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Top 10 Know Before You Go

Two people in lawn chairs and heavy coats sitting in Kettle Falls Campground next to their RV.
1. Plan Ahead - Campgrounds fill early, especially that one favorite spot, so reserve your space at recreation.gov ahead of time. If you need to stay outside the park, remember local motels are likely to fill quickly as well. Check out our Virtual Ranger Station for more information.
A silver pickup truck is backing a trailer with a boat down the paved boat launch ramp.
2. Boat Like a Pro - Know your rules and regs, wear your PFDs, and find that hidden cove away from the crowds. You can also buy your weekly or yearly permit ahead of time so you can get out on the water ASAP.
An adult bull or gopher snake is coiled in a defensive posture. Its tapered tail is visible.
3. Snakes and Sunscreen - What are two very common things at Lake Roosevelt? Watch your toes and your dogs when walking in the park. Check our Pets page for additional guidelines for your Bark Ranger. This picture is actually a bull or gopher snake, which is non-venemous. They like to eat mice and chipmunks, and prefer to hang out in sunny areas to catch some rays.
A bucket and pieces of toilet paper left along the shoreline.
4. Pack It In / Pack It Out - No one wants to camp in your trash. Bring a bag and carry it out with you to the nearest dumpster or garbage can.
A paved boat ramp with the words Stop Invasive Species, Clean Drain and Dry Your Boat painted on the ground.
5. No Invasive Species! Help keep our waters free of Quagga and Zebra Mussels by filling out the mandatory self inspection form at the boat launch and making sure to Clean - Drain - Dry your watercraft.
A view of the lake on a cloudy day with a rainstorm in the distance.
6. Check the Weather - Will it be sizzling hot? Freezing cold? Or will there be a rain shower at dinner time? Figure out what you need to pack or NOT to be comfy.
Looking down Hawk Creek from the pool adjacent to the waterfall, with a 30' cliff on the left covered in lichen. The creek winds through a shallow valley beyond.
7. It's a Big Place - Check out our maps and guides page or google where you're going. Plan ahead to make important stops for propane, gas, and snacks!
A man in a white t-shirt, shorts, and ball cap holds up a fish he caught.
8. Drop a Line, Cast a Fly - Know the who-what-where of lake fishing before you get here and don't forget your license!
A raccoon wearing a covid face mask.
9. Water, Water Everywhere - With so much water around us while fishing, boating, swimming, and paddling around the lake, it's easy to forget to stay hydrated! Remember stay safe, drink water, and Recreate Responsibly!
A National Park Service shield with tree, grass, and bison.
10. Grab the App - The new NPS App has all the camping and boating information for Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area and over 400 of your favorite parks! You can also choose to download the park info to your phone to use it when you are out of cell coverage. Download through the Apple Store and on Google Play
Find more park Top Ten lists here.

Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area

Last updated: June 4, 2021