Check camping options on USACE lands with this new website

TOPEKA (KSNT) - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is rolling out a new online resource to keep people updated on camping and recreational options amid a federal hiring freeze.

The USACE announced in a press release on May 23 that it has created a Recreation Operational Status website to help keep people informed about changing recreational options at the reservoirs it manages. People can use the website to check in on the status of camping and other related recreational opportunities at lakes nationwide.

“The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages staffing for our Recreation mission to ensure we meet the needs of nearly 2,600 recreation areas across 400 lakes and waterways,” said Stephen L. Hill, USACE director of Operations and Regulatory Programs. “In response to current staffing levels, we have launched the Recreation Operational Status webpage to provide the public with the most current information available about the operational status of recreation areas before visiting."

The USACE reported earlier this year that recreational opportunities may be limited this year due to a federal hiring freeze, which has resulted in seasonal staffing shortages across the country. This forced the agency to close camping areas at various reservoirs across states like Kansas ahead of the summer season.

“Public safety and service quality continue to be our highest priorities," Hill said. "As we manage available resources, some sites may experience reduced operations or temporary closures.  These difficult decisions are based on our ability to ensure visitors have a safe and consistent experience.”

People can use the Recreation Operational Status website to check on the condition of campgrounds, boat ramps and beaches, which may be displayed as open, partially open or closed. The website shouldn't be used to check for information about state, local or vendor-managed parks, campgrounds, marinas or related facilities on USACE project lands. You can find the website by clicking here.

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