Little Rock, Ark. – The Little Rock District, Corps of Engineers is preparing for the closure of all Corps-operated campgrounds and day-use parks beginning Tuesday, Oct. 1, if the potential shutdown of the federal government goes into effect. Affected recreation areas would not reopen until after the shutdown is lifted.
Corps parks leased to partner agencies and concessionaires will remain open, but cannot be supported by the Corps while the shutdown is in place.
"The Little Rock District regrets the impacts these closure actions might have on the recreating public currently using or planning to use these facilities, and will work to keep the public informed about their availability," said Little Rock District Commander Col. Courtney W. Paul.
Beginning Oct. 1, and continuing through the end of the shutdown, if it goes into effect, no new visitors will be allowed into, or reservations accepted for, Corps recreation facilities. Campers who are on site prior to the shutdown going into effect will be required to vacate campgrounds not later than 8 p.m. on Oct. 2.
In the event of a shutdown, customers may cancel their reservations for a full refund. Customers required to vacate campsites early will receive a partial refund for any unused portion of their reservations. As an alternative, customers may elect to leave reservations open for possible use after the shutdown is lifted. Customers may request a partial refund for any unused portion of their reservation due to the shutdown. To request a refund please contact the reservation customer service at 1-888-448-1474 (TDD 1-877-833-6777). If the customer chooses to do nothing, the reservation service will automatically cancel reservations after their departure date during the shutdown period.
For updated information about park closures call 501-324-5551
Release no. 13-073