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
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U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS –WILMINGTON DISTRICT
69 DARLINGTON AVE, WILMINGTON, N.C. 28403
WWW.SAW.USACE.ARMY.MIL
Release no. 25-013