Swim, Boat Free Next Week

The Dog Days of August are nearly here. What better way to beat the heat than frolicking in the water. To help the nation cool down, the government is temporarily waiving daily use fees at rec sites across the country. Swim and boat free next week at a host of parks and recreation sites managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It’s a perfect opportunity to pack the family into the RV and head to the nearest lake for a little R&R.

During the week of August 1-9, all-day use fees will be waived at swimming beaches and boat ramps on lakes, rivers and reservoirs across the country. On or in the water is a great way to spend those first sweltering days of August. Take the family for a dip in the lake. Try waterskiing or wake boarding on the smooth waters of a reservoir. Head out for an early morning of fishing. If you want to make a weekend of it, you’ll still have to pay for RV camping, but camping rates at federal rec sites are very affordably priced.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages more than 30% of federal recreation facilities and is the greatest national provider of water-based recreation. If there’s a lake, dam, reservoir or river in your area, it’s most likely managed by the Corps. Most rec areas offer swimming beaches, picnic areas, boat ramps and docks, and fishing. Many offer boat rentals as well as other water sport rentals. Many swimming areas also provide changing/shower rooms and snack bar facilities, often in conjunction with state parks. Click here for a regional list of Corps-managed sites to find a recreation site near you.