Hunting

Front profile of a turkey

Gabe Yellowhawk

The regulations for hunting within Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area are designed to provide a meaningful and safe experience for hunters. Lake Roosevelt NRA 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 the Code of Federal Regulations 36 CFR, section 7.55(a) 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. Note that many park visitors are unaware that hunting activities occur within the recreation area.

Lake Roosevelt NRA adopts Washington State Hunting Seasons and Regulations. The National Park Service has additional restrictions on hunting that aren't found in the state guides. The following are some of the federal regulations that also apply to hunters within Lake Roosevelt NRA:

  • Hunting is prohibited within 500 feet of all developed areas within the recreation area. Hunters are urged to avoid any areas where other visitors are present. Anyone hunting is responsible for ensuring that they do so safely at all times and locations.

  • Possession of firearms is allowed at Lake Roosevelt and must be in accordance with Washington State law.

  • Viewing and hunting of wildlife with artificial light is prohibited, except when allowed by Washington State law.

  • Permanent tree stands and "screw-in" tree stand steps are prohibited.

  • All vehicles must remain on designated roadways and the use of all Off-road vehicles (ORV's) is prohibited throughout the Recreation Area.

  • All trash and other man-made materials must be packed out and deposited in trash receptacles.

  • Target shooting or the sighting in of weapons, including bow and arrow, is prohibited.

  • Trapping is prohibited in the Recreation Area.

  • The possession and use of any other device capable of firing/launching a projectile (e.g. paintball guns, BB/pellet guns, water balloon and potato launchers, cannons, catapults and slingshots), is prohibited.


Additional information can be found on the Laws and Policies page

Last updated: April 26, 2024

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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.

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