SAVANNAH, Ga. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will waive day use fees at its more than 2,800 USACE-operated recreation areas nationwide in observance of its birthday, June 16, 2026.
The waiver covers day use fees at Hartwell and J. Strom Thurmond Lake recreation areas (operated by the Savannah District). The waived fees are for boat launch ramps and swimming beaches.
The waiver does not apply to camping and camping-related services, or fees for specialized facilities (group picnic shelters) and events. Other agencies that manage recreation areas on USACE lands are encouraged, but not required, to offer the waiver in the areas that they manage.
Due to the ongoing drought conditions, Corps officials urge boaters to use extreme caution when at the lakes. Rocks and tree stumps, normally deep underwater, are closer to the surface, some just out of sight, especially in coves and along the shoreline. Boaters should use the main channel whenever possible. All visitors should wear a life jacket whenever in, on or near the water.
The fee-free initiative was first instituted on Veterans Day 2006 with the intent to support and honor the men and women who have served the nation in the U.S. Armed Forces. Here are the remaining fee-free days for 2026:
- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ birthday: June 16, 2026
- Independence Day weekend: July 3-5, 2026
- National Public Lands Day: Sept. 26, 2026
- Veterans Day: Nov. 11, 2026
USACE is one of the leading federal providers of outdoor and water-based recreation, hosting millions of visits annually to its more than 400 lake and river projects. It’s estimated that 90% of the USACE-operated recreation areas are within 50 miles of metropolitan areas, offering diverse outdoor activities for all ages close to home.
To discover a USACE recreation site near you, please visit www.recreation.gov or the USACE website at https://corpslakes.erdc.dren.mil/visitors/visitors.cfm.
Release no. 26-019