211: Torreya State Park Campground Paving and Regrading

Team 211 L to R: John Carlson, Nate Merrill, Carson Prugh, Andy Wood

The Torreya State Park Campground Paving and Regrading project was focused on upgrading the infrastructure and accessibility of the park’s Weeping Ridge Campground. Torreya State Park is in Bristol, Florida. It is a popular site for hiking, camping and birdwatching. The site is on a high point in the park and contains a dirt road that loops around the site. The park is kept up and owned by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. This project had several key parts: paving the campsite road, upgrading the camper/RV spaces by adding parking pads, and meeting drainage needs. These upgrades will enhance visitor experience while preserving the park’s natural beauty.

The site is 4.226 acres and mostly occupied by campers/RVs with some primitive camping areas. The dirt road was paved for a more even and stable driving experience. The previously dirt camper and RV campsites were turned into concrete pads for motorists. Proper stormwater analysis was needed as 1.383 acres of impervious area required new drainage solutions. Some of the minor improvements include the addition of two concrete pads for bike racks and the replacement of all wooden benches and fences on site. We were responsible for a plan set that included general notes and details, demolition and erosion control, site improvements, drainage and cross sections. All new facilities were designed to be ADA compliant.  

With the new amenities, the project aimed to attract more visitors to the park, resulting in increased revenue while keeping the park’s natural beauty. These goals align with Florida’s promise to enhance public facilities and ensure sustainable use of natural resources for current and future generations.

John Carlson, Nate Merrill, Carson Prugh, Andy Wood

Sean Martin, Ph.D., P.E., FRSE

Halff Associates; Ryan Culton, P.E., M.B.A. Austin Cushing, P.E.

Spring