News Releases

Big Bend campgrounds opening Thursday

Omaha District
Published June 10, 2020
Power generation began at Big Bend Dam in 1964 and the entire complex was completed in 1966. Big Bend hydroelectric power plant is operated to meet peak demands for electricity in the Missouri River Basin. The power plant houses eight units with combined maximum generation capacity of 494,320 kilowatts. This is enough power for about 95,000 homes. The first unit went into operation in 1964 and by 1966 all eight generators were producing commercial electricity.

Power generation began at Big Bend Dam in 1964 and the entire complex was completed in 1966. Big Bend hydroelectric power plant is operated to meet peak demands for electricity in the Missouri River Basin. The power plant houses eight units with combined maximum generation capacity of 494,320 kilowatts. This is enough power for about 95,000 homes. The first unit went into operation in 1964 and by 1966 all eight generators were producing commercial electricity.

Campgrounds and boat ramps operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Big Bend Project, South Dakota, will open Thursday after being closed to protect against the further spread of COVID-19; this will include Left Tailrace Campground. 

With the reopening, the health and safety of USACE personnel, contractors, volunteers, and the visiting public remain our highest priority. For this reason, we are asking everyone to follow the social distancing guidelines and abide by all signs posted in the parks. Follow CDC guidance on visiting parks and recreation facilities.

There are a number of changes to our operations this year to help limit the risk of COVID-19. The most important is that we are working in partnership with the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe and Lower Brule Sioux Tribe to protect the communities from the spread of COVID-19. Please observe responsible practices by purchasing snacks, bait and other items at your home locations. Firewood and ice will be available for purchase in the campground. 

The tribes kindly request that visitors do not stop in their communities. This request is not only for the protection and safety of the tribal communities, but also for the protection and safety of visitors.

In addition: we are asking visitors to limit the use of our comfort stations to single occupancy; our playgrounds will remain closed for the season; and all hydroelectric dam power plant tours have been cancelled.

Campsites must be reserved online prior to arrival at: www.recreation.gov.

When the call center reopens reservations can be made by dialing: 877-444-6777. Updated information can also be found on the Big Ben Project website or by calling (605) 245-2255.


Contact

or
Jacki Bultsma
(605) 245-1807
jacki.r.bultsma@usace.army.mil

Release no. 20-070