An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
Official websites use .gov A
.gov website belongs to an official government
organization in the United States.
Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A
lock (
) or https:// means you've safely connected to
the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official,
secure websites.
Of designations, closures, permit requirements and other restrictions imposed under discretionary authority.
Approved on June 03, 2026 by Craig Ruscitto.
Signature on file.
In accordance with regulations and the delegated authority provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations (“36 CFR”), Chapter 1, Parts 1-7, authorized by Title 54 United States Code, the following regulatory provisions are established for the proper management, protection, government and public use of those portions of Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area (LRNRA) under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service (NPS). Unless otherwise stated, these regulatory provisions apply in addition to the requirements contained in 36 CFR, Chapter 1, Parts 1-7. Written determinations, which explain the reasoning behind the Superintendent’s use of discretionary authority, as required by Section 1.5 (c), appear in this document identified by italicized print.
Introduction
The Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area (LRNRA) Superintendent's Compendium is the summary of park specific rules implemented under the discretionary authority of the park Superintendent. It serves as public notice with an opportunity for public comment, identifies areas closed for public use, provides a list of activities requiring either a special use permit or reservation, and elaborates on those public use and resource protection regulations that pertain to the specific administration of the park. It does not contain those regulations found in Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) and other United States Codes (U.S.C.) and CFR Titles which are enforced without further elaboration at the park level.
A copy of 36 CFR can be purchased from the U.S. Government Printing Office at:
Superintendent of Documents
P.O. Box 371954 Pittsburgh, PA 15250-7954
or by calling: (202) 512-1800
The Code of Federal Regulations is also available on the internet at: http://www.ecfr.gov
The regulations contained in this Compendium apply to all persons entering, using, visiting or otherwise within the boundaries of federally owned lands and waters administered by the NPS as part of the LRNRA. This includes all water subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, including all navigable waters and areas within their ordinary reach (up to the ordinary high-water mark) without regard to the ownership of the submerged lands or lowlands. The park map is available at any park office or visitor contact station.
Only NPS law enforcement park rangers or a cross-designated law enforcement officer can enforce the requirements of 36 CFR and this Superintendent's Compendium. However, many federal laws and regulations similar to those are found in state and local law. Many of the requirements of this compendium complements existing state and local laws and regulations which are also in effect within the park, and are enforced by state and local law enforcement officers.
A person who violates any provision of the regulations found in 36 CFR Parts 1-7, along with this compendium, is subject to a fine as provided by law (18 U.S.C. 3571) up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, or by imprisonment not exceeding six months (18 U.S.C. 3559), or both, and can be adjudged to pay all court costs associated with any court proceedings.
The NPS welcomes comments about its programs and activities at any time. Comments specific to the Superintendent's Compendium will be accepted any time. Any changes to this Compendium recommended by the public or others, and accepted by the Superintendent, will be incorporated into this compendium without further public comment and review.
Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area
1008 Crest Drive Coulee Dam, WA 99116
ATTN: Chief Ranger
Some of the terms used in this Compendium may be unclear to you. If you are unsure about a specific term please consult 36 CFR § 1.4 Definitions. You may access them at 36 CFR § 1.4. Definitions of terms that may be unique (or differ from those generally used in 36 CFR) to this Compendium are defined in this document.
Government-owned buildings (or portions thereof) containing offices, meeting rooms, employee residences, maintenance equipment, storage space, or other areas not normally open to the public. This includes exterior storage areas and parking areas adjacent to these buildings as well as “bone yard” storage areas. The public spaces of visitor centers are not included in this definition.
Community Access Points (CAP):
Public access points on LRNRA which can be accessed by water or land adjacent to private communities. These areas are operated under permit through the NPS and have varying facilities which may include public boat launching, parking, courtesy dock or overnight docking.
Day use area:
Any area comprised of or adjacent to public access paved parking lots, buildings, or toilet facilities; Administrative Areas and floating NPS toilet facilities are excluded from this definition.
Developed area:
An area containing one or more of the following facilities designated, maintained or approved by the NPS: a vessel launch ramp, campground, or designated day use areas; Community Access Points; marinas, administrative areas, restrooms (except floating toilet facilities), and the two Vacation Cabin areas identified as Special Use Areas in the General Management Plan. For the purposes of this Compendium, it does not include roads, trails, docks or other small structures.
Dock:
Any floating platform, fixed platform, or vessel, which is anchored or otherwise installed for the primary purpose of providing a location for vessel moorage. This applies to all such platforms or vessels, regardless of whether they are equipped with motors/propulsion devices, Hull Identification Numbers, US Coast Guard capacity plates, or whether they are registered as a vessel by a federal or state government agency.
Fire:
Any outdoor flame used for warmth, cooking, ambiance, insect repellant, chemical dispersion, and/or lighting. Mooring: The act of using anchors and / or lines to secure a vessel in one location regardless of whether the lines are attached to the shore or to a submerged anchor. Open Waters Management Area and Passive Waters Management Area: Those areas identified and designated in the LRNRA General Management Plan and the LRNRA Shoreline Management Plan. Passive water, flat-wake and no-wake speed: The minimum speed required to leave a flat wave disturbance close astern a moving vessel yet maintain steerageway, but in no case in excess of 5 statute miles per hour.
Picnic areas:
Those areas designated as day-use public areas that include picnic tables, NPS-established metal campfire grates or above ground barbecue grates.
