Greenville Campground to Remain Closed 2017 Recreation Season

High lake levels in early May combined with a destructive windstorm on Memorial Day weekend caused extensive damage to the Greenville Campground and Recreation Area to include the Memory Lane Trail. Other areas along FF HWY, Johnson Tract Natural Area and the new Greenville Bike Trail locations were also damaged. Unfortunately the Greenville Campground and Recreation Area suffered the majority of the damages, according to Corps of Engineers officials.
As clean up began, many significant issues with the electric system, water system, hanging limbs, downed trees and uprooted sidewalks and pavement were discovered. It was determined to be impossible to open the campground safely by the July 4th holiday as originally hoped. Therefore, the campground will remain closed for the entire 2017 recreation season to allow both cleanup and improvements to the area. The National Recreation Reservation System will be refunding this season’s reservations.
During this closure many overdue upgrades to this 30-year-old camping facility will be completed. The Corps of Engineers has received funds to make these improvements and they will begin as soon as the tree removal is completed. Upgrades to the area will include the following: 50 amp electrical service and water hydrants at each site; Sewer hookups on selective sites; Widened roads and sites to provide more parking; Replacement of interpretive signs and; improvements to the special event area located within the campground.
The Greenville Recreation Area that includes the boat ramp and vault restroom is currently open. The day use area, that includes the picnic shelter and playground area will open as soon as the hazards are removed and the area is cleaned. The Annual Old Greenville Days, scheduled in September will go forward, however, the campground and Memory Lane trail will not be reopened for the event. Currently, work is continuing on the Greenville Bike Trail spur from the town of Greenville to the Ozark Trail south of the U.S. Highway 67 bridge and is scheduled to be completed this year.
The Corps of Engineers said that it regrets any inconveniences these closures may cause, but officials look forward to the improvements and the benefit they will provide in the years to come. The intent is to have the campground reopened in 2018. “Your patience is appreciated as this challenge is met,” reads a press release the Corps issued last week.
Every month offers new and exciting events at Wappapello Lake so be sure to like us on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/Wappapello. For information about Wappapello Lake or Greenville Campground renovations contact the Wappapello Lake Management Office at (573) 222-8562.