U.S. Army Corps of Engineers preparing for possible October 1 closures of campgrounds and day-use parks

Vicksburg, Miss…The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is preparing for the closure of USACE-operated campgrounds and day-use parks nationwide beginning Tuesday, 1 October 2013, if the potential shutdown of the federal government goes into effect for lack of fiscal 2014 funding legislation.

Affected recreational areas would not reopen until after the shutdown is lifted. Some USACE-operated campgrounds and day-use parks may remain open during the shutdown if visitor service requirements can be met and the public’s safety can be assured.  Visitors are encouraged to contact their local park office or Vicksburg District office for information.  The Vicksburg District regrets the impacts that these closure actions might have on the recreating public currently using or planning to use these facilities. 

In the event of a shutdown, campers who are on site prior to the shutdown going into effect will be required to vacate campgrounds not later than 8 p.m. the following day.  These campers may elect to leave their campsite reservations open for possible use after the shutdown is lifted. Campers will receive a refund for any unused portion of their reservations.

USACE will post current information on the closure and reopening of facilities at www.usace.army.mil and locally on the Vicksburg District’s website. www.mvk.usace.army.mil