Special anchorage areas:
Those areas where vessels not longer than 65 feet in length, when at anchor, are not required to carry or exhibit anchorage lights.
36 CFR Part 1 - General Provisions
36 CFR §1.5 - Visiting hours, public use limits, closures, and area designations for specific use or activities.
The following visiting hours and public use limits are established for all or for the listed portions of LRNRA, and the following closures are established for all or a portion of LRNRA to all public use or to a certain use or activity:
LRNRA is open 24 hours a day with the following exceptions, which are closed to the public from 10 pm until 6 am:
Historic Structures (See 2.1(a)(5))
Day Use Areas
Designated Campgrounds: except to registered campers with a valid permit.
Boat Launches: except to people actively launching or retrieving boats from the water with a valid permit.
Marinas: except for moorage customers aboard or accessing their boat.
Administrative Areas: All administrative areas are closed to the public, unless specifically invited (such as contractors in those areas necessary for their assigned work) or when escorted by an LRNRA employee or volunteer.
Off-Road Areas: All beaches and areas exposed during reservoir drawdowns are considered off-road sites and are therefore closed to vehicles, off-road vehicles, and bicycles.
Determination: This closure protects natural and cultural resources.
Boat Launch Ramps: All boat launch ramps are closed when the reservoir surface level is below thoseshown as the minimum operating elevation for each ramp in §3.8 below.
Water Slides & Rope Swings: Constructing, using, and/or maintaining a water slide or a rope swing within the boundary of LRNRA is prohibited.
Determination: Water slides can cause significant erosion to the lakeshore. Rope swings can damage or kill vegetation. Use of a water slide or rope swing has the potential to result in significant injury.
Fish Cleaning Stations: Disposing anything other than fish remains in the established fish cleaning stations is prohibited. Disposing of carp and/or sturgeon remains in an established fish cleaning station is prohibited.
Determination: Damage can occur to the fish cleaning stations when hunters use them to dress out game, or campers use them as a garbage disposal. Carp and sturgeon remains contain large amounts of hard bones and plates which may cause to fish cleaning station to stop functioning. Using them for the intended purpose will help keep them operational, so fish remains will not be disposed of improperly.
Motorized personal transportation devices, including but not limited to: motorized foot scooters, motorized skateboards, mopeds, motorcycles, ATV’s, OHV’s, motor assisted bicycles, golf carts, and other similar type devices that are not licensed by the Washington State Department of Licensing for use on Washington state highways or County roads, are prohibited from being operated within LRNRA. All motorized personal transportation devices and motor vehicles are prohibited from off road operation.
Determination: The recreational and general use of off-highway vehicles such as OHVs, ATVs UTVs, and other motorized conveyances manufactured for recreational non-highway, off-road, or all-terrain travel poses a significant risk to park resources and conflicts with other park visitors and wildlife. These risks and conflicts cannot be appropriately mitigated or be sustained without causing unacceptable impacts. The use of such vehicles is, therefore, not consistent with the protection of the parks and monuments. Use by on-duty LARO employees will be limited to instances when other alternatives to a OHV/UTV are not available and the use of the OHV/UTV is essential to the project’s efficiency or employee safety such as hauling large amounts of heavy materials over rough terrain.
Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Devices (EPAMD’s) may be operated on routes and in areas open to motor vehicle traffic only. The use of EPAMD’s remains prohibited in all other areas, except as provided below for mobility-impaired persons.
Determination: Exemptions have been made for electric wheelchairs, other motor-assisted limited mobility devices, and vehicles used by the NPS for administrative purposes. The Segwaytm, or a similar device, is a two-wheeled, gyroscopically stabilized, battery-powered personal transportation device. While the Segway (or similar device) is not “designed solely for” mobility-impaired persons and thus does not meet the definition of a motorized wheelchair in 36 CFR Section 1.4, some individuals with disabilities use this device as their means of personal mobility, in lieu of more traditional devices like the wheelchair or scooter. The use of this type of device by a person with a mobility disability within LRNRA shall be allowed to the same extent as a motorized wheelchair. The use of such a device shall be limited to a walking pace by all designated swim areas, on trails, and other irregular surfaces. The use of such devices on LRNRA roads by persons with a mobility disability shall be limited to the posted speed limits. The use of such devices by all others remains limited by Washington State (RCW 46.61.710), and such devices are prohibited off approved roads within LRNRA pursuant to 36 CFR §4.10(a). This is to ensure that visitors will be able to enjoy the facilities for which they were designated, and to limit accidents, injuries, and visitor conflicts that commonly occur with the use of such devices. Most of these devices are also not yet commonly regulated for noise, emissions/mufflers, safety equipment, and other requirements to which licensed vehicles must conform.
Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices (OPDMDs): OPDMDs are defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as "any mobility device powered by batteries, fuel, or other engines... that is used by individuals with mobility disabilities for the purpose of locomotion ... or any mobility device designed to be operated in areas without defined pedestrian routes, but that is not a wheelchair." 28 CFR §35.104. When used by persons with disabilities, the NPS considers e-bikes to be OPDMDs. Only individuals with disabilities may use OPDMDs in the park. OPDMDs with an internal combustion engine are prohibited in designated wilderness areas.
OPDMDs may be used under the following conditions:
Operators must be 16 years or older.
The OPDMD must be a zero-emissions vehicle.
The OPDMD is no greater than 36 inches in width at its widest point.
The OPDMD speeds may not exceed 5 mph.
The OPDMD users must yield to pedestrians.
