Portland, Ore. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Portland District (Corps) is closing all recreation sites to prevent the spread of COVID-19, effective March 30. “The health and safety of all visitors, partners, employees and their families is our top priority. These temporary closures align with current health authority guidance and are necessary to help control this disease,” said Melissa Rinehart, Portland District chief of natural resource management. “We recognize the challenges this may cause our recreation users and local communities, and thank everyone for doing their part to help prevent the spread of the disease so we can return to normal operations as soon as possible.” These closures support the State of Oregon’s executive order to avoid unnecessary travel and practice social distancing, and also help to reduce pressure on local emergency services at a time when their capacity is lower and their focus is COVID-19. The Corps is implementing closures by posting signs and closing gates at Portland District recreation areas located in Oregon and Washington. These closures will remain in effect until further notice. Individuals with paid campground reservations will be contacted by email and full refunds will automatically be processed by Recreation.gov with no cancellation fees. Individuals should not attempt to contact Recreation.gov to request a refund as that will lead to a cancellation fee being charged. The Corps will continually monitor guidance on the COVID-19 pandemic and update recreation conditions as they change.
