FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Skamania County Announces Updated Boat Launch Permit Process and Fee Structure
CLICK HERE FOR A PDF OF THIS RELEASE
December 17, 2025 — Stevenson, WA
Skamania County is implementing updates to its boat launch permitting process to better manage facility capacity and maintain safe, fair access to county launch sites. These changes include revised permit fees, updated guide pass rules, and new requirements aimed at improving operations at both Drano Lake and Home Valley.
All 2026 permits will go on sale Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at 8:00 a.m.
Updated Permit Fees
Annual
- Skamania County Resident Pass:$20
- Non-County Resident Pass:$40
- County Guide Service Pass:$300
- Valid at Drano Lake and Home Valley launch sites
- Requires proof of a Washington State Business license with a Skamania County address
- Non-County Guide Service Pass:$500
- Valid only at the Drano Lake Boat Launch
- No out-of-state guide permits will be sold at this time.
- Requires a valid Washington State Business license
Temporary
- Daily Pass:$10
- 3-Day Pass:$20
Guide Pass Requirements
In-County Licensed Guides
The annual in-county guide permit fee has increased to $300.
- Valid at both Home Valley and Drano Lake facilities
- Guides must coordinate and communicate off-site parking arrangements for clients
- Must present a valid Washington State Business license showing a Skamania County address
Out-of-County Licensed Guides
The annual out-of-county guide permit fee has increased to $500.
- Valid only at the Drano Lake Boat Launch
- Out-of-county guides are not permitted to use the Home Valley facility until further notice
- Guides must coordinate and communicate off-site parking for clients
- Must present a valid Washington State Business license
- No out-of-state guides may purchase launch permits at this time.
*Guide passes may be purchased online or at the Skamania County Annex Office during regular business hours (Mon–Thu, 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.).
Skamania County has updated the County Ordinance related to the enforcement of these passes. You can expect increased enforcement in 2026. These changes will continually be evaluated to ensure we allow the most use within the facility's capacity. We appreciate your patience as we work through these changes and evaluate the needs.
Contact
For additional information, please contact:
David Waymire
davidw@co.skamania.wa.us
Public Works / Community Development Director
Skamania County
(509) 427-3910