OPDMDs must be equipped with the following safety mechanisms:
Front, rear, and side reflectors.
A system that enables the operator to bring the device to a controlled stop.
A lamp emitting a white light that is visible from 300 feet in front of the OPDMD while it is in motion if operating it between half an hour after sunset to half an hour before sunrise.
A sound emitting device that can be activated by the operator to alert nearby persons, as appropriate.
Determination: These restrictions are necessary for visitor safety and the safety of those operating OPDMDs. The use of OPDMDs by able-bodied persons is prohibited in the park because they meet the definition of a motor vehicle, and off-road travel is prohibited, the only exception being those individuals who meet the criteria of a disabled person as defined by the ADA.
Vehicle Maintenance: Major maintenance and repair to mobile conveyance or aircraft which have the potential to pollute or contaminate the lands or waters of LRNRA are prohibited. (See definition of “Major Maintenance and Repair” on page 4).
Determination: This closure protects natural and cultural resources.
Unmanned Aircraft: Launching, landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters within the boundaries of LRNRA is prohibited except as approved by writing by the superintendent.
Determination: LRNRA receives over 1.5 million visitors a year. This action is necessary for the maintenance of public health and safety, protection of environmental or scenic values, protection of natural or cultural resources, and avoidance of conflicts among visitor use activities. At this time, less restrictive measures will not suffice. When a new park use is proposed, the NPS must ensure that it will not cause impairment of, or unacceptable impacts on, LRNRA resources and values. This closure is a necessary, interim measure until the NPS considers how to address this new use on a long-term basis. Allowing this use before LRNRA has properly evaluated whether this use is appropriate could result in unacceptable impacts to LRNRA resources, park values, and visitor safety.
Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS): The following buildings and facilities are closed to the use of ENDS:
All public buildings including administrative offices, concession facilities, visitor centers, maintenance shops, restrooms and amphitheaters.
NPS-owned or leased motor vehicles and boats.
Determination: ENDS have been prohibited to protect LRNRA property and afford all NPS employees and park visitors the same protections from exposure to nicotine and other harmful substances that may be found in ENDS vapor that are currently in place for exposure to tobacco smoke.
Contaminated Soils Closed Area: that area at the western end of Bossburg Road as marked by signs and extending to the water’s edge is closed to the public at all times.
Determination: EPA has indicated this area has lead contamination in the soil above levels safe for human health. Until EPA and/or NPS decide upon a response to this contamination the area needs to remain closed to ensure no visitors are exposed.
The following activities are prohibited within the waters of LRNRA:
The use of soap, detergent, or shampoo.
Sitting on, standing on, or diving from floating log booms.
Use of hard bottom boats, paddleboards, and canoes within boomed beach access areas.
Diving from or engaging in unsafe behavior on floating platforms.
Swimming, using inflatable toy water devices in harbors, or marinas, or within 100 feet of launch ramps, docks and “No Swimming” signs.
The possession or use of glass containers of any type is prohibited at designated swim beach access areas.
The following areas have been designated for a specific use or activity or the following conditions and/or restrictions apply:
Vessel Mooring:
Vessel mooring is limited to 14 consecutive nights per location within any 30 day period.
Boats 35 feet or longer are prohibited from mooring at public docks provided by the NPS.
Overnight mooring of a vessel on the waters of LRNRA, or otherwise beaching and/or making fast to the shore, within ½ mile of a concession operated marina or campground without occupying a camp site is prohibited.
Vessels may only be moored to NPS designated courtesy docks for a maximum of 30 minutes.
Mooring or tying to a NPS dock designated as a government dock is prohibited.
Mooring or tying to a log boom is prohibited.
Vessel Use at Crescent Bay Lake:
Gasoline-powered motorized vessels and conveyances are prohibited on Crescent Bay Lake except for emergencies or administrative purposes. Electric motors are permitted.
Hunting:
Hunting is prohibited within 500 feet of the developed or maintained areas of all NPS campgrounds including boat-in campgrounds, marinas, vacation cabins, administrative areas, and the Fort Spokane parade grounds.
Determination: To be consistent with the WDFW, LRNRA will mirror WAC and RCW regulations which restrict the discharging of firearms within 500’ of campgrounds. This will simplify the understanding of regulations for visitors as well as the effective management of game species by state and federal biologists.
Vessel Major and Minor Maintenance and Repairs: Maintenance or repairs to vessels which have the potential to pollute or contaminate the lands or waters administered by the NPS, are authorized only in the following areas:
Concessioner locations: Land based boat repair shops and associated grounds designed for the purpose of major boat repair.
Determination: This closure protects natural and cultural resources as well as accommodates park visitors and the park concessions operations to maintain vessel operations.
Aquatic Invasive Species Self Certification: All watercraft are required to perform AIS self-inspections of their vessels prior to launching in park waters and fill out a “Mussel-free certification” that will be displayed in the windshield of the towing/transporting vehicle. The self-certification must be filled out and displayed whenever a vessel is launched at Lake Roosevelt NRA. Provided the vessel has not been launched out of the State of Washington, a single form may be used for multiple launches. If the vessel is launched out of the State of Washington, a boat inspection must be performed, and the self-certification must be completed anew. CUA’s and SUP’s must follow authorization and permit guidance.
Determination: This will help prevent the transport and spread of aquatic animal species that can cause damage to LARO waters, park infrastructure, visitor watercraft and comply with WDFW's R.C.W. 77.15.253 Unlawful Use of Prohibited Aquatic Animal Species.
