IDFG announces closure of Cocolalla camp site

Idaho Fish and Game manages a fishing and boating access site on the northern end of Cocolalla Lake. However, a small camping area at the site has been closed, according to Idaho Department of Fish & Game.

The access site, which is available free of charge for users, is the only public boat ramp on the lake which makes it popular with anglers, IDFG officials said.

Unfortunately, there have been many challenges with managing the campground. For instance, it has been routine for folks to overstay the camping limit and leave excessive amounts of garbage behind. Even worse, illegal activity has become more common and presents a safety risk for other users.

Offering camping opportunity for the public is something that Idaho Fish and Game values and has tried hard to maintain, IDFG said in a press release announcing the closure. However, the increased level law enforcement and cleanup required at this site is not sustainable. As a result, IDFG officials made the decision to close the site to overnight camping and make it a day use only site.

“Providing a clean and safe place for folks to enjoy fishing and boating is our priority,” IDFG officials said in the release. “We are disappointed with the lost opportunity for campers, but we are hopeful that day users have a better and safer experience when visiting Cocolalla Lake.”

The department recently installed docks at the boat ramp for the season and graded the parking lot. In addition, IDFG was able to increase the number of rainbow trout that will be stocked in Cocolalla Lake this year. Good fishing opportunity exists for a variety of species, such as rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, brown trout, brook trout, yellow perch, and channel catfish.