Shoshone Lake

Apply via mail before 4/1. They chose on 4/11 randomly.

Or you can apply, 48 hours before hand or day off

• Day One Route : http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=4226326
• Day Two Route : http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=4226328
• Day Three : All the way Out

Topo Maps

• Lewis Lake Topo
• Shoshone Lake Topo
• Lewis and Shoshone Lake Topo

To avoid making reservations that we most likely won't be able to honor, sites 8Q1, 8R2, 8S5, & 8T1 may not be reserved for camping on days before July 1. Sites 8Q6, 8Q7, 8T3, & 8T5 may not be reserved for camping on dates before July 15. These sites might be dry enough for camping earlier than these dates, and in that case you may obtain permits for them when you arrive in the park. Please check at a ranger station or call the Backcountry Office for current conditions.

Permits for boating parties must be picked up at the South Entrance, Grant Village, or Bridge Bay backcountry offices

Party size is limited to eight people per campsite. Groups larger than eight must secure multiple sites and be prepared to cook and camp at their individual sites. They are encouraged to paddle together, but they may not congregate at a single site.

Wood fires are not allowed. Gas stoves, lanterns, and heaters are allowed. Charcoal fires are allowed in fire pans or grills elevated above mineral soil. All coals and ashes must be packed out.

High winds are an almost daily occurrence on the lake. Arrange your itineraries to avoid open-water crossings in the afternoon. Travel in early morning or late afternoon for easier and safer conditions. We suggest you select a site on the southern shore of the lake for the first night of any trip. Travel close to shore and within sight of other party members. Limit wind and wave exposure by using protected bays. If a crossing is necessary, evaluate conditions wisely and cross only at “the Narrows” (see map). Place at least one experienced paddler in each boat and consider practicing capsize recovery techniques with all party members prior to your trip.

Paddling upstream on the Lewis River channel is not possible for about the northernmost mile of the channel. Prepare to wade in cold water while dragging your boat through a rocky-bottomed stream. Water shoes are strongly recommended. In early to mid-June, during spring runoff, expect depths of up to 3–4 feet and extremely cold temperatures. In mid-July and August depth ranges are lower. Motors used to cross Lewis Lake are not allowed in the river channel. They must be removed and left at the south end of the channel.

Campsites