Filming and Still Photography:
Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity that occurs in closed areas, requires exclusive use of a site or area, or involves a set or staging equipment other than handheld equipment (such as a tripod, monopod, and handheld lighting equipment), requires a permit, unless the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under written authorization, such as a special use permit. Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area 2026 Superintendent’s Compendium 10
Filming still photography, and audio recording that involves more than eight individuals requires a permit, unless the NPS has specifically notified an individual or group that a permit is not required, or if the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.
If a permit is required for the reasons stated above, or if the NPS otherwise determines and notifies an individual or group that a permit is required for filming, still photography, or audio recording activity, then engaging in that activity is prohibited. Violating a term or condition of a permit issued by the NPS for filming, still photography, or audio recording activity is prohibited, and may result in the suspension or revocation of the permit, in addition to any penalties that may apply.
Determination: Federal law at 54 U.S.C. 100905 states that permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording in park areas if certain requirements are met. These requirements address various topics, including, but not limited to, group size, location, equipment, potential impacts to resources and visitors, and the likelihood that the NPS will incur related administrative costs. If any of these requirements are not met, the law allows the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the NPS, to require a permit for the subject activity. Permit requirements are imposed by the superintendent under discretionary authority provided by 36 CFR 1.5(a)(2), which allows the superintendent to impose conditions or restrictions on a use or activity, consistent with applicable legislation, to implement management responsibilities. The general regulations for permits in 36 CFR 1.6 do not apply to permits issued for filming, still photography, and audio recording, which instead are governed by the statutory provisions in 54 U.S.C. 100905. The imposition of permit requirements, on a case-by-case basis, for filming, still photography, or audio recording does not require rulemaking under 36 CFR 1.5(b). Requiring a permit with reasonable terms and conditions in accordance with statutory requirements at 54 U.S.C. 100905 is not highly controversial, will not result in a significant alteration in the public use pattern of the System unit, will not adversely affect the System unit’s natural, aesthetic, scenic or cultural values, or require a long-term or significant modification in the resource management objectives of the System unit, because the permit requirement is limited in time and scope to the specific activities authorized by the permit, which contain terms and conditions that protect the values, resources, and visitors of the System unit, and implements federal law.
36 CFR §1.6 – Activities that require a permit
(f) The following is a compilation of those activities for which a permit from the Superintendent is required:
§2.1(a)(1)(ii) Removal of wood (except as noted in §2.1 of this Compendium)
§2.4(d) Carrying, possessing or use of a trap, fishing seine, or wildlife research collection net (exception – Non-Commercial use of crayfish pots or traps per current Washington State fishing regulations) (see also §2.3(a))
§2.5(a) Specimen collection (Taking a plant, fish, wildlife, rocks, or minerals)
§2.10(a) Camping in vehicle-accessible (fee) campgrounds. (Rec.gov for permits)
§2.12(a)(2) Operating a power saw in developed areas.
§2.12(a)(3) Operating any type of portable motor or engine, except motorboats
§2.17(a)(3) Delivery or retrieval of a person or object by parachute, helicopter, or other airborne means, except in emergencies, or as provided in 36 CFR §7.55(b).
§2.17(c)(1) Removal of a downed aircraft.
§2.23(b) Using designated boat launches (Pay.gov for permits)
§2.37 Soliciting or demanding gifts, money, goods, or services
§2.38(a) Use, possession, storage, or transportation of explosives
§2.38(b) Use or possession of fireworks
§2.50(a) Conducting a sports event, pageant, regatta, public spectator attraction, entertainment, ceremony, and similar events.
§2.51(b) Demonstrations by groups of 26 or more
§2.52(a) Sale or distribution of printed matter that is solely commercial advertising
§2.62(b) Scattering of human ashes from cremation
§3.19 Operating a submersible
§4.11(a) Exceeding established vehicle load, weight, and size limit.
§5.1 Displaying, posting, or distributing commercial notices or advertisements
§5.3 Engaging in or soliciting any business
§5.5(a) Some filming, still photography, and audio recording (depends upon facts and circumstances). 36 CFR 1.5(a)(2) and 54 USC 100905.
§5.6(c) Use of commercial vehicles on park area roads to access adjacent private lands
§5.7 Constructing or attempting to construct any building, structure, dock, road, trail, path, or public or private utility upon, across, over, thru, or under any park area
§6.9(a) Operation of a solid waste disposal site
36 CFR Part 2 - Resource Protection, Public Use and Recreation
(a) (4) Dead wood on the ground, including driftwood, may be collected for use as fuel for campfires in the park. (See also §2.13 of this Compendium)
Determination: Pursuant to Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations, §1.5(c) and §2.1(a)(4) the Superintendent of LRNRA has determined that the collection of dead wood on the ground may be collected for campfires within LRNRA. The collection of such material will not cause an adverse impact and may help to reduce the fire hazard presented by the accumulation of such materials in shoreline camping areas. The prohibition on the disturbance of standing timber and attached branches remains unchanged. The operation of a power saw in LRNRA requires a permit in accordance with §1.6 and §2.12(a)(2) and §2.12(a)(3).
(a) (5) The following historic structures may be entered between 6am and 10pm or during the posted hours of operation:
The Fort Spokane Guard House
The Fort Spokane Quartermaster’s Stable
The Fort Spokane Powder Magazine
The Fort Spokane Foundations
St. Paul’s Mission
Kettle Falls Town site at Locust Grove
Old Marcus Island Town site
Determination: These hours are necessary for the health and safety of park visitors and to protect the natural and cultural resources.
