Lake Chelan is a premier destination for water sports and mountain exploration, stretching 50.5 miles from the arid, vineyard-lined hills of Chelan to the rugged, glacier-carved peaks of the North Cascades. As the third deepest freshwater lake in the United States, its pristine, glacier-fed waters reach depths of nearly 1,500 feet. This dramatic landscape, where steep forested slopes meet crystal-blue water, offers a year-round playground for water-skiing, kayaking, and world-class fishing for kokanee and trout.
To preserve and maintain access to this unique waterway, a Federal Dock Permit is required for all boats using National Forest or National Park Service docks between May 1 and October 31. This permit grants access to numerous boat-in campgrounds and remote trailheads that are otherwise inaccessible by road.
For those planning to overnight, all federal boat-in campgrounds and dock spaces are available strictly on a first-come, first-served basis. During the peak summer high-use season, especially on holiday weekends, dock space and campsites often fill to capacity by Thursday or early Friday.
Safety:
Boaters should note that lake levels fluctuate seasonally for flood control and power generation. Stay vigilant year-round for floating driftwood and large "deadhead" logs. These are common throughout the lake and can pose a significant strike hazard to hulls and propellers, especially after heavy rains or snowmelt. Boaters heading "up-lake" should be prepared for consistent, powerful winds that make the area a favorite for sailors but can create challenging conditions for smaller craft.
Validation: Required May 1 - Oct 31 for all USFS and NPS docks.
Overnight Stays: A permit is required for each day of dock use. Overnight camping requires a minimum of two-day permits or a seasonal permit.
Display: If purchasing via the app, fill out the information on a provided onsite day permit (blue) or seasonal permit (red) slip and display it on your boat dashboard. Digital proof of purchase must be available for inspection by agency staff.
Exclusions: This permit is non-transferable, non-refundable, and does not guarantee dock or campsite availability.
Dock Locations: Permits valid at: Mitchell Creek, Deer Point, Graham Harbor, Prince Creek, Domke Falls, Refrigerator Harbor, Lucerne, Moore Point, Purple Point, Weaver Point, Stehekin Landing, and Manley Wham.
Connectivity: Download the Recreation.gov app and purchase permits before leaving the lower lake; cell service is unavailable in most "up-lake" areas past Wapato Point.