2021 Tips for Enjoying Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area

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Published: Tuesday, 22 June 2021 16:15

With over 1.5 million visitors in 2020, the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area (LRNA) was more popular than ever as people headed outdoors during the pandemic. Over the winter and spring, NPS staff has been repairing and replacing septic and water systems, painting, and more to prepare for 2021.

Here are some updates to help with trip planning.

Campgrounds

All vehicle-accessible campgrounds are open. Making a reservation is now required. Visit recreation.gov or call 877-444-6777 to choose and pay for your campsite. Because cell service is very spotty at Lake Roosevelt, visitors are encouraged to make reservations before arriving at the campground.

Fees are now $23 per night from May 1 through September 30. The increase reflects the cost of implementing a reservation system, as well as compliance with a legal requirement to maintain fee charges to be at or near that of other campgrounds in the area.

Group gathering limits, masks and other social distancing requirements will reflect CDC and state guidance. As these can change quickly, visiting the LRNA information and alerts page is strongly recommended before traveling.

What’s Not Open

Due to the pandemic, the following facilities are expected to remain closed:

  • Fort Spokane Visitor Center
  • Floating toilets
  • Fish cleaning stations

In addition, the restroom facility at the Fort Spokane boat launch is closed until further notice while extensive septic system repairs are designed and completed.

Boat Launches

The boat launch fee payment has also been automated.  At a launch, users will use their smart phone to scan a QR code to access the payment system. Visitors can also purchase a weekly or annual boat launch pass through pay.gov.

Concessions

Concessions at Kettle Falls, Seven Bays and Keller Ferry marinas are fully operational. Visit their web sites to learn about their services, e.g.—houseboat rentals, food, fuel and sewage pump out.

Pack-it-in, Pack-it-out

Whether you’re camping overnight at a beach or enjoying a day trip, it’s critical for all garbage and human waste to be responsibly collected and disposed. With floating toilets not available this year, it’s particularly important to plan accordingly. In addition, all overnight boat camping requires bringing an appropriate toilet device.