Blue Marsh Lake, PA -- LEESPORT, PA (Friday, May 16, 2025) – In April, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Philadelphia District, announced access area closures for paving and construction activities that could affect the access during the Memorial Day holiday weekend, and the implementation of operational changes and reductions in services at Blue Marsh Lake due to staffing shortages during the 2025 recreation season.
Due to the ongoing paving and infrastructure repairs, visitors will experience the following impacts during the Memorial Day holiday weekend at the Dry Brooks Day Use Area (Swim Beach):
- Limited parking availability. Once parking reaches full capacity, the Day Use Area will be closed for the remainder of the day for entry.
- Bathroom and shower facilities will be closed due to delayed sewer system repairs. Portable toilets will be available for use at various locations.
Operational and service reductions in full effect starting May 17, 2025 include: •
- Reduced hours of operation and services at the Dry Brooks Day Use Area (Swim Beach)
- Day Use Area Hours 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Swim Beach will close at 5:00 PM
- No entry after 5:00 PM
- Picnic pavilions will not be reservable and will be available on a first come, first serve basis only.
- Boat Launch operational changes and reduced services.
- The Dry Brooks and State Hill Boat Launches will be closed for the remainder of the day once they reach full capacity on weekends and holidays, and will reopen after 5:00 PM
- The picnic area at the Dry Brooks Boat Launch will be closed for the season. The ramp will remain open for launching purposes only.
- Delays or reductions in trail and facilities maintenance.
- Reduced outreach and interpretive programs.
Park visitors are reminded to adhere to posted restrictions, closures, and barriers to ensure safe park operations and the ability to keep facilities open for use throughout the summer recreation season.
We appreciate your patience, understanding, and cooperation as we work through these challenges and continue to prioritize public safety and responsible stewardship.
Park updates and statuses can be regularly viewed on our official webpage and social media pages:
- Website - https://www.nap.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/Blue-Marsh-Lake/
- Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/bluemarshlake
- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bluemarshlake.usace/
All questions and information requests can be directed to the Philadelphia District Public Affairs Officer, Stephen Rochette, Stephen.Rochette@usace.army.mil
Release no. 25-006