Washington State Fish and Wildlife

White tail deer

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)
• Firearms may be transported in or on a motor vehicle, boat or horse but they must be rendered temporarily inoperable, or packed, stored or cased in a manner that prevents their ready use. 36 CFR 2.4 (a)(3)
• This law can be satisfied several ways, a cased unloaded gun satisfies the requirements of this law. An unloaded gun with a trigger lock installed satisfies this law. An unloaded gun with the ammunition stored in a separate part of the vehicle satisfies this law. A unloaded gun laying in the passengers seat with the ammunition right beside it does not satisfy the requirements of this law.

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.

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