(c) (1) Certain fruits, berries, mushrooms, and nuts may be gathered by hand for personal use or consumption with the following conditions:
One quart per day per person for native species.
Introduced fruit species (including apples) may be collected by hand in quantities up to 1 bushel (9.3 gallons) per day per person.
Determination: The gathering of small amounts of native fruits, berries, and nuts will not adversely affect the reproductive potential of these species or otherwise adversely affect LRNRA resources. The collection and removal of small amounts of non-native fruits will not adversely affect LRNRA resources or historical sites.
(d) The transporting of lawfully taken and properly tagged wildlife through the park is permitted.
Determination: No conditions or procedures at present. (e) Viewing of wildlife with artificial light is prohibited.
(e) Viewing of wildlife with artificial light is prohibited.
Determination: Night vision devices are not artificial lights; however, infrared lighting/laser beams are considered artificial lights and are included in this prohibition. This restriction does not apply to the lawful taking of wildlife in accordance with Washington State hunting regulations.
The following campgrounds/areas have been designated for camping:
Spring Canyon (No tents allowed on the grassy area of the upper loop, upper loop closed Dec 1 - Mar 31) • Plum Point (Boat-In only-No fee)
Keller Ferry (Concession operated)
Goldsmith (Boat-In only-No fee)
Penix Canyon (Boat-In only-No fee)
Jones Bay (open April 1 to November 30th only)
Sterling Point (Boat-In only-No fee)
Hawk Creek (open April 1 to November 30th only)
Fort Spokane (Back loop closed Oct 1 - April 30)
Crystal Cove (Boat-In only-No fee)
Ponderosa (Boat-In only-No fee)
Detillion (Boat-In only-No fee)
Porcupine Bay (open April 1 to November 30th only)
Enterprise (Boat-In only-No fee)
Hellsgate Youth Camp
Hunters (open April 1 to November 30th only)
Gifford (open April 1 to November 30th only)
Cloverleaf- Tent Only (open May 1 to September 30th only)
Haag Cove (open April 1 to November 30th only)
Kettle Falls (Loops 2 & 3 closed Dec 1 - Mar 31)
Marcus Island (open April 1 to November 30th only)
Summer Island (Boat-In only-No fee)
Evans (open April 1 to November 30th only)
North Gorge (open April 1 to November 30th only)
Snag Cove (open April 1 to November 30th only)
Kamloops (open April 1 to November 30th only)
Kettle River (open April 1 to November 30th only)
Camp Na-Bor-Lee
Shoreline Boat-In camping outside of developed areas. (see special conditions listed below)
The following terms and conditions apply to all designated campgrounds/areas
All Camping fees will be paid via the Recreation.gov website except Keller Ferry and Camp Na-Bor-Lee campgrounds.
All dump/fill station fees will be paid via the pay.gov website. One fee per reservation, or each use for those not camping in our campgrounds.
Operation of generators or audio devices is prohibited during the hours of 10 pm to 6 am (quiet hours) in campgrounds. At all times generators must be adequately muffled and not create excessive noise as defined in 36 CFR §2.12.
Determination: Generators and audio devices are often present with campers to provide music and power for entertainment at campsites. Audio devices turned up louder than the ambient sound level of the resident camp can affect neighboring campers. Generators and audio devices operating after 10 p.m. create visitor conflicts related to the noise.
Camping by vehicle is permitted only in developed fee campgrounds. Access to boat-in camping areas is authorized only by vessel.
All campgrounds accessible by vehicle are available by reservation only. Boat-in only and shoreline camping are available on a first come, first served basis.
Overnight occupancy of the campsite is required for each night of stay. Holding campsites is prohibited.
Camping is limited to 14 consecutive nights per campground within any 30-day period and not more than 60 total nights per calendar year anywhere within LRNRA. These limits apply to all camping activities within LRNRA.
The following terms and conditions apply to all fee campgrounds in addition to the conditions above:
Camping reservations are due prior to occupying a campsite. Checkout time for unpaid days is 12 pm.
All campground and group site fees must be paid through recreation.gov.
Campsites must be paid for in full for the time occupied.
All vehicles, trailers, and associated camping equipment must be confined to the designated campsite where delineated. The wheels of all vehicles and trailers must be within the designated parking space and not on the roadway or vegetation.
The following maximum occupancy limits are established for individual and group campsites:
A maximum of 10 persons per individual site.
The following maximum occupancy limits are established for the following group campsites.
Determination: Pursuant to 36 CFR §1.5(c) and §2.10(a) the Superintendent of LRNRA has determined that these limitations are necessary for public health and safety, protection of the environmental and scenic values, protection of natural resources, implementation of management responsibilities, and equitable use of facilities and avoidance of conflict among visitor use activities.
Camping time limits are intended to prevent domination of a campsite or the area by a relative few and to more equitably allocate use of the area.
The maximum size limit in designated campgrounds is established to minimize impacts to the environment. These limits are a common industry standard and are applicable in the interest of resource protection and to minimize obtrusiveness to other visitors.
The following conditions apply to Boat-In Camping:
Boat-in camping (from or aboard a vessel), is permitted only at boat-in campgrounds or in undeveloped areas, provided the camp is at least 1/2 mile from a developed area. This does not include boaters possessing a current moorage rental agreement with an authorized concessioner or community access point for moorage while camping at their authorized location. See also §2.14(b) for sanitation requirements.
