Recreation

Rangers are closing the gates on vandals at the Sam Owen Campground day use area near Sandpoint this year beginning Nov. 15.

“We’ve kept the day use area gate open in previous winters,” said Sandpoint District Ranger Dave Dillard. “But last year, some vandals drove their car around the ground smashing signs and tearing up the area. We can’t afford to risk that kind of damage again.”

Despite the closure, Dillard said visitors can still get to the day use area on foot, bicycle, horseback, skis or with a pair of snowshoes. Vehicle parking will be allowed along the county road leading to the park, as well as near the gates at the entries to the camping loops, the dump station, and the day use area.

In addition, one toilet will be left open in the Skipping Stone camp loop. The day use area gate is expected to be reopened in early April. For more information, contact the Sandpoint Ranger District at 208-263-5111.