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Boating at Raystown Lake
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Plan Your Boat Trip
Fees & PermitsLaunch fees and permits are no longer required at Raystown. Visitors may launch their boat and park free of charge. (State vessel registration, permits and other requirements still apply.) In 2011 staff determined that the day use fee program, established in the mid 1990s, was no longer cost effective to administer. Furthermore; in view of leaner budget times, the program’s labor intensive costs are better put to use in higher priority areas serving the public. ParkingRaystown is a popular boating destination. As such, launches can be very busy with parking areas often filled to capacity on summer weekends and holidays. To avoid a full parking lot we suggest visitors arrive early and take advantage of our launch status hotline for the most up-to-the-hour parking information. Parking spaces are designated by bumpers. Some areas may be restricted to only single cars, shelter users, etc. and are designated by signs. Before launching, be sure adequate parking is available. Parking is available on a first come, first served basis. Visitors are not permitted to reserve parking spaces for any amount of time. All trailer parking is head-in only, no drive thru or reverse parking permitted.
Overnight BoatersFew outdoor experiences can match waking up on a foggy morning to a mirror-like lake or listening to nothing but your line splash and the owls hoot in the dead of night. Overnight boating is permitted at Raystown and those visitors should be familiar with a few specific rules and concerns when it comes to enjoying the lake at night.
No Wake ZonesThe Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission defines no wake speed as the slowest possible speed of a motorboat required to maintain maneuverability so that wake or wash created by the motorboat on the surface is minimal. This speed varies depending upon the size and hull of each boat. Several no wake zones are established at Raystown to ensure safety, environmental protection, and quite relaxation. These zones are identified by no-wake buoy markers. In addition to the zones located on the map to the right boaters should remember that no wake speed is required by law when operating within 100 feet of shorelines, docks, and ramps. These areas may or may not be designated by a buoy marker. Additional situations require no wake speed and are defined by the Fish and Boat Commission. See the Rules and Tips section of this page for details. SeaplanesRaystown Lake is open to seaplanes within a designated landing zone. The sight of a seaplane is exciting, but boaters are reminded to stay clear of moving seaplanes. When on water, seaplanes are subject to all vessel requirements (see Rules and Tips section of this page). Rules & TipsKnowing the rules and planning ahead will help you save a lot– time, stress, money and maybe a life! Plan before you go and get the most out of your vacation! Raystown lands and waters are subject to Federal rules and regulations AND Commonwealth boating laws. Federal rules and regulations are posted at every bulletin board for reference. Copies are available from a ranger, the Visitor Center or by clicking the brochure to the right. The following is a partial list of rules provided to address common boating related questions and concerns.
Bobber's Boating Tips
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Imagine how many burn spots would deface our shoreline if everyone decided to have their own campfire. Shoreline fires are prohibited.
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