USACE recreation fees increased

WASHINGTON D.C. — New recreation day use fees began Jan. 1 for all boat launches and swimming beaches managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

"Some locations may also see a change in camping fees and the fee for a Special Use Permit, which covers events, facilities and activities," information states. "USACE conducted a review of its fee structure (in 2015) and determined that fee changes are needed to ensure USACE fees remain comparable and fair to those charged by other local providers for similar facilities and services."


The fee structure will vary according to the comparability study but minimum fees have been set: $5 will be charged per private non-commercial vehicle; $2 per adult for walk-in or bike-in; $20 per bus or commercial vehicle; and children younger than 16 are not charged a day use fee. An annual day use pass may be purchased for $40 and permits the holder and accompanying passengers the daily use of facilities managed by USACE for one calendar year.

"Payment of the day use fee entities the user to launch a boat or use any developed swimming beach at a USACE-operated recreation area for the day," information states,

Additional information on the fees for day use and campsite increases is available by calling the Rend Lake Project Office/Visitor Center at 724-2493 or online by searching the directory of project offices at www.CorpsLakes.us

And some Rend COE campground ramps are closed 5 months a year. Give em a call or better yet a visit in person as I do.