(a)(1) The lighting or maintaining of fires is generally prohibited, except as provided for in the following designated areas or receptacles, and under the conditions noted:
Designated areas:
All LRNRA campsites or picnic areas where NPS-provided fire receptacles are located.
The exposed lakebed, below the high-water mark of 1290’ elevation, year-round, unless closed as in (c) below.
Conditions on lighting or maintaining a fire:
A fire may be ignited and maintained only by using fuel sources designed and commonly used for warmth or the preparation of food, such as charcoal briquettes or natural firewood. Lighting or maintaining a fire with other materials including, but not limited to, flammable liquids, garbage, fireworks, plastics, aerosol canisters, batteries, or other manufactured or synthetic materials, is prohibited.
Established conditions for exposed lakebed fires:
Fire size must be less than three feet in diameter.
Fires must be at least ten feet from the nearest beach logs, structure, or vegetation.
Chemically treated wood, painted wood, wood with nails or staples shall not be used.
Fires must be above ground (no pit fires) and attended at all times
Fires must be completely extinguished with water, doused, and stirred. Fires shall not be covered with sand as it will insulate the heat and create an unseen danger for wildlife and visitors.
Debris burning, including plastics, cans and other refuse is not permitted.
The use or creation of rock rings for fires is prohibited.
Determination: These restrictions are necessary for the maintenance of public health and safety, protection of environmental or scenic values, protection of natural or cultural resources, and the implementation of management responsibilities. Materials other than approved combustibles – especially fire accelerants and substances prone to wind transport or explosion – creates serious risks when used to light or maintain fires. These combustibles can ignite or spread wildfires that directly threaten people and valuable resources and assets. The burning of manufactured or synthetic materials can contribute to air pollution, contaminate soil and water, and be toxic to humans and the environment
(c) High fire danger closures can be in effect whenever the Park Superintendent issues a fire closure for areas that include LRNRA.
Determination: During very hot, dry weather conditions, strong winds, and extreme fire danger days, or by order of the Superintendent, fires of any type may be prohibited in the LRNRA. Visitors may contact the LRNRA headquarters office during regular business hours at (509-754-7800) or visit www.nps.gov/laro to check on current conditions. Five counties adjoin LRNRA, and there may be different closures in different counties. To reduce confusion, LRNRA will either be completely open or completely closed to certain types of fires.
Past events have demonstrated that LRNRA experiences periods of high fire danger, which require aggressive fire management. The purposes of these restrictions are to reduce the possibility of an uncontrolled wildfire, and are in effect to protect the natural and cultural resources of LRNRA, and ensure the safety of LRNRA visitors and facilities.
(b) Conditions for the disposal, containerization, and carryout of human body waste are as follows:
When boat-in camping, all persons will have an approved means of containing solid human waste (portable toilet). Devices must be manufactured for the specific use of containing solid human waste and must either meet NPS requirements for washable and reusable toilet systems that can be emptied into pump out facilities or dump stations, or be EPA approved for the purpose of introducing solid human waste into landfills. Commercially available products include Wag Bag® and Restop®. Campers must have an adequate number of portable toilets to meet the needs of all the members within the group.
When camping at a designated boat-in campground where toilets are provided by the NPS, possession of portable toilets is not required.
All recreational boats with installed toilet facilities must have an operable Marine Sanitation Device (MSD) on board. All installed MSDs must be US Coast Guard certified. (Refer to U.S. Coast Guard Boating Requirements). Boaters not wanting to use installed on-board toilet facilities must have another approved portable toilet for containing solid human waste.
The overboard discharge of human waste, treated or not, into or upon any LRNRA lands or waters is prohibited.
Human waste and grey water from containers shall be disposed of only at pump out facilities in concession marinas or provided by NPS on the lake, or at RV dump stations on the land. Disposing of human waste and grey water from containers into restroom facility toilets, trash receptacles, or in any other manner is prohibited (36 CFR 2.14 (a)(8)). An exception to this rule will be allowed for commercially made solid waste container bags that state on the bag that they are safe for disposal in a normal trash receptacle.
Determination: Existing regulations for disposal of solid human waste do not adequately protect the shoreline recreational setting and the environmental quality of LRNRA because of visitor use patterns and fluctuating lake levels. Disposal of solid human waste as required above is necessary to protect human health and the environment, including water quality. The use of paper or plastic bags (except approved devices as noted above) is prohibited because they may clog the human waste facilities or cause damage to equipment.
(a)(5) Pet excrement must be immediately collected and disposed of in a trash receptacle. (b) Dogs may be used off-leash in support of legal hunting activities in accordance with Federal and State laws.
Determination: Pursuant to 36 CFR §1.5(c) and §2.15(a)(1) the Superintendent of LRNRA has determined that these restrictions are necessary to provide for the protection of resources, wildlife and public safety. While traveling and camping with pets may be a positive experience for the owner, pets frequently have negative impacts on LRNRA resources, notably wildlife, and on the experience of other visitors. These impacts include, but are not limited to, noise, pursuit, harassment, defecation, and scent marking of wildlife habitat. In those cases where a pet facilitates access (e.g., service animals or in support of legal hunting activities) the use of such pets is allowed.
