BLM plans new campground near Mesa as Wayne County assists with construction

The Utah Outdoor Adventure Commission has made significant strides toward enhancing outdoor recreation in the region, particularly with the development of a new campground near the Mesa Campground. During a recent meeting, officials announced that the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is set to initiate the environmental analysis necessary for this project within the next year or two. This development comes as part of a collaborative effort with Wayne County, which has pledged to contribute road equipment and materials to facilitate the construction.

The Forest Service has secured $379,000 in funding for essential preliminary work, including a traffic study and geotechnical analysis, aimed at ensuring the safety and accessibility of the campground. This funding will also support the mitigation of hazardous rock falls in the area, enhancing the overall safety for visitors.

The estimated cost for constructing the campground is approximately $4.5 million. The commission is proposing to allocate $4.04 million to move forward with the construction contract, which will be awarded based on the best value to the government. The campground is expected to accommodate between 30 to 60 sites, with the current plan suggesting a capacity of 54 sites. This flexibility in site numbers reflects ongoing public feedback, with some advocating for a larger campground while others prefer a more limited capacity.

As the project progresses, the Forest Service will oversee the preparation of plans and specifications, ensuring that the construction aligns with community needs and environmental standards. The commission's efforts highlight a commitment to improving outdoor recreational opportunities in Utah, fostering both community engagement and environmental stewardship.