OMAHA, Neb. -- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha District, will temporarily close or reduce services at multiple recreation areas across Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota and Montana beginning May 1, 2025.
USACE is currently managing seasonal staffing and resource limitations that affect its ability to safely open and maintain all recreation sites at normal levels of service. These temporary adjustments are being made to ensure visitor safety, protect environmental resources and sustain critical hydropower and dam operations across the Missouri River Basin.
“We understand these closures may disrupt plans, and we sincerely appreciate the public’s flexibility as we take the necessary steps to provide safe and sustainable recreation experiences this summer,” said Col. Robert J. Newbauer, Omaha District commander.
Recreation Impacts Starting May 1, 2025
Campground Closures
The following campgrounds will be fully or partially closed for the 2025 season:
- East Totten Trail Campground, N.D.
- Wolf Creek Campground, N.D.
- Hazelton Campground, N.D.
- Cattail Bay authorized camping area, N.D.
- North Shore Campground, S.D.
- Beaver Creek Campground (partial loop closure), N.D.
These closures will also impact supporting services, including contract janitorial, refuse, mowing, park attendant, fire ring cleaning and weed control. USACE will post closure signage at each location and process full refunds for any reservations through Recreation.gov.
Day Use Area Closures and Reductions
Several comfort stations and vault toilets will be closed at day use areas, including:
- Good Soldier Day Use/Boat Ramp, S.D. – one vault toilet closed
- North Shore Beach Day Use/Boat Ramp, S.D. – one comfort station and one vault toilet closed
- Old Fort Thompson, S.D. – one comfort station closed
- Left Tailrace, S.D. – one comfort station and one vault toilet closed
Visitor Center Impacts
Educational and interpretive programs at the following visitor centers will be affected:
- Fort Peck Interpretive Center and Museum, Mont. – reduced to one day per week (from five)
- Oahe Visitor Center, S.D. – closed
- Fort Randall Visitor Center, S.D. – closed
- Lewis and Clark Visitor Center at Gavins Point, Neb. – reduced hours (Wednesday-Saturday)
Powerhouse Tour Suspensions
Powerhouse tours at the following project sites will be suspended beginning mid-May:
- Garrison, N.D.
- Oahe, S.D.
- Fort Randall, S.D.
- Big Bend, S.D.
- Fort Peck, Mont. – available only during Fort Peck Interpretive Center hours
Maintenance and Safety Reductions
Due to limited seasonal staffing, the following service reductions will be in effect:
- Safety patrols reduced, especially during peak weekends and holidays
- Janitorial services for comfort stations and trash removal reduced from seven days to an average of three per week
Plan Ahead
Visitors are encouraged to verify the status of recreation sites before traveling and to consider alternative locations where needed.
Please follow all posted signage and closures. Respecting these limits helps protect public safety and ensures that facilities can reopen more effectively in the future.
Recreate Responsibly
When enjoying the outdoors, remember to:
- Know before you go - check weather, site status and safety alerts
- Bring the essentials - including water, maps and a backup plan
- Respect wildlife, fellow visitors and public lands
- Always wear a life jacket when on or near the water
USACE is committed to resuming full services when conditions allow. We thank our visitors, volunteers and partners for their continued support and understanding.