Collection of day-use fees will begin at Sutton Lake on May 1, 2022. The fee amount will be the same charged to use the launch ramp in the past. However, only credit card payments will be accepted going forward – no cash will be collected or accepted. Automated fee machines have been installed in Bee Run and at the South Abutment areas and visitors will be expected to pay the $5 fee to use the areas. Customers will receive a receipt to display in their vehicle dashboard where the date can clearly be seen. Park Rangers will periodically check the vehicles within the recreation areas to ensure payment. Once the fee is paid, it is good for all day use areas that day.
The fee machines have been situated along the entry road to make payment quick and convenient to visitors, according to Corps of Engineers authorities. Customers with Annual Passes, Senior Passes, Access Passes or other relevant America the Beautiful Passes, do not need to stop at the fee machines; passes should be properly displayed in the vehicle dash so they can be seen from the outside of the vehicle.
Annual Day Use passes may be purchased at the fee machines for $40. Customers have 10 days to take their Annual Pass receipt to the Lake Office or to the Gerald R. Freeman Campground Entrance Station to exchange it for a hard pass.
According to the Corps, boat users have been assessed these fees since 1996 and have competed for parking and amenity usage with other visitors who were not assessed the fee. All vehicles parked in Bee Run and the South Abutment areas will be expected to pay the day use fee. Marina customers should consult with the marina operators for instructions.
Information on the ‘America The Beautiful’ Passes can be found at: www.recreation.gov/pass . The pass is honored at all Corps operated Day Use Areas nationwide.
