Springy Point recreation area closure set for May

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has announced the temporary closure of Springy Point Recreation Area and reduced services at several other facilities on Lake Pend Oreille and the Pend Oreille River for the upcoming summer season.

The closure at Springy Point takes effect May 10 and includes the campground, restrooms, beach and boat ramp.

It will remain closed until further notice.

“The Corps of Engineers is experiencing various challenges providing its standard level of public service this year,” said Albeni Falls Dam Natural Resources Chief Taylor Johnson. “Because our visitors’ well-being is our top priority, we’re reducing services and closing designated recreation areas to ensure our staff can provide safe experiences for everyone.”

USACE made the decision with visitor safety and resource protection as its top priorities. Limited Natural Resource Management staff impacts their ability to provide routine maintenance and emergency response capabilities.

Affected Recreation Areas

Vista Recreation Area – Open year-round with reduced Visitor Center hoursAlbeni Cove Recreation Area – Opens May 17 with reduced servicesPriest River Recreation Area – Opens May 17 with reduced servicesRiley Creek Recreation Area – Opens May 10 with limited facilitiesSpringy Point Recreation Area – Closed for the season

Properties owned by USACE but managed by Idaho Department of Fish and Game, such as the Driftyard, Morton Slough and Johnson Creek, are not affected.

All interpretation, public outreach events and water safety education activities are cancelled. USACE estimates over $17 million is generated in the local economy from the 450,000 visitors who recreate at these facilities annually.

Visitors with existing reservations at Springy Point will receive full refunds. Those planning to visit other areas should check www.recreation.gov for the latest updates.

USACE is working to address staffing challenges and aims to reopen affected areas as soon as possible.