W.P. FRANKLIN LOCK R

• Latitude: 26.7231
• Longitude: -81.6925
• Gulf of Mexico
• Marina in US

Location: US

The W.P. Franklin Lock and Dam Recreation Area, often referred to simply as the W.P. Franklin Lock, is a facility managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It is located in Alva, Florida, along the Caloosahatchee River. This site provides numerous recreational opportunities and facilities, alongside its primary purpose of water management and navigation.

Description:

• Location: Alva, Florida, along the Caloosahatchee River.
• Primary Function: Part of the Okeechobee Waterway system, the lock and dam manage water levels and enable navigation from the Gulf of Mexico to Lake Okeechobee and the Atlantic Ocean.
• Managed By: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Features and Amenities:

1. Lock and Dam:

   • W.P. Franklin Lock: Provides navigation through the Caloosahatchee River.
   • Dam: Helps in controlling the water levels in the river to prevent flooding and maintain adequate water supply.

2. Recreation Area:

   • Camping: The W.P. Franklin Lock South Campground offers sites with electrical hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings. It accommodates both RVs and tents.
   • Picnicking: Designated picnic areas are equipped with tables and shelters.
   • Fishing: Multiple spots along the riverbank provide opportunities for fishing.
   • Boating: Boat ramps and docks are available for small and large vessels to access the river.
   • Swimming: Designated swimming areas enhance visitor enjoyment.
   • Wildlife Observation: The area is known for its bird watching and opportunities to see local wildlife.

3. Visitor Facilities:

   • Restrooms: Modern restroom facilities available.
   • Playgrounds: Areas for children to play.
   • Nature Trails: Trails for walking and observing nature.
   • Educational Programs: Information about the lock and dam operations, local ecosystem, and conservation efforts.

Specifications:

• Lock Dimensions: The lock chamber is typically designed to accommodate vessels of a certain size and requires regular maintenance and operational capabilities.
• Water Control: The dam includes spillways and gates that manage water flow and levels.
• Navigation Aids: Markers and lights facilitate safe vessel passage.
• Capacity: The campgrounds and picnic areas are designed to cater to a specific number of visitors, with reservations often recommended during peak times.
• Access: The site is accessible via road, with parking facilities for both day-users and campers.

Important Notes:

• Reservations: Camping sites typically require reservations, which can be made through recreation.gov.
• Regulations: Visitors must comply with local rules regarding fishing, boating, camping, and use of facilities to ensure safety and preservation of the natural environment.
• Accessibility: Some facilities are designed to be accessible for visitors with disabilities.

The W.P. Franklin Lock and Dam Recreation Area is a multifunctional site that, while primarily serving a critical role in water management and navigation, also provides a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and resources of the Caloosahatchee River region.