The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District has announced that the Woodcock Lake Park Campground will not be open for the 2023 recreation season.
The decision came after a comprehensive review of past usage metrics and current budgetary constraints, resulting in the inability to operate the site at the safety and recreation standards maintained in the past.
The park’s remaining day-use areas, including the swim beach, boat ramp, hiking trails, shelters, and roadways, will remain open for public use.
The district has been working diligently to identify a new third-party lease agreement to operate the campgrounds in the future since the 17-year lease agreement with Crawford County was terminated in 2020.
This news may come as a disappointment to campers who have enjoyed the Woodcock Lake Park Campground in the past.
However, there are other nearby Corps-owned campgrounds such as Tionesta Lake in Tionesta, PA, and Shenango River Lake in Hermitage, PA, that will remain open for the 2023 season. Reservations can be made online at www.recreation.gov.
In a statement, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District emphasized their commitment to providing safe and enjoyable outdoor recreation opportunities for the public.
They acknowledged the importance of the Woodcock Lake Park Campground to the local community and expressed their regret for any inconvenience caused by the closure.
The district is actively seeking a new third-party lease agreement to operate the campgrounds in the future, and they encourage interested parties to reach out for more information.
Those who have already made reservations for the Woodcock Lake Park Campground will be contacted and offered a full refund.
Woodcock Lake Park Campground is a 111-site campground with a developed swim beach, four reservable shelters and six-lane boat launch.
The campground operates primitive style only which means no potable water, electric hookups, restrooms/shower houses, or dump stations available at this time.
For more information, interested parties can contact the Woodcock Creek Lake Office at 814-763-4422/4477. Media inquiries can be directed to the Public Affairs office at [email protected] or 412-395-7500.
Isn’t it cool that even though the campground is closed for 2023, we can still soak up the beauty of Woodcock Lake Park using the day-use spots like the beach and trails? Props to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District for hustling to revive the campground for us outdoor enthusiasts!