Frequently Asked Questions- Lake Roosevelt
How do I get to the Lake?
From Spokane: Lake Roosevelt is about 97 miles from Spokane. Take US-2 W for 62 miles, take a right on WA-21, then take WA-174 for 19 miles. Take a right on Spokane Way, then a quick right on Federal Avenue, then one more quick right onto WA-155. You'll take this for 6.5 miles. Then, turn right on Peter Dan Road. In three miles, you'll turn right on BIA-45 and arrive at Lake Roosevelt in a mile and a half.
From Seattle: Lake Roosevelt is about 239 miles away from Seattle. To get there, take I-90 E from Seattle for about 150 miles. Take exit number 151 (WA-283), turn right and take WA-283 for fifteen miles. Then, continue on WA-28 for 11 miles before turning left on WA-17 and taking this for 21 miles. Turn right on US-2, go 4 miles, and this will become WA-155. Take this for 33 miles, turn right on Peter Dan Road, and turn right on BIA-45. One and a half miles later, you'll be at Lake Roosevelt.
Click here to see a map and directions for Lake Roosevelt.
When do I pick up the boat?
You may pick up your boat any time after 8 AM on the first day of your rental. Your boat is due back at the marina by 2 PM on the final day.
How many people are allowed on the boat?
Our boats are approved for a variety of group sizes, exceeding these limits lead to problems with holding tanks and usually submerged motors, for these reasons the maximum allowed on each boat is 12 plus the chatterer.
What will the temperatures be like on my trip?
The lake is warm from mid-summer through late fall and pleasantly cool in the shoulder seasons. Winter and early to mid-spring water temperatures are too cold for extended swimming without a wetsuit. View a month-by-month list of temperatures here.
How difficult is driving a houseboat?
Driving a houseboat is different than driving a car, but is not that difficult. When you reserve your houseboat, we will send you a video or DVD in the mail with a basic overview of houseboat operations. The marina staff will also walk you through driving the boat when you pick it up. Most people get the hand of maneuvering the boat within a few minutes.
If you’re concerned about your ability to handle the boat, you may arrange for a captain to guide you out of the marina or drive you to a specific destination on the lake.
What is the billing schedule?
At the time of booking, you must pay a $500 deposit to confirm your reservation of the houseboat. After that, the remainder is paid in Four (4) payments, one each month prior to departure Personal checks, money orders, or cashier's check are accepted for the monthly payments.
How do I check availability or reserve a houseboat?
Give us a call at 888-454-8825, and one of our reservation agents will be happy to check availability for you. It’s helpful if you already have an idea of when you want to go and what boat you’re most interested in when you call.
Alternatively, you can contact us online with your availability request, and one of our agents will be happy to get back to you with the information you need.
How early do I need to reserve?
Lake Roosevelt is a very popular lake. Some of our boats have been known to book out more than two years in advance. The earlier the better is a good rule to follow, particularly if you have an exact date in mind for your trip, or if you’re planning a trip over a holiday weekend.
However, if you’re flexible with your dates or the exact houseboat model, we can almost always find a trip for you even a few weeks before hand.
Are linens included with my houseboat rental?
Linens are not provided. You may bring your own or rent a linen package for the beds for $25.
Are pets allowed on my houseboat?
It is strongly discouraged. Small pets are allowed on the houseboats for a non-refundable $25 fee per pet.
Where is the nearest grocery store so I can stock up before my trip?
There is a convenience store right at the marina. Wal-Mart, Safeway, Super One, located nine miles south on highway 395.
How old do you have to be to rent the houseboats?
The renter needs to be 25 years of age with a valid drivers license.
Do I need a license to operate the houseboats, or is a skipper provided?
There is no special license needed to operate our houseboats. There are rules for operating houseboats on the waterways, and we will explain them to you upon your arrival.
Will I get seasick on a houseboat?
Houseboats are on pontoons and there is very little motion. Seasickness is basically unheard of on fresh water.
What is the best time of year to go houseboating?
It is always a good time to go houseboating! Summer is the most popular and busiest season. Fall offers Indian Summer days and cooler nights. Springtime is good for viewing abundant wildflowers, waterfalls, and wildlife. Winter is favorable for the anglers, when fishing is at its best. And the rates are significantly lower between September and May.
Can I fish from the houseboat?
Yes! Fishing is a very popular activity on the lake. Walleye is Lake Roosevelt's most sought after species, and it's home to 29 other species. These include rainbow trout and kokanee, and lots of them. Large and small mouth bass can also be found in the lake. The marina stores sell a good variety of bait and tackle for optimizing your chances of catching fish, whether you’re a novice or an expert.
Is there camping along the lake shore?
Lake Roosevelt Recreation Area has no less than 27 campgrounds, some only accessible by boat. While you're shore-camping, you may want to do some wildlife watching. Whitetail and mule deer can be spotted in the thick woods, as can moose, elk and black bear. Pheasant and chukar are among Roosevelt's many bird species.
