The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Baltimore District (USACE) has conducted an environmental analysis in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, as amended. This final Environmental Assessment (EA), for the Bald Eagle State Park Recreational Facilities Improvements addresses campground expansion opportunities and feasibility at Bald Eagle State Park in Howard, Centre County, Pennsylvania (PA).
The final EA evaluated various alternatives that would provide for additional campground facilities in the study area. The recommended plan includes construction of a campground loop with 22 camp sites, a parking area, and associated roads and infrastructure located over a total area of approximately 8 acres. The 22 new campsites would be full-service hook-up with water, electric and sewer connections. An existing cottage would be incorporated into the expansion. The proposed expansion is located to the south/southeast of the Modern Campground in an area covered by scrub and deciduous trees. There is a pond-wetland complex to the north of the site, adjacent to the project footprint.
In addition to a “no action” plan, four alternatives were evaluated. The initial analysis completed for siting of the proposed campground loop at Bald Eagle State Park involved evaluating open areas directly adjacent to the existing modern campground loops in the park. Four alternatives with similar designs and number of camp sites were examined at four different locations near the modern campground to determine the most suitable site with the least impact. Alternatives were considered near this site due to the existence of sewer, water, and electric infrastructure located at the modern campground. The proposed campground would include modern amenities and would require extension of utilities to the adjacent sites of the proposed campground, thus the proximity to the existing modern campground would reduce costs and impacts to undisturbed areas.