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US Army Corps Campgrounds

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is one of the world's biggest campsite operators. As of 2011, it operates more than 2,500 recreation areas on 400 lake and river projects in 43 states. It is the steward for 12 million acres of public lands and waters. Recreation and camping areas vary widely, from lake to lake and state to state. Some offer basic primitive campsites; others have facilities for campers and recreational vehicles, and all provide recreational opportunities.

Location
- The Corps maintains 33 district offices from New York to California to Hawaii. Each will have a complete list of lakes and other areas in its district, with specific camping and recreational facilities. Types of lakes and waterways vary widely from state to state. Each district office can provide information on reservations, fees, specific regulations and other information. A map on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers website shows campgrounds by state and offers trip planning and other help (see References).
Making Reservations
- Most Corps facilities take reservations. The official reservations site, Recreation.gov, gives specific information on campsites. It tells how to find areas and how to make reservations. You can also check camper or recreation vehicle availabilities through an RV camping website or through the Corps. It is a good idea to double check by calling ahead, because some online information may be incomplete or out of date. You also can just show up at a campsite, but in peak travel periods some areas fill up and may not have space without reservations.
Facilities and Security
- Corps facilities typically are clean and well maintained and rangers patrol most areas. Some areas offer special tours or programs, depending on the locale. All areas have toilets and showers and picnic tables and benches. Most sites have cooking fireplaces or fire rings. All have trash disposal; some have full RV hookups while others have only designated parking sites. Tent camping usually is provided in areas adjacent to RV parking slots but generally far enough removed that the two do not conflict.
Boating, Fishing and Other Recreation
- Water activities are available at all Corps lakes; most campgrounds have boat launching ramps nearby, and some areas have boat rental or storage facilities. All lakes offer fishing (a state license and other regulations may apply), hiking and other outdoor activities. Many areas have designated hiking trails or walking paths, with observation platforms at scenic areas. Many also have beaches or designated swimming areas, although lifeguards usually are not provided.

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