Skamania County has worked with the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office related to our efforts to implement updates to its boat launch use process. This process began to better manage facility capacity and maintain safe, fair access to county launch sites. During the conversations, it was brought to the County's attention that they must request a use certification to allow commercial or concession activities at the launch facilities. It was explained to the County that the Guide use would fall into this category. After several meetings, the decision was made to apply for a use certification at the Drano Lake Launch facility based on the size in comparison to the Wind River Launch facility. The formal request was submitted on February 11, 2026, and the request was for the entire calendar year of 2026. On March 3, 2026, the formal approval was received by Skamania County. This means all permitted Guides will be able to use the Drano Lake Launch Facility for this calendar year.
Skamania County will track data related to daily use as well as total permits sold. We must track data in an effort to show that this approved use does not cause a conflict with guest recreational boaters. If the data collected in 2026 warrants the request again in 2027 for one or both boat launch facilities Skamania County will make the request once again. At this time, there have been no closures at either Drano Lake or Wind River boat launch facilities to recreational users. Recreational use is permitted at either facility year-round with the purchase and display of the County resident or non-resident launch pass. Guide passes will only be valid at the Drano Lake launch facility for 2026. In the case of a conflict in access, the County is required to ensure guest recreational boating activities have priority. We ask all Guides and recreational users work to help mitigate any conflicts so we may continue to offer this use in the future.
For additional information, please contact:
David Waymire
davidw@co.skamania.wa.us
Public Works / Community Development Director
Skamania County
(509) 427-3910
