Corps of Engineers waives day-use fees at recreation areas in observance of Veterans Day

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Nashville District:

"NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Nov. 5, 2026) - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Nashville District announces that day-use fees at its USACE-operated recreation areas in the Cumberland River Basin are waived Nov. 11, 2026, in observance of Veterans Day.

The national fee waiver covers fees for boat launch ramps and swimming beaches at USACE-operated sites nationwide. Camping and camping-related services, as well as fees for specialized facilities such as group picnic shelters and special events, are not included in the waiver. Other agencies managing recreation areas on USACE lands are encouraged, but not required, to offer the waiver.

“Veterans Day is an opportunity for us to recognize and honor the men and women whose courage, sacrifice, and dedication have helped protect our nation and preserve the freedoms we enjoy,” said Trey Church, Nashville District’s Operations Section chief. “Waiving day use fees at our recreation areas is a meaningful way to show our appreciation for their service while inviting veterans, their families, and the public to enjoy the natural resources and recreational opportunities entrusted to our care. As stewards of these important public lands and waters, we are proud to join in this national observance and honor those who have served.”

While there are 25 USACE-managed recreation areas within the Nashville District that typically charge a day-use fee, several are already fee-free during the off-season. The waiver applies to all 25 sites, including those that remain open and active in charging fees during November:

• Center Hill Lake: Floating Mill, Hurricane Bridge, Ragland Bottom
• Dale Hollow Lake: Lillydale, Obey River, Pleasant Grove

USACE first introduced the Veterans Day fee waiver in 2006 to honor service members across all branches of the armed forces. In addition to Veterans Day, USACE offers fee-free days throughout the year to mark other key occasions, including the USACE birthday, Independence Day (July 4th), and National Public Lands Day.

As one of the nation's leading federal providers of outdoor and water-based recreation, USACE hosts millions of visitors annually across more than 400 lake and river projects. With an estimated 90% of USACE recreation areas located within 50 miles of major metropolitan areas, visitors can easily access diverse outdoor activities close to home.

Visitors are encouraged to contact USACE lake and river projects before visiting to ensure recreation areas are open. More information can be found at www.corpslakes.us.

To discover a USACE recreation site near you, please visit www.corpslakes.us or www.recreation.gov.

The public can obtain news, updates and information from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Nashville District on the district’s website athttps://www.lrd.usace.army.mil/About/Districts/Nashville-District/, on Facebook athttp://www.facebook.com/nashvillecorpsand on X (formerly Twitter) athttp://www.x.com/nashvillecorps. Follow us on LinkedIn for the latest Nashville District employment and contracting opportunities athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/u-s-army-corps-of-engineers-nashville-district."