The James Allen Williamson Champney River Park and boat ramp south of downtown Darien off U.S. Highway 17 will close for renovations after the conclusion of duck hunting season on January 28, 2025.

The closure is expected to last approximately six months as the facility undergoes significant upgrades and repairs.

The renovation project will include:

• Parking Lot Improvements: The existing lot will be removed and raised by 2-3 feet to address rising sea levels and stormwater runoff. A new 100,000-square-foot asphalt parking area will be constructed in the northern section, while the southern section will feature a pervious grass lot. The paved lot will be restriped to accommodate larger trucks and trailers.
• Boat Ramp Enhancements: Two new double-lane boat ramps will be installed, along with a new boating access dock featuring a fishing pier.
• Service Dock Replacement: A reconfigured service dock will include a 30-foot by 10-foot fishing pier near the shoreline and a 60-foot-long dock extending about 70 feet into the river.
• Green Infrastructure: To manage stormwater, a bioswale and native vegetation will be planted, promoting sustainability and ecological health.

The project, managed by Department of Natural Resources’ Coastal Resources Division (CRD) and partially funded by a $1.1 million Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program grant, has a total budget just under $2 million. Additional support comes from DNR’s Wildlife Resources Division, Ducks Unlimited, local businesses, and individual contributors.

“We are excited to enhance the Champney River Park to better serve boaters, anglers, and the community,” said Paul Medders, CRD’s public access lead. “These improvements will ensure the park remains a vital resource for recreation and conservation in McIntosh County for years to come.”

Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and explore alternative boat ramps in the area during the closure. A comprehensive list of coastal boat ramps can be found at CoastalGaDNR.org/AllBoatRamps. Updates on the project’s progress and reopening will be shared CRD communication channels including its website at CoastalGaDNR.org.

For more information, visit CoastalGaDNR.org or call 912-264-7218.