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SILVER LAKE FAMILY CAMP DISCUSSION AND NEXT STEPS
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RECOMMENDATION
Receive and review the findings of a Facility Condition Assessment (FCA) for the Stockton Municipal Family Camp at Silver Lake, and provide direction to staff regarding whether to pursue reopening the camp.
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Summary
The City of Stockton manages the Special Use Permit for the Silver Lake Family Camp located in Amador County under the jurisdiction of the United States Forest Service. The camp has been closed since 2022 following the expiration of the operating agreement with the Silver Lake Campers Association (SLCA). In August 2024, Kitchell Engineering & Architectural Services (EAS) completed a Facility Condition Assessment (FCA) identifying significant repair and replacement needs totaling approximately $5.8 million (Attachment A). Staff seeks Council direction on whether to invest in repairs necessary to reopen the facility or consider alternative options for its future use.
DISCUSSION
Background
The City of Stockton (“City”) holds a Special Use Permit from the United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, authorizing use of federal land within the El Dorado National Forest for the operation of the Stockton Municipal Family Camp at Silver Lake. The 14-acre facility, located approximately 100 miles east of Stockton, has been in operation since the 1920s and provides seasonal camping opportunities for families, youth groups, and community organizations. The site includes cabins, a dining lodge, kitchen, bathhouse, and related infrastructure.
In 2009, the City Council authorized an agreement transferring daily operations of the camp to the Silver Lake Campers Association (SLCA), a volunteer-based nonprofit organization. SLCA managed the camp until their agreement expired in 2022. In July 2022, the City issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) seeking a new operator under PUR-22-018, but received no qualified responses. The camp has remained closed since that time due to concerns regarding the condition of the facilities and infrastructure.
In May 2023, the City Council authorized a comprehensive assessment to evaluate the site’s condition and determine the extent of repairs needed for potential reopening. Kitchell Engineering & Architectural Services (EAS) completed the Facility Condition Assessment (FCA) in August 2024.
Present Situation
Kitchell EAS inspected 58 buildings and structures across the campgrounds, including cabins, maintenance shops, restrooms, and other facilities. The assessment found that 93 percent of buildings are in poor-to-critical condition, with a Facility Condition Index (FCI) of “D.” This rating indicates significant wear, deterioration, and risk of equipment failure or building shutdowns.
All deficiencies identified were classified as Priority 1, requiring corrective action within 0-12 months to address safety hazards, prevent further deterioration, and restore assets to operation. The report also identified multiple Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance deficiencies, including non-compliant pathways, ramps, door widths, restrooms, and parking areas.
Operating the camp without substantial repairs presents high safety and liability risks for patrons and staff.
City staff are requesting Council direction on whether to:
1. Pursue reopening by initiating necessary repairs and allocating capital funding; or
2. Defer or discontinue operations pending identification of a long-term funding or partnership strategy.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY
The total capital renewal cost for all observed deficiencies is $5,846,220. Capital renewal costs encompass minimum, necessary repairs, renewals, and upgrades required to bring the facility into compliance with current building code requirements. This total also includes City administration soft costs, like architecture/engineering, construction management, permits and testing.
The total replacement cost for all observed deficiencies is $22,323,000. The Replacement cost includes a replacement (new) facility using identical programs, construction types, and building systems that meet current building code requirements. This total also factors in City administration soft costs and fees.
Attachment A - Silver Lake Campground FCA Final Report.pdf