May 13, 2025:
The North Shore Campground at the Big Bend Project near Fort Thompson, South Dakota, will reopen to the public Thursday (May 15, 2025).
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha District had previously identified the campground as one being closed this season because of adjustments made to recreation operations due to seasonal staffing constraints across multiple projects.
Jacki Bultsma, deputy operations project manager, says the Big Bend Project is able to reopen because of new volunteer support to maintain the campground for public use. She said their support ensures a safe and welcoming experience for visitors.
Follow the Big Bend Project’s official social media channels for updated information on recreational opportunities.
The Omaha District manages recreation areas at more than 25 sites along the Missouri River, serving millions of visitors each year. Public safety and stewardship remain top priorities as adjustments are made to maintain services across the region.
April 16, 2025:
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha District, will temporarily close or reduce services at multiple sites along the Missouri River in South Dakota, Nebraska, North Dakota and Montana beginning May 1, 2025.
These closures will also impact supporting services, including janitorial, refuse, mowing, park attendant, fire ring cleaning and weed control. USACE will post closure signage at each location.
Affected areas in central South Dakota include:
- North Shore Campground, near Fort Thompson
- Good Soldier Day Use/Boat Ramp upstream from Big Bend Dam – one vault toilet closed
- North Shore Beach Day Use/Boat Ramp upstream from Big Bend Dam near Fort Thompson – one comfort station and one vault toilet closed
- Old Fort Thompson downstream from Big Bend Dam – one comfort station closed
- Left Tailrace downstream from Big Bend Dam – one comfort station and one vault toilet closed
- Oahe Visitor Center at Pierre/Fort Pierre – closed
- In mid-May, powerhouse tours will be suspended at Oahe and Big Bend
Due to limited seasonal staffing, the following maintenance and safety service reductions will be in effect:
- Safety patrols reduced, especially during peak weekends and holidays
- Janitorial services for comfort stations and trash removal reduced from being done daily to being done an average of 3 times per week
Omaha District Commander Col. Robert J. Newbauer says these temporary adjustments are being made to ensure visitor safety, protect environmental resources and sustain critical hydropower and dam operations. He says the Corps is committed to resuming full services when conditions allow and they thank visitors, volunteers and partners for their continued support and understanding.
Find a full list of U.S. Army Corps service disruptions in the information below.
The following campgrounds will be fully or partially closed for the 2025 season:
- East Totten Trail Campground, N.D.
- Wolf Creek Campground, N.D.
- Hazelton Campground, N.D.
- Cattail Bay authorized camping area, N.D.
- North Shore Campground, near Fort Thompson, S.D.
- Beaver Creek Campground (partial loop closure), N.D.
Several comfort stations and vault toilets will be closed at day use areas, including:
- Good Soldier Day Use/Boat Ramp upstream from Big Bend Dam in S.D. – one vault toilet closed
- North Shore Beach Day Use/Boat Ramp upstream from Big Bend Dam near Fort Thompson, S.D. – one comfort station and one vault toilet closed
- Old Fort Thompson downstream from Big Bend Dam in S.D. – one comfort station closed
- Left Tailrace downstream from Big Bend Dam in S.D. – one comfort station and one vault toilet closed
Educational and interpretive programs at the following visitor centers will be affected:
- Fort Peck Interpretive Center and Museum, Mont. – reduced to one day per week (from five)
- Oahe Visitor Center, S.D. – closed
- Fort Randall Visitor Center, S.D. – closed
- Lewis and Clark Visitor Center at Gavins Point, Neb. – reduced hours (Wednesday-Saturday)
Powerhouse tours at the following project sites will be suspended beginning mid-May:
- Garrison, N.D.
- Oahe, S.D.
- Fort Randall, S.D.
- Big Bend, S.D.
- Fort Peck, Mont. – available only during Fort Peck Interpretive Center hours
Visitors are encouraged to verify the status of recreation sites before traveling and to consider alternative locations where needed. USACE will process full refunds for any reservations through Recreation.gov. Please follow all posted signage and closures. Respecting these limits helps protect public safety and ensures that facilities can reopen more effectively in the future.
When enjoying the outdoors, remember to:
- Know before you go – check weather, site status and safety alerts
- Bring the essentials – including water, maps and a backup plan
- Respect wildlife, fellow visitors and public lands
- Always wear a life jacket when on or near the water
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