Flooding Damages Devil`s Den State Park

Weekend flooding did an estimated $3 million in damage at Devil`s Den State Park. Parks officials are now trying to figure out where to begin repairs. Timothy Scott, an assistant superintendent at the park in southern Washington County, said the park had experienced high water and floods before, but nothing like this. Several trails and camping areas are closed because of the damage. Officials said parts of the park -- including the most popular campground -- may be closed at least until July. A suspension bridge at the park was taken down by the flood waters. And facilities that include picnic tables and barbecue grills are either destroyed or buried under sediment and trees. In addition, pavement and rock have been washed into camping areas. Water lines serving the west side of the park were washed out and broken by rushing water and floating debris. Park workers are continuing to assess damage to trails at the popular park.