Whidbey Island Naval Air Station will begin a $4.8-million construction project next year to significantly expand camping opportunities at an RV park located on the shoreline of the Ault Field base, according to a Navy press release.

Cliffside RV Park, a 13.5-acre recreation area, is open to active duty, reserve and retired service members and their families who want to make Whidbey Island a destination site in their travel plans.

Cliffside RV Park was built in 1972 and currently consists of 20 RV sites, seven tent camping sites, pavilions and a ball field. It offers direct access to the west shore of the island, overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The park is well used; more than 4,200 RV campers and 450 tent campers visited Cliffside during the past year.

Planned improvements to the park include 60 new RV sites, all with water, sewer and electrical hook-ups. Six yurt camping structures will be constructed to serve the recreation needs of those without recreation vehicles.

Other elements of the project include upgrades or replacement of support buildings, utility connection to base infrastructure, upgrades to existing utility connections, a new or renovated bath/laundry house, new or renovated pavilions and play areas and roadway pavement improvements.