PORTLAND, Ore. -- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Portland District, announced schedule and access changes at several recreation areas in Oregon for the upcoming season.
The Dalles Dam Visitor Center: Reduced schedule
Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend
Open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only
Cottage Grove Primitive Campground: Reduced schedule
Beginning May 16
Open Friday and Saturday nights only
Fern Ridge's Kirk Park and Shore Lane Park: Vehicle access will be temporarily restricted
Visitors may still access the parks and restrooms on foot
Note: USACE is actively recruiting volunteers to support operations at these sites and will adjust access as volunteer staffing levels allow.
USACE is experiencing challenges providing recreation activities for the public this year due to resource constraints. These adjustments allow USACE to prioritize visitor safety while managing the sites effectively.
“While USACE is working to minimize impacts to visitor experiences, visitors should expect some changes in service levels, including potential impacts to availability of park rangers and routine maintenance response times,” said Melissa Rinehart, chief of Natural Resources Management for the Portland District. “In the meantime, we’re pursuing options that will allow us to hire, and we’re recruiting volunteers.”
To volunteer, visit https://www.volunteer.gov/s/ and type in “Corps of Engineers Oregon” into the search function/bar. Access and services may expand as volunteer support grows.
Visit the Portland District Recreation page at www.nwp.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/ for the latest updates on closures and operational changes.
Recreation site status may change with limited notice. Visitors are asked to respect all posted closures and associated signage.
“We understand these changes may affect how visitors plan to enjoy these recreation areas,” said Rinehart. “We appreciate the public’s understanding as we strive to balance providing quality recreation opportunities with responsible resource management.”