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MCCLELLAN CREEK RECREATION AREA TO REOPEN AFTER WILDFIRE

Cheyenne , OK - May 21, 2007 - McClellan Creek Recreation Area, located in Gray County, Texas, just north of Interstate 40, will reopen on May 24, 2007 in time for the Memorial Day holiday weekend.

Natural Resource Specialist Mary Lane of the Black Kettle and McClellan Creek National Grasslands, said that north side camping and picnicking areas on the northwest side of the lake, along with Fisherman's Point and East Bluff #1on the southeast side of the lake will reopen on Thursday, after making repairs and felling numerous hazardous trees. The remainder of the recreation area will remain closed, this includes The Pit parking area and trailhead and the OHV trails, due to the hazardous conditions still present from thousands of dead trees killed as a result of the wildfire which occurred in March, 2006. The wildfire also burned down the concession building. Currently there are no plans to rebuild the concession building. The lake will be open for boating and fishing. The Forest Service is currently working with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in stocking the lake.

The area to reopen on May 24 includes 17 Recreational Vehicle sites with water and electric, 16 camp sites, 24 picnic sites, toilets, showers, and the dump station on the northwest side of the lake. On the southeast side is Fisherman's Point (day-use) and East Bluff #1 with 7 sites. Campers may stay up to 14 consecutive days. Daily camping fees are $15 for sites with water and electric, $10 for sites without hookups, $3 for additional vehicle, and $3 for day use. The large group pavilion is available for reservation by calling the Black Kettle and McClellan Creek National Grasslands office at 580-497-2143.

Visitor safety and resource rules are posted on the bulletin boards. Numerous hazards still exist within McClellan Creek Recreation Area and McClellan Creek National Grassland. Caution is advised when walking and traveling within the treed areas of the recreation area and grassland, due to the potential of trees and limbs falling, along with numerous stump holes as a result of wildfire damage.

For more information, contact the Black Kettle and McClellan Creek National Grasslands office at 580-497-2143. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00am - 4:30pm .