(a) The following animals are designated as pack animals for the purposes of transporting equipment:
Horse
Burro
Mule
Llama
(b) The use of riding and pack animals on lands (including drawdown areas) within the park is authorized.
(d) Loose herding on trails
No areas designated
(g) Other conditions concerning the use of horses or pack animals:
Tying pack animals or horses within 500 feet of any developed campground is prohibited.
Leaving pack animals or horses unattended for more than 24 hours is prohibited.
Only certified weed free hay or commercially processed feed pellets may be used.
Determination: Pursuant to 36 CFR §1.5(c) and §2.16(g) the Superintendent of LRNRA has determined that these conditions are the minimum necessary to provide for the protection of LRNRA resources. The management of LRNRA includes an aggressive invasive weed program, and these conditions complement existing state and federal programs to minimize the spread of exotic invasive species.
(c) There are no designated routes or waterways.
Determination: No further restriction is being placed above the requirements of this section in the CFR.
The use of roller skates, skateboards, roller skis, coasting vehicles, and similar non-motorized devices are permitted only on paved roads and parking areas.
Determination: LRNRA receives over a 1.5 million visitors per year. These restrictions are intended to reduce any possible conflict between users, protect resources, and to maintain public safety.
(a) The following buildings and facilities are closed to smoking:
All public buildings including administrative offices, concession facilities, visitor centers, maintenance shops, restrooms and amphitheaters
NPS-owned or leased motor vehicles and boats.
Determination: Smoking has been prohibited to protect LRNRA property, reduce the risk of fire, and prevent conflicts among visitor use activities.
(a)(2) Vehicles and/or boat trailers may be parked unattended at:
Boat launch parking lots for the duration of overnight camping trips, 14 consecutive days or maximum of 60 days total.
Determination: Unattended property is inconsistent with the orderly management of LRNRA areas and may present a threat to LRNRA resources and equitable use of LRNRA facilities.
(b) Recreation fees are established for the following specialized sites and facilities:
Daily Site Use Fee Areas:
All NPS-maintained boat launch ramps (Pay.gov)
All NPS-maintained vehicle campgrounds (Recreation.gov)
All NPS-maintained fill and dump station (Pay.gov)
Determination: Federal law states each Federal agency developing, administering or providing specialized sites, facilities, equipment or services related to outdoor recreation shall provide for the collection of special recreation use fees for the use of sites, facilities, equipment or services furnished at Federal expense.
(a)(1) The use and possession of alcoholic beverages within park areas is allowed in accordance with the provisions of this section.
(a)(3)(i) The consumption of alcoholic beverages or possession of an open container of an alcoholic beverage is prohibited within all government-owned buildings, except residences, unless specifically authorized.
Determination: The consumption of alcoholic beverages within LRNRA buildings is an inappropriate activity considering the historic nature of the structures and the purposes for which they are maintained.
(b) NPS employees are authorized to possess legal fireworks, as described in WAC 212-17-060, in government-owned residences. Use of fireworks within LRNRA is still prohibited.
Determination: NPS employees may possess those fireworks of the type approved for public use as described. The discharge of such fireworks is prohibited per 36 CFR 2.38. More information is available at this website: http://apps.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=212-17-060
36 CFR §2.51(a) – Public Assemblies, Meetings, Gatherings, Demonstrations, Parades, and Other Expressions of Views, and §2.52 Sale of Deistribution of Printed Matter.
Demonstrations of 25 people or less are allowed within the park areas designated as available under paragraph (c)(2). Demonstrations of more than 25 people are allowed within designated areas when the Superintendent has issued a permit for the activity. (c)(2)
The following locations are designated as available for demonstrations:
Headquarters area- Grassy area just below Headquarters.
Spring Canyon- Grassy Day use area next to Maintenance Shed.
Fort Spokane- Grassy area near white entry gate.
Kettle Falls- Wooded area outside of front gate near Boise Road.
The scattering of human ashes is prohibited except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit, or in areas designated by the Superintendent.
No areas designated
Determination: No further restriction is being placed above the requirements of this section in the CFR.
36 CFR Part 3 - Boating and Water Use Activity
The following areas are designated areas of Special Anchorage:
Rickey Point Community Access Point
That portion of Lake Roosevelt enclosed by the shore and a line connecting the following points: 48°33'37.70"N / 118° 7'26.27"W thence north to 48°33'41"N / 118° 7'25"W., thence easterly to a point on the shoreline at 48°33'40"N. / 118° 7'12"W.
Rantz Marine Park Community Access Point
That portion of Lake Roosevelt enclosed by the shore and a line connecting the following points: 47°55’1”N / 118°32’55”, thence north west to a point on the shoreline at 47°55’7.00”N / 118°33’2.00”W.
Determination: The designation of Rantz Marine Park Community Access Point and the Rickey Point Community Access Point as areas of special anchorage is necessary to clarify the requirements and exemptions afforded these areas. Both locations already support buoy fields operating under Special Use Permits. This designation, authorized by 33 CFR §1.05 1(e)(1)(i) and 36 CFR §3.2(a) establish these two locations as areas of special anchorage within the meaning of 33 CFR §83.30(g).
(a)(2) The following areas are designated for the use of trailers to launch or retrieve vessels: During periods of low lake surface levels, these ramps may be closed to protect the public and natural or cultural resources.
