Reserving campsites: Search for and reserve available campsites at Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Campsites can be reserved up to 180 days in advance. Note: not all recreation sites take reservations.

Fee comparison: All fees have been set to maintain comparable fee schedules with other federal, state, county and private campgrounds. All fees meet the requirements set in Engineering Publication 1130-2-550. Fee comparability within the same state and district is outlined in Paragraph 9 of EP 1130-2-550.

Hunting guidelines: USACE rules and regulations for the public use of Corps lands are described in Title 36, Chapter III, Part 327. All State hunting regulations apply to U.S. Army Corps lands.  For more information on state regulations:
            Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife
            Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife

Willamette Valley:  The Willamette Valley Hunting Guidelines and Maps provides more detailed information specific to hunting at the Willamette Valley Project lakes. Hunters should be aware that some of the lands surrounding Corps reservoirs are managed by other County, State, and Federal agencies and different guidelines may apply. Hunters are responsible for recognizing private land boundaries and should not hunt on private land without permission of the landowner.

Rogue River:  Information about hunting at Applegate project should be obtained from local U.S. Forest Service offices. Rifle hunting is allowed in designated areas at Elk Creek and Lost Creek reservoir, with restrictions.

Columbia River:  Information about hunting at Bonneville, The Dalles, and John Day projects should be obtained from local park ranger offices.

Firearm policy: The current regulation prohibits the possession of firearms unless being used for hunting, at authorized shooting ranges, or if written permission has been received from the District Commander. Please contact the Portland District Public Affairs at 503-808-4510 or cenwp-pa@usace.army.mil.

In general, geocaching can be a fun and appropriate recreational activity at Corps projects, provided the security or missions of the project are not compromised. It provides an opportunity for positive interactions and partnerships with local groups involved in this activity. Monitoring of web sites, communication and participation with these groups can form healthy relationships with benefits to all involved. Working with these groups can prevent problems and promote the Corps as a willing partner. Regulation should be based on common-sense needs of specific projects or areas, with a minimal permitting burden on the recreating public. Read more about the policy here.

Drone policy: For both safety and security reasons, the operation of Unmanned Aircraft Systems is prohibited. See Title 36 C.F.R. 327.4 for more details. 

Seaplanes on Corps lakes: Seaplanes may be operated seven days a week between sunrise and sunset at all Portland District lakes with the exception of Big Cliff, Applegate and Willow Creek lakes. Once on the water seaplanes shall be considered powerboats and must be operated in accordance with marine rules of the road. Seaplanes in the water may taxi to any area of the lake subject to the powerboating restrictions for those lakes. For more information, see: Seaplane operations at Corps of Engineers lakes.

Natural features, rocks and minerals, vegetation, historical or archaeological artifact, and paleontological resources are all a part of our public lands. Collection, excavation, or vandalism of these resources on public lands is prohibited by Federal laws. Enforcement penalties include fines and/or imprisonment.