Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area is one of a few National Park Service units to allow hunting. Hunting within the boundaries of Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area is a recognized recreational activity under 36 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 7.55 at times and locations designated as open for hunting.

Rules and Regulations

Hunters are asked to be familiar with both the Washington State and federal rules and regulations concerning hunting in Washington and Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area. Many park visitors are unaware that hunting activities may be ongoing within the recreation area.

Information on Washington State hunting regulations can be found in the Washington State Hunting Seasons and Regulations. National Park Service regulations are not contained in those guides. Following are some of the regulations which hunters will need to be aware of:

1. Hunting is prohibited within one-half mile of all developed areas including, but not limited to, the Fort Spokane Historic District, the Old Kettle Falls developed area, and the Saint Paul's Mission area.
   The exemption is the Old Kettle Falls developed area will allow for the hunting of waterfowl only, during specific times and seasons
2. Firearms: You may not possess a loaded firearm in or on a motor vehicle.

• A firearm is considered loaded if there are rounds in the chamber or magazine, a muzzleloader is unloaded if there is no cap on the nipple or powder in the priming pan. 36 CFR 2.4 (b)
• You may not possess a loaded firearm in a boat or vessel except when that boat or vessel is being used as a shooting platform in accordance with State and Federal law. You may only load your firearm after the motor has been shut off and all forward motion due to that motor has stopped. 36 CFR 2.4(b)

3. Viewing of wildlife with artificial light is prohibited. 36 CFR 2.2 (e)
4. Permanent tree stands and "screw-in" tree stand steps are prohibited.
5. The cutting of standing trees (alive or dead) and branches, or the possession of green vegetation is prohibited. 36CFR 2.1 (a)(ii)
6. Digging or disturbing soils or vegetation is not permitted.
7. Vehicles or other wheeled devices are not allowed off roads. ATVs are not allowed anywhere in the recreation area.
8. All trash and other man-made materials must be packed out and deposited in trash receptacles.
9. Marking trees to locate trails using spray paint, colored flagging, or reflective tacks and similar materials is prohibited. The blazing of trees is not allowed.
10. Target shooting or the sighting in of weapons, including bow and arrow, is prohibited.
11. Trapping is prohibited in the Recreation Area.

As of February 22, 2010, possession of a firearm inside the recreation area is also subject to state law. Contact a park ranger for further information, or visit this website: http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=9.41. Target shooting is strictly prohibited! The possession and use of any other device capable of firing/launching a projectile (e.g. paintball guns, water balloon and potato launchers, cannons, catapults and slingshots), is prohibited.

The regulations for hunting within Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area are designed to provide a meaningful and safe experience for hunters.

We hope you enjoy your hunting experience in Lake Roosevelt and wish you good luck.