Army Corps of Engineers closing Fort Pack campgrounds

Press release

FORT PECK — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced Tuesday it was beginning the orderly shutdown of all USACE-managed campgrounds around Fort Peck Lake to protect against the further spread of COVID-19, effective Wednesday.

The Interpretive Center, powerhouse tours, group shelters, playgrounds, fishing piers and designated swim beaches at USACE-managed sites have also been closed and or put on hold until further notice.

Individuals with paid camping reservations at the Downstream Campground impacted by this orderly closure will receive a cancellation via email and a full refund. No new reservations are being accepted at this time.

At this time Fort Peck Project is keeping day-use facilities and lake access areas open, such as boat launches, picnic areas, trails and viewing areas. Bathrooms at many locations may be limited due to public and employee safety concerns. Recreation areas may be further limited due to evolving conditions related to COVID-19.

Day-use only operations also apply to all remote USACE-managed sites, such as McGuire Creek, Rock Creek, Nelson Creek, Devils Creek, Crooked Creek, Fourchette Bay, Bone Trail and the Pines. Camping will not be allowed in these areas for the foreseeable future to help slow the spread of COVID-19, discourage group congregations and to support Gov. Steve Bullock’s stay-at-home directive; these are strictly preventative measures.

People are asked to observe physical distancing from other recreationists and follow all mandated travel restrictions. The health and safety of the public, as well as USACE employees, contractors and volunteers is the top concern.

USACE will continue to monitor the situation and take appropriate actions based on federal, state and local recommendations for public health and safety.

For more information on the current status of USACE recreation area closures, the corps asked that people contact the Fort Peck Project at 406-526-3411 before their visit. Updates will also be provided on Facebook @USACEFortPeck.

“The public’s patience and understanding is appreciated during this unprecedented time,” the corps said in a press release.