Boat Launches In Washington: Open Or Closed?

There are many boat launches in Washington State, including at several state parks. Some of the boat launches in Washington State include the 10th Street Boat Launch in Everett, the Alki Boat Launch in Lake Washington, the American Lake Park Boat Launch, and the Alder Lake Atlantic City Boat Launch. There are also boat launches at Triton Cove State Park, Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park, and Steamboat Rock State Park. The new Keystone Boat Launch at Fort Casey State Park is expected to open in June.

Boat launch fees and permits

Daily Launch Fees

Washington State Parks offer watercraft launch sites at over 40 parks across Washington, and they charge a daily fee of $7, which grants you access to the launch sites and other amenities within the parks. This fee helps maintain the launch sites and ensures they are in good condition for boaters to use safely.

Annual Passes for Savings

If you plan to use the boat launch sites frequently, purchasing an annual pass can result in significant savings. Washington State Parks offer the Natural Investment Permit for $80, valid for one year from the month of purchase. This permit covers day-use parking, watercraft launch, and dump stations, making it a cost-effective option for regular boaters.

Boat Launch Locations and Rates

Specific boat launch locations in Washington State, such as those listed on Washington Boat Launches, provide detailed information on their websites, including pictures of the launch sites, fee amounts, and parking information. These sites cover popular locations like the Puget Sound, Lake Washington, and the Columbia River. It is recommended to check the specific launch site you plan to use for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Camping and Moorage Fee Increases

It is important to be aware that camping and moorage fees are subject to change due to inflation and rising costs. These fee increases are implemented to continue providing great experiences for visitors to Washington State Parks. Be sure to stay informed about any fee adjustments, especially if you plan to utilize camping and moorage facilities in addition to boat launches.

New Launch Sites and Projects

Washington State Parks are constantly working to improve and expand their offerings. For example, the new Keystone Boat Launch on Whidbey Island, part of Fort Casey Historical State Park, is expected to open in June. This project includes infrastructure improvements and storm protection measures, ensuring better safety and accessibility for boaters.

In summary, boat launch fees and permits in Washington State are designed to provide access to a wide range of launch sites while also generating revenue for maintenance and improvements. By understanding the fee structure and permit options, boaters can make informed decisions and contribute to the upkeep of these valuable recreational facilities.

Boat launch locations

There are many boat launch locations across Washington State, with over 40 parks offering watercraft launch sites. A daily fee of $7 is charged to use these sites. However, if you plan to use these sites often, you can buy a Natural Investment permit for $80, which is valid for one year and covers day-use parking, watercraft launch, and dump stations.

• Alder Lake
• Lake Washington
• Lake Sammamish
• Lake Chelan
• Lake Roosevelt
• Swantown
• Swinomish
• Wenatchee Confluence State Park
• Wanapum Recreation Area
• Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park
• Triton Cove State Park
• Steamboat Rock State Park
• Sequim Bay State Park
• Riverside State Park
• Potholes State Park

Additionally, some cities and counties in Washington State have multiple boat launch locations, including:

• Everett
• Lake Stevens
• Stanwood
• Seattle
• Anacortes
• Vashon
• Kennewick
• Lopez Island
• Kettle Falls
• Port Orchard
• Eatonville
• Kenmore
• Marysville
• Ocean Shores
• Monroe
• Colville
• Gig Harbor
• Richland

Camping and moorage fees

Washington State Parks offers watercraft launch sites at over 40 parks across Washington. Fees are charged year-round, and the daily fee is $7. To save money, you can buy a Natural Investment permit for $80. This permit is valid for one year from the month of purchase and covers day-use parking, watercraft launch, and dump stations.

The Washington State Park Commission manages more than 100 state parks and properties, totalling approximately 120,000 acres. The commission provides a variety of recreation opportunities for citizens, including camping and boating.

• Wenatchee Confluence State Park: This 197-acre year-round camping park is situated at the confluence of the Wenatchee and Columbia rivers. It offers urban and recreational facilities at the North Confluence and a natural wetland area at the South Confluence.
• Wanapum Recreation Area: This park features 27,000 feet of freshwater shoreline on the Wanapum Reservoir on the Columbia River.
• Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park: This 235-acre inland waters camping park is located on the forested south shore of Lake Chelan. The park offers visitors excellent boating access to the upper reaches of the lake.
• Twanoh State Park: Twanoh State Park is situated on the shoreline of Hood Canal and is known for having one of the warmest saltwater beaches in Washington State. The 182-acre marine camping park has 3,167 feet of saltwater shoreline.
• Triton Cove State Park: This 29-acre day-use park has 555 feet of saltwater shore on Hood Canal. Triton Cove offers an ADA-compliant boat launch with access to near-shore fishing, and future plans include the potential addition of camping facilities.

