APPLING, Ga. – The J. Strom Thurmond Lake Project, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Savannah District, is reopening the West Dam Day Use Area Friday, May 23, 2025.
The park is missing some amenities and structures, such as tables, grills, and impact sites, that were damaged by Hurricane Helene, but it is now safe for visitors.
The West Dam Day Use Area reopening makes 40 of 51 Corps of Engineers recreation areas that have been, at least, partially reopened since Hurricane Helene hit in September 2024.
There is still debris remaining in most parks and potential hazards remain in closed areas of parks, so visitors must use caution and refrain from entering closed areas. To ensure a safe experience, guests might enjoy visiting other open areas at the state and county parks around the Thurmond and Richard B. Russell Lakes, until all Corps of Engineers parks are fully reopened. Savannah District’s Hartwell Lake also has day use areas, camping, swimming and boating available. It is located approximately two hours north of J. Strom Thurmond Lake.
The Corps of Engineers appreciates the public’s continued patience and cooperation as work to remove storm debris and restore more recreation areas continues at Thurmond Lake.
For additional information about the J. Strom Thurmond Lake Hurricane Helene Recovery, visit Thurmond Hurricane Helene Recovery.
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Release no. 25-019