Scared of Universal Studios Vacation After ICE Raids

While California’s Values Act (SB 54) generally prohibits local cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, the federal government’s use of military and Guard personnel—some of whom may be accompanying ICE—raises red flags about how far enforcement efforts may extend. U.S. Northern Command has said Title 10 Guardsmen “can and have accompanied ICE on missions, but they are not a part of operations.”

That blurred line may be what worries many following the Knott’s Reddit thread. A theme park is a particularly sensitive place for enforcement activity, especially as families from all backgrounds gather to relax and escape from the real world. Even the unconfirmed presence of ICE agents, much less active detainments, could foster panic among vulnerable communities.

Meanwhile, Disneyland has not confirmed the ICE activity observed nearby. No enforcement actions have been reported on Disneyland property, but the mere proximity of ICE to Anaheim earlier this week was enough to spur discussions online.

What Happens Next?

Without a public statement from Knott’s Berry Farm or an independent verification of the Reddit claims, the situation remains murky—but troubling. The timing of the post, paired with national events, suggests the park should be transparent about its relationship with federal authorities, especially if it has a security agreement with DHS or ICE.

Calls for clarity are mounting, particularly among civil rights groups. Legal observers warn that private property owners, including theme parks, are not obligated to allow ICE agents access to non-public areas unless served with a proper warrant. If the rumors are true, Knott’s Berry Farm may be setting a controversial precedent.

The fear is real, and so is the responsibility: a park with deep historical roots in American nostalgia may find itself at the center of one of the most polarizing debates in the country today.

For now, the warning stands: be aware, be cautious—and, if needed, stay away.