Boating safety

Boat launches are available at over 40 parks across Washington State, and fees are charged year-round. The daily fee is $7, but you can save money by purchasing a Natural Investment permit for $80, which is valid for one year and covers day-use parking, watercraft launch, and dump stations.

Before boating, it is important to familiarise yourself with the laws and regulations that apply to you out on the water. These laws and rules are covered in the Adventures in Boating Washington Handbook. Some waterways have additional equipment and operational restrictions, so it is worth checking with the local sheriff's office or police department for local regulations.

In Washington state, operating a boat under the influence (BUI) is a gross misdemeanour and can result in a fine of up to $5,000 and up to a year in jail. The legal limit for operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol is .08, and for marijuana, it is 5.0 nanograms. The safest way to enjoy the water is to be alcohol-free. If alcohol is involved, the skipper must remain sober and able to operate the boat safely and exercise reasonable care for their passengers. This law applies to all boats, including kayaks, canoes and rafts.

In terms of safety, it is important to learn the regulations related to vessel length, capacity, proper fueling, and how to secure a boat to a trailer. Familiarise yourself with navigational rules and what to do in bad weather and emergencies. You can take a boating safety course to learn more about this. In Washington, anyone operating a powered watercraft of 15 hp or more is required by law to pass a boater safety course and carry a boater education card.

New boat launches

There are several new boat launches in Washington State, offering exciting opportunities for boaters to explore different waterways and experience the beauty of the region from the water. Here are some details about some of the new boat launches:

Keystone Boat Launch at Fort Casey:

The new Keystone Boat Launch, located at Fort Casey on Whidbey Island, is a welcome addition to the boating community. With construction beginning in late 2022, this $2.4 million project is expected to be completed by June. The launch is part of the Fort Casey Historical State Park and offers easy access to the waters of Puget Sound. This launch features new guide piles, floats, a breakwater, and shoreline restoration, providing a safe and convenient entry point for boaters.

Wenatchee Confluence State Park:

Wenatchee Confluence State Park, situated at the confluence of the Wenatchee and Columbia rivers, offers a unique boating experience. The park spans 197 acres and presents two distinct personalities: the urban and recreational North Confluence and the natural wetland beauty of the South Confluence. With its year-round camping facilities and easy access to two major rivers, this new boat launch site is a great option for those looking to explore the waters of central Washington.

Triton Cove State Park:

Triton Cove State Park, located on the Hood Canal, is a relatively new boat launch site. This small, 29-acre day-use park boasts 555 feet of saltwater shoreline and provides an ADA-compliant boat launch, making it accessible to all. Triton Cove is an excellent choice for those seeking near-shore fishing opportunities and a convenient entry point to the Hood Canal, one of the warmest saltwater bodies in Puget Sound.

Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park:

For those looking to explore the upper reaches of Lake Chelan, the new boat launch at Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park is a great find. This 235-acre inland waters camping park is surrounded by breathtaking scenery, with the mountains reflecting off the lake's serene waters. The modern marina at this park offers excellent boating access and is a perfect base for exploring the lake's many coves and inlets.

Sequim Bay State Park:

Sequim Bay State Park, nestled just inside Puget Sound on the Olympic Peninsula, is a year-round marine camping park spanning 92 acres with 4,909 feet of saltwater coastline. The calm bay and dry air make it an ideal location for boating and various interpretive opportunities. The new boat launch at Sequim Bay provides easy access to the protected waters of the bay, making it a great choice for boaters seeking a peaceful and scenic experience.

These new boat launches in Washington State offer diverse options for boaters, from the saltwater shores of Puget Sound to the tranquil lakes and rivers of the inland regions. Each launch provides a gateway to explore the state's natural beauty and engage in a variety of recreational activities, catering to both camping enthusiasts and day-use visitors alike.

Frequently asked questions