Temporary Boat Ramp and Neal Smith Trail Closures Scheduled at Saylorville Lake

USACE Rock Island District
Published Aug. 31, 2026
Neal Smith Trail Closure Map Sept. 1-3, 2026

Neal Smith Trail Closure Map Sept. 1-3, 2026

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District, announces temporary partial closures affecting the Bob Shetler Recreation Area boat ramp and a segment of the Neal Smith Trail this week to facilitate essential maintenance operations.

The boat ramp at Bob Shetler Recreation Area will be closed for public use Sept. 1-3. No vessel launching or retrieval will be permitted during this timeframe, and boaters are advised to use alternative launch facilities in the surrounding area.

Additionally, a portion of the Neal Smith Trail between mile markers 9.75 and 10.5, situated between Horseshoe Road and the Cottonwood Recreation Area, will be closed for public use Sept. 1-3. The trail bridge crossing Rock Creek will be closed to all bicycle and pedestrian traffic. No bypass or detour will be available across the creek, so trail users will need to turn around prior to reaching the posted closure or plan to use an alternate route.

These temporary closures are needed to ensure public safety while maintenance personnel and heavy machinery operate on-site. Large trucks and equipment will actively enter and exit these work areas, and drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians are urged to reduce speeds and exercise caution. Visitors are asked to obey all posted barricades, signage, and personnel instructions, as unauthorized entry into active work zones is prohibited.

For more information, contact the Saylorville Lake Project Office at (515) 276-4656.


Contact
Corporate Communications
309-794-4200
CEMVR-CC@usace.army.mil

Release no. 26-023