Corps reopens “boat-in” docks at W.P. Franklin Campground

Published Sept. 9, 2015
Boat-in docks at W.P. Franklin Campground

Boat-in docks at W.P. Franklin Campground

The Jacksonville District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has reopened four “boat-in” docks at the W.P Franklin North Campground on the Caloosahatchee River near Fort Myers following the completion of structural repairs.

“Boat-in” docks allow boaters to camp overnight in their boat with similar amenities as an RV campsite. These amenities include water and electrical hook-ups and the use of the campground restrooms and showers. The facility can accommodate up to eight vessels. Boaters can reserve mooring slips online and learn more about recreational opportunities at the Recreation.gov website.

“We recognize the inconvenience the closures may have caused to people planning to use the docks as part of a trip to the Franklin Campground,” said George Melanson, natural resource manager at the South Florida Operations Office. “However, the safety of the guests at our campgrounds is our top priority. We have completed the repairs and are pleased to reopen the boat-in docks to boaters traveling along the Okeechobee Waterway.”

The W.P. Franklin Campground along the north side of the Caloosahatchee River also offers 30 RV/tent campsites and is open year round.

The W.P. Franklin North and South Recreation Areas also offer boat ramps for daily use.

“We recently repaired the boat ramps at W.P. Franklin Lock and Dam,” said Melanson. “We are asking the public to winch vessels on and off, rather than powering on and off at the boat ramps. Boaters can do their part to help minimize propeller scouring at the end of the boat ramp. When they do, it is safer for everyone. Fewer repairs are necessary, and we can keep the facilities open for the enjoyment of the public.”

For more information on the Corps of Engineers recreation opportunities within the Jacksonville District, visit:  http://www.saj.usace.army.mil/Missions/CivilWorks/Recreation.aspx

Contact
Erica Skolte
561-472-8893
Erica.A.Skolte@usace.army.mil

Release no. 15-080