CARBONDALE – After 60 years of operation, the Little Grassy Lake Campground and Marina will close at the end of this year. That’s according to a post it shared with the public on Facebook Saturday.
Earlier in May, Little Grassy was informed by the manager of the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge that the campground and marina would close at the end of year. The campground has been running through a concessionaire contract for the past 15 years. The terms of this contract are five years, with the option of additional five years without having to resubmit a bid. Little Grassy was anticipating another five years at the end of this year as part of its 2020 contract.
Little Grassy says the dam on the lake is undergoing assessment, and the water level is being kept at least 4 feet below the pool level during this assessment and analyzing process. Information from the Army Corps of Engineers – who are in charge of the dam assessment and Dam Safety Modification Study – has indicated that the water levels will remain as they are for potentially a few more years, with a deeper draw down expected sometime in the future while the modifications are being made.
Little Grassy has appealed to the Refuge and proposed solutions to address their concerns in order for them to reconsider the closure. Little Grassy is hopeful that the Refuge will consider their plea and allow for at least an interim or shorter-term contract. You can direct any questions or comments to the Refuge Headquarters in Marion, or the USFWS Region 3 Headquarters.
Boat rentals are still available seven days a week. Camping is also open through November. Little Grassy thanks everyone for their continued support.
