LACLEDE, Idaho — Federal budget cuts have forced the closure of multiple recreation areas in North Idaho, with some set to reopen with limited services in the coming weeks.
Riley Creek Recreation Area is currently closed and will remain shut until at least May 10. Visitors who walked to the beach found closed bathrooms and no trash cans.
“It would be nice if it could stay up and maintain, especially when it comes to public restrooms, which already have quite the track record,” said Matthew Williams, a park patron.
The closures create problems for families with young children. Alyssa Ojalehto, who brought a group including small children to Riley Creek, expressed frustration.
“If the bathrooms aren’t open, especially in the summer, I wouldn’t come back. Because it’s frustrating enough to have to walk far and do all the things with a lot of kiddos,” Ojalehto said.
She added, “It’s super frustrating. I wish they would leave at least the facilities unlocked and also garbage cans. We’ve been taking out our garbage, but it would be super helpful to have those around.”
The closures extend beyond Riley Creek. Albeni Cove and Priest River Recreation Areas will remain closed until May 17, while Springy Point Recreation Area is closed for the entire season.
When these areas reopen, they will operate with limited facilities and reduced maintenance, raising concerns among visitors.
“As long as they can keep everything maintained, that would be great. If they can’t, that would be a bummer and kind of suck,” Williams said.
Park visitors worry that without proper facilities and regular maintenance, the recreation areas will deteriorate. Many said they would be less likely to return if bathrooms and trash cans aren’t available.
Ojalehto mentioned another popular spot known locally as “the mud hole” in Priest River, which has been closed for over a year.
“I just hope that we can get some funding to keep parks like this open. We mentioned the mud hole in Priest River. That’s been closed for well over a year. That was used a ton by families that are pretty upset about it,” she said.
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