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Hells Canyon Creek Boat Launch

The Hells Canyon Creek Boat Launch is located in the upper end of the Wild and Scenic Snake River about 1 mile below the Hells Canyon Dam. The recreation site is popular with anglers, powerboaters, float boats, and visitors desiring to see the wild river and Hells Canyon. Set along the river below the craggy canyon cliffs, the site is next to the Hells Canyon Creek Visitor Center, which is seasonally staffed, however the outdoor displays are available year-round. The visitor center and boat launch are managed in partnership with the Idaho Power Corporation.

See the information below for Wild and Scenic Snake River permits required for all power and float boats.

Fish Your National Forests: This site can be accessed by Passenger Car; Fish available include Salmon, Steelhead, Trout, Bass; Types of fishing available include Wade, Shore, Motorized boat, Fly, Spin; Boat Launch available

General Information

Open 24 hours/day

A Snake River boaters permit is required for all float boats and power boats visiting the Wild and Scenic Snake River.

General rules of use and restrictions apply for this developed recreation site.

A Snake River boaters permit is required for all float boats and power boats visiting the Wild and Scenic Snake River.

Powerboat and float boat reservations and permits are needed for this site.

Getting There

Latitude / Longitude

Latitude: 45.25386361

Longitude: -116.6931472

Directions

From Baker City, OR, go north on Interstate 84 for 2 miles to exit 302 on Highway 86; Turn right on State Highway 86 east and go 68 miles to Oxbow, Oregon; In Oxbow go by the Idaho Power Copperfield Park on your right and cross the river into Idaho; After crossing the bridge turn left and follow Road 454 for 20 miles to Hells Canyon Dam; Go across the Hells Canyon Dam and follow the paved road for about 1 mile to the Hells Canyon Creek Visior Center and Boat Launch.

Advisory: The 454 road is a private road maintained by Idaho Power Company. It is narrow and winding with rocks and debris common on the road.

Parking

Limited parking at site; additional parking along forest road

Facility and Amenity Information

Accessibility

Restrooms

Restrooms are available at this site.

Water

Potable water is not available at this site.

Picnic Tables

Picnic tables are available at this site.

At picnic area

Last updated April 23rd, 2025