By Gary Hawkins, Recreation Program Manager
Why make improvements to Wranglers Campground?
As a result of hearing from campers at public meetings in 2011, the US Forest Service planned, secured funding and began improving several campsites at Wranglers Campground in 2015. Campsites were upgraded and constructed to accommodate more people and make better use of unused campsites.
What improvements were made?
Camping season peaks at Wranglers in April and October due to spring and fall breaks and desirable weather conditions. With project planning from the Land Between The Lakes Engineering department and work completed by Envirosmart, Wranglers upgraded services on 17 campsites and constructed 4 new sites throughout the campground.
The number of visitors camping in overflow fields when campsites were full was cut in half, thanks to 21 new electric sites. Revenue funds generated at Wranglers for capital investment projects were used for the construction and improvements.
Until 2015, 15 non-electric campsites in F Loop were underutilized and sat vacant, except during holiday weekends and fall break in October. Now, electric service provides 50, 30, and 20 amp outlets. These upgraded sites can now support technology of newer, larger camping units.
Two more non-electric sites, A16 and D48, were upgraded with 50 amp outlets.
Four new 50 amp service campsites were constructed throughout the campground:
- C-59
- D-49
- D-50
- D-51
The main paved campground road that leads to all loops passes in front of the campground’s Outpost store. The road was just wide enough for two vehicles with RV’s in tow to meet. Campers parked along the road to access the store and triggered traffic jams. We increased the road width by 10’ to create extra room for “quick stop” parking of 10 minutes or less.
What’s next?
Future plans include the addition of a vault toilet in F Loop, a second water hydrant, and a security light.
We hope you enjoy the upgrades at Wranglers Campground. We are looking forward to a successful 2016!
–Gary
