BOATING -- With snowpack levels more than 130 percent of normal for the Dworshak Dam and Reservoir watershed area, regional water-management officials continue to hold Dworshak lake levels at 1,451 feet,  which is 149 feet below full pool (1,600 feet).

That leaves a lot of shoreline to tramp up to the lake's many mini-camps.

But  U.S.Corps of Engineers manaers say there's still plenty of recreation available at the reservoir untilthe runoff flows and enables them to bring levels back up.

Read on for details.

“When the water level does not reach full pool, it’s typically safer for boaters because there are far fewer floating, woody boating hazards – most of the logs and stumps are left high and dry on the banks," said Paul Pence, acting operations manager at the dam.

“While the lower water levels can make it more difficult to access the shoreline mini-camps, the popular destination and safe-harbor docks provide an excellent place for family and friends to meet, picnic, swim and have fun.”

Destination docks are located near the dam in Merrys Bay, Indian Creek, Drift Creek, Cranberry Creek and two at Elk Creek. Safe-harbor docks are located in Freds Bay, Cranberry Creek, Reeds Creek, Weitas Creek and Evans Creek.  Reservoir maps are available at all boat ramp kiosks and the Dworshak Dam Visitor Center.

Big Eddy boat ramp is currently open. The Big Eddy day-use area offers outdoor recreation fun for all ages, including a swim beach, playground, picnic shelters and barbecue grills. The Big Eddy hiking trail connects to Dworshak State Park. Visitors often hike along the trail and picnic at one of several mini-camps along the way. 

The Merrys Bay day-use area, which opened on April 1, offers secluded picnicking and fishing opportunities. 

Those seeking a primitive camping experience can visit Dam View, Canyon Creek or one of the many shoreline mini-camps where primitive camping is available at no charge.

Early season camping is available at Dent Acres Campground. Site fees are $10 per day by self-deposit registration. Regular season camping will start May 19, with full hook-up sites available for $18 per night. Reservations for the regular season can be made by calling (877) 444-6777 or online.

Park rangers say turkey-hunting season is in “full strut” around Dworshak Reservoir. Hunting is allowed on all Corps property around the reservoir except in developed recreation areas.  ATV operation is prohibited off of designated roads and behind gates or fences.

 Boat operators should be sure to keep the fluctuating reservoir levels in mind when anchoring their vessels. 

For updated water level and boat ramp information, call (800) 321-3198. For more information regarding facilities access and current conditions call (208) 476-1255, or stop by the Visitor Center, which is open Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.