Alerts at John H. Kerr Reservoir

Point of Contact:
Chief Ranger Thomas Coleman - (434) 738-6143 x 6152 | thomas.c.coleman@usace.army.mil

WILMINGTON, N.C. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Wilmington District, continues to evaluate temporary closures and reduced services at John H. Kerr Dam & Reservoir due to significant staffing shortages and ongoing construction projects. The safety of visitors and staff is the top priority for these temporary changes. The following closures have been implemented:

• Palmer Point Day Use Area: This area will be closed to all visitors due to an erosion control construction project.
• Liberty Hill Day Use Area: This area will be closed to all visitors as construction crews work on the Right-Wing Dike Toe Drain repairs.
• North Bend Winter Camping: The 2025-26, November to March, winter camping season is canceled.
• Recreation.gov: The 2026 reservation window for all campsites and picnic shelters is temporarily closed.

Delaying reservations will allow the USACE time to evaluate staffing levels subject to the Department of Defense hiring freeze prior to the 2026 recreation season. The reservation system will remain closed until 4 March 2026 at which time an update will be provided. "Our goal is to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone at our parks," said Eric Schreckengost, Chief of Lakes Branch. "The temporary closures of Palmer Point, Liberty Hill, and the Recreation.gov reservation system, along with the cancellation of winter camping at North Bend Park are necessary to address both construction and critical staffing shortages. We appreciate the public's understanding and patience as we work to resolve these challenges."

The Wilmington District and project staff will continue to monitor the situation and assess future operations. Updates on reopening will be announced as available. Please check our website or follow us on Facebook for updates.

• John H. Kerr website: https://www.saw.usace.army.mil/Locations/District-Lakes-and-Dams/John-H-Kerr/
• John H. Kerr Facebook: @JohnHKerrReservoirBuggsIslandLake

BOYDTON, V.A. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Wilmington District, which oversees operations of numerous recreation sites throughout North Carolina and Virginia, will temporarily close two day-use parks at John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir (Buggs Island). Liberty Hill Access and Trail, 4410 Buggs Island Road, and Palmer Point Park, 899 Palmer Point Road, will be temporarily closed starting August 14, 2025, for ongoing and upcoming maintenance projects. The closures will remain in effect until further notice in order for construction work to be completed.

Visitors are encouraged to follow us on Facebook for updates regarding the temporary closure of the parks. Facebook: @JohnHKerrReservoirBuggsIslandLake

Liberty Hill Access and Trail: The ongoing work to replace the toe drainage system along the earthen Right-Wing Dike which abuts John H. Kerr Dam requires the use of Liberty Hill Access and Trail parking lots for construction access and staging.

Palmer Point Park: Shoreline stabilization work will be carried out to address erosion around the designated swimming area and picnic sites.
During this period of closure, the entirety of the two parks will be closed and unavailable for use.

North Bend Park, 64 North Bend Drive, will be open and can provide similar recreation opportunities. If you have any questions about the closure or alternative recreation areas, please contact the Visitor Assistance Center, at 434-738-6143.

Once every month the catwalk area at Tailrace Park is closed for routine maintenance and cleaning. From March 2025 through October 2025 the catwalk will be closed on the third Tuesday of every month for cleaning. The catwalk area will reopen after cleaning and maintenance has concluded. 2025 dates for cleaning include: March 18th, April 15th, May 20th, June 17th, July 15th, August 19th, September 16th, October 21st. Questions please call the Visitor Assistance Center at 434.738.6143.