The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is the largest provider of water-based outdoor recreation in the nation. The St. Louis District also operates and maintains five lakes and their associated recreational areas. These lakes, which serve a variety of purposes ranging from flood protection and recreation to potable water supply and hydroelectricity, average over 15 million visitors a year.Visitors of all ages can enjoy traditional activities like hiking, biking, fishing, camping and hunting, and for those slightly more adventurous there is windsurfing, disc golf, mountain biking and geo-caching. Regardless of your favorite activity one thing is certain, recreation enriches people's lives. A visit to an Army Corps of Engineers' recreation area can strengthen family ties and friendships; create unforgettable memories and connect people to nature that will last a lifetime.