Ocala National Forest - Prospectus for Campground and Related Granger-Thye Concessions
Type: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

AGRICULTURE, DEPARTMENT OFFOREST SERVICEUS

NAICS

All Other Amusement and Recreation Industries (713990)

PSC

OPERATION OF RECREATIONAL BUILDINGS (M1FB)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/de1e643d2502424b84720fe32375f9fb/view
Timeline
    Description

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service is soliciting applications for a concession campground special use permit at the Ocala National Forest, specifically within the Lake George Ranger District. This opportunity aims to provide high-quality public service through the operation and maintenance of government-owned recreation facilities, including the Salt Springs Campground and Day Use Area, which attract significant visitor traffic due to their natural mineral springs and outdoor recreational offerings. Interested parties must submit their applications by May 30, 2025, following a facility tour scheduled for April 30, 2025, and should direct any inquiries to Danela Head at danela.head@usda.gov by April 11, 2025.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Danela Head
    danela.head@usda.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    2025_Salt_Springs_CG_Prospectus_508.pdf
    The USDA Forest Service's prospectus seeks applications for a special use permit to operate and maintain concession campgrounds in Florida's Ocala National Forest, specifically at the Salt Springs Recreation Area. The permit encompasses developed sites including the Salt Springs Campground and Day Use Area. The area attracts significant visitors due to its natural mineral spring and varied outdoor recreational opportunities. The prospectus outlines the responsibilities of the permit holder regarding maintenance, utilities, and compliance with environmental regulations. It specifies conditions for fee structures, including a minimum fee based on past revenue and requirements for maintaining accessibility standards. Applications must detail an annual operating plan, business experience, and financial resources, while a facility tour is scheduled for prospective applicants. Selection is based on the best overall value to the government, with criteria emphasizing proposed plans and past performance. The document reflects standard practices in government RFPs, reinforcing professional quality and community service in public land management.
    2025_Salt_Springs_CG_Prospectus_Appendices1_19_508.pdf
    The document presents an inventory and assessment of recreational facilities and properties managed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service, specifically within the National Forests in Florida. It includes detailed lists of structures such as campgrounds, buildings, and amenities, along with their respective values for potential replacements and maintenance. Key sections highlight prohibited activities within these national forests aimed at protecting public health and safety, specifically regarding the use of controlled substances and the management of fire hazards. Specific regulations restrict motor vehicle use on designated roads and require adherence to stringent protocols for camping and food storage to prevent wildlife disturbances. The document also stresses consequences for violations, including fines and legal penalties. The information aims to ensure safe recreational use while preserving forest integrity, making it relevant for local governments, grant applications, and community engagement in environmental stewardship.
    Appendix_10_FS-2700-4h_SpecialUsePermit_Modified.pdf
    The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service issues a Special Use Permit for campground and related Granger-Thye concessions, governed by the Granger-Thye Act. This permit allows the holder to occupy National Forest System lands in Florida for recreational purposes, detailing various operational requirements and responsibilities. Key components include an Annual Operating Plan, compliance with environmental laws, insurance requirements, and maintaining all facilities in good condition. The permit establishes non-exclusive usage, stipulates that it is revocable and terminable, and lays down guidelines for maintenance, reconditioning, and mutual agreements on fee offsets relating to federally owned improvements. The holder is obligated to protect public health and safety and ensure compliance with laws, while the Forest Service reserves the right to supervise operations and require amendments as necessary. The document emphasizes environmental protection, adherence to nondiscrimination policies, and outlines financial responsibilities for land use fees, ensuring sustainable operation and management of public lands. Overall, this permit structure aims to balance public use, resource protection, and organizational responsibilities under federal regulations.
    Errata1_SaltSprings_CG_Prospectus.pdf
    The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued a prospectus for Granger-Thye concessions related to campgrounds in the Ocala National Forest. An important update includes an extension of deadlines for submitting applications, questions, and RSVPs for a facility tour. The new deadlines for submissions are May 30, 2025, for applications, and April 30, 2025, for questions. Interested parties must now RSVP for the facility tour by April 11, 2025. Moreover, the announcement includes a revocation of a previous executive order raising the minimum wage for federal contractors, meaning that new wage clauses previously applicable to this prospectus are no longer in effect. This document serves to notify potential applicants and stakeholders of important changes that may affect their participation in the concession process and underscores the USDA's regulatory compliance initiatives.
    Salt_Springs_Campground_Prospectus_Q A Version3 508.pdf
    The United States Department of Agriculture is finalizing the prospectus for concessions at the Ocala National Forest's Salt Springs Recreation Area, with applications due by May 30, 2025. The document outlines key information relevant to potential concessionaires, including facilities, utilities, and maintenance responsibilities. Important topics addressed include occupancy limits for visitor areas, staff site availability, the cost-sharing of water systems with Marion County, and specifics regarding lift station maintenance and operational responsibilities. The prospectus incorporates details about visitor fees, historical gross revenue, and nature of services offered, such as forest management for hazard trees. The document emphasizes that concessionaires are accountable for maintaining infrastructure according to regulatory standards, while also allowing various sales except for prohibited items. Furthermore, insights into seasonality, utility costs, and visitor management are provided, reflecting the operational context for managing recreational areas. This document serves as a critical resource for applicants seeking to operate concessions in alignment with federal regulations and the Forest Service's guidelines.
    Salt_Springs_Campground_Prospectus_Q and A_Version1.pdf
    The United States Department of Agriculture has issued a prospectus for campground and related Granger-Thye concessions in the Ocala National Forest, outlining important timelines and procedures for interested applicants. Questions regarding the solicitation can be submitted until April 30, 2025, allowing for inquiries during a scheduled site visit. In response to concerns about the short preparation time following the site visit, the application deadline has been extended to May 30, 2025. This flexibility is intended to facilitate a comprehensive application process, ensuring all prospective applicants can adequately prepare their submissions while promoting transparency and communication through publicly posted questions and answers on Sam.gov. The document emphasizes the government's commitment to effective engagement with stakeholders in managing national forest facilities and services.
    Salt Springs Campground Prospectus Q A Version2 508.pdf
    The United States Department of Agriculture issued a prospectus regarding the campground and related Granger-Thye concessions at the Salt Springs Recreation Area in Ocala National Forest. The document includes a series of questions and answers addressing various operational concerns. Key topics include estimated utility costs, seasonal peak usage, maintenance responsibilities, and management of wildlife. The average utility costs are reported at $63,000 for electricity and $20,000 for water and sewage, reflecting the financial implications for potential concessionaires. There are no routine closures, but past hurricane impacts have led to temporary closures due to flooding. The document also clarifies concessionaire responsibilities, including maintenance of water systems and electric hookups, alongside sales regulations for the concession store. Importantly, this prospectus serves as a guiding framework for prospective applicants, ensuring they are informed of operational standards and requirements to provide services effectively within the national forest's recreational facilities.
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