Replacement work being done on main water line

PEDRO — The campgrounds and the beach at the Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area will remain closed for the remainder of 2020 and into 2021 to replace the main water line, which has experienced multiple breaks and repairs over the past several years.

“We hope that replacing the entire main water line will prevent any additional disruptions in service to our visitors,” Ironton district ranger Tim Slone said in a news release. “We regret any inconvenience to them and are looking forward to reopening the recreation sites with a long-term fix on the water line as soon as possible.”

The main water line was shut off in 2019 due to a break. The Forest expected to repair it and reopen the recreation sites by Memorial Day 2020. However, soon after the repairs were made in April, it experienced another leak. As a result, the Forest made the decision to keep the recreation sites closed until the entire main water line can be replaced.

The main water line services the Oak Hill, Iron Ridge, Pine Knob and Two Points Campgrounds, as well as Big Bend Beach. The forest has received funding to replace the water line and is going through the steps necessary for complete replacement.

All Lake Vesuvius campground reservations made through the 2020 season will be automatically cancelled and refunded. The Forest Service will provide updates on the project and when the campgrounds will likely reopen as it nears completion.