Temporary closure for boat-in campground

California State Parks announced that the boat-in campground at Emerald Bay State Park will be closed between May and mid-summer.

The campground will be closed for public safety while crews replace its pier, according to a State Parks press statement.

"The new pier will be a very positive change for boaters," said Pam Armas, Sierra District superintendent. "They will be rewarded with a modern structure that meets standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act."

The new structure is designed to accommodate more boats at one time for quicker loading of camping equipment. The pier will also berth the ranger patrol boat, allowing for more rapid response to critical incidents in the Emerald Bay area, according to the statement.

Once the pier construction is complete, the campground will re-open on a first-come, first-served basis for the duration of the summer and will be back on a reservation system next year.

"We know the campground closure is disappointing, but this work can only be done during moderate weather," Armas said. "We believe the upgrade will be worth the wait."