Minimum Launch Elevation for Use
Crescent Lake (no gas motors)
1307 feet
Hawk Creek Boat Launch
1281 feet
Marcus Island Boat Launch
1281 feet
Evans Boat Launch
1280 feet
Napoleon Bridge Boat Launch
1280 feet
North Gorge Boat Launch
1280 feet
China Bend Boat Launch
1277 feet
Snag Cove Boat Launch
1277 feet
Rantz Marine Park Community Access Point
1269 feet
Jones Bay Boat Launch
1268 feet
Crescent Bay Boat Launch
1265 feet
Daisy Boat Launch
1265 feet
French Rock Boat Launch
1265 feet
Hanson Harbor Boat Launch
1253 feet
Bradbury Beach Boat Launch
1251 feet
Gifford Boat Launch
1249 feet
Fort Spokane Boat Launch
1247 feet
Lincoln Boat Launch
1245 feet
Porcupine Bay Boat Launch
1243 feet
Kettle Falls Boat Launch
1234 feet
Hunters Boat Launch
1232 feet
Keller Ferry Boat Launch
1229 feet
Seven Bays Marina Boat Launch
1227 feet
Spring Canyon Boat Launch
1222 feet
Recorded information on the lake level is available at (800) 824-4916, or at the internet site maintained by the US Bureau of Reclamation http://www.usbr.gov/pn/grandcoulee/lakelevel/
No other areas are designated or authorized for the launching and/or the retrieval of vessels using trailers. Small vessels (canoes, kayaks, rowboats, etc.) may be launched by hand anywhere within LRNRA.
Determination: The launching and retrieval locations have been designated dependent on lake levels and the length of the ramps. Northern locations typically have shallower launching and retrieval sites due to topography. Identifying launching/retrieval locations and the necessary minimum lake level will help minimize incidents of off-road travel, disturbance to submerged archeological sites, and resource damage from traveling on the lakebed during periods of water drawdown.
Crescent Bay Lake (no gas motors: See 1.5(a)(2)).
From the mouth of Hawk Creek to the base of the waterfall.
On the Kettle River from the northern LRNRA boundary downstream to Napoleon Bridge.
From the mouth of the Kettle River to the North end of Kamloops campground.
On the Colville River, from Highway 25 bridge to the eastern LRNRA boundary.
From the downriver point of Two Rivers Marina, upstream to the Fort Spokane Boat Launch.
Determination: The designation reflects language existing in the special regulations for LRNRA in 36 CFR §7.55 and the LRNRA Shoreline Management Plan.
(a) The towing of persons by vessels is authorized within LRNRA except in designated no wake zones.
Refer to 36 CFR §3.8 (b)(3) of this compendium for areas designated as no wake zones.
(a)(1) – It is the responsibility of the owner to remove and salvage a sunken or grounded vessel. The Superintendent may establish conditions in which the vessel must be removed. The vessel should be removed as soon as possible by the owner of the vessel and must not exceed 3 days from the date of the accident without authorization from the superintendent. (b) The Superintendent may prohibit the removal of a vessel upon a written determination that the removal would constitute an unacceptable risk to human life, cause extensive resource damage, or is impractical or impossible.
Determination: The responsibility for the removal of sunken or grounded vessels lies with the owner of the vessel, however the NPS often has interest in the means to which the vessels are removed, and how long those operations take. Often there are concerns with the spilling of hazardous materials into the lake, and frequently recovery operations can significantly
impact visitor uses in the area.
(a) The following areas are designateSpring Canyon
Keller Ferry
Fort Spokane
Porcupine Bay
Hunters
Cloverleaf
Bradbury Beach
Kettle Falls: the small bay / pond south of the picnic area and playground
Marcus
Evans
(b) The following activities are prohibited within the waters of LRNRA:
The use of soap, detergent, or shampoo.
Sitting on, standing on, or diving from floating log booms.
Use of hard bottom boats, paddleboards, and canoes within boomed beach access areas.
Diving from or engaging in unsafe behavior on floating platforms.
Swimming, using inflatable toy water devices in harbors, or marinas, or within 100 feet of launch ramps, docks and “No Swimming” signs.
The possession or use of glass containers of any type is prohibited at designated beach access areas
Determination: This restriction on glass containers is based on safety and environmental concerns. The type and severity of injuries associated with discarded or broken glass containers continues to be a concern. Numerous other choices are available for beach users including repackaging beverages into plastic or reusable containers and the use of aluminum cans which are readily recyclable.
(a) Snorkeling and underwater diving are prohibited in the following locations:
Within boomed harbors and marinas, except when occurring pursuant to vessel recovery operation as provided under §3.14 of this Compendium.
Within 500’ of boat launch ramps listed in §3.8 of this Compendium.
Determination: These restrictions are the minimum necessary to prevent conflicting activities in congested areas around launch ramps where navigation around divers may be impractical or impossible. Diving activities for administrative purposes such as repairing docks and conducting condition assessments are permitted.
36 CFR Part 4 - Vehicles and Traffic Safety
The maximum speed limit on roads within the recreation area is as posted.
Determination: Due to local geographic limitations such as hills, steep grades, curves, narrow roads, trees, narrow or missing shoulders, the local speed limits may be different than provided for under §4.21(a).
36 CFR Part 7 - Special Regulations, Areas of the National Park System
See 36 CFR 1.5(a)(1) for area restrictions.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
Park footer
Contact Info
Mailing Address:
Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area
1008 Crest Drive
Coulee Dam,
WA
99116
Phone:
509-754-7800
Please leave a detailed message if no one answers your call. Our rangers are often out talking to visitors.
