⛵ Pontoon Lake Billy Chinook from Cove Palisades Marina

Lake Billy Chinook is a flooded canyon at the confluence of three rivers — the Crooked, Deschutes, and Metolius — with sheer basalt walls and three distinct arms to explore. Cove Palisades Marina rents pontoons (and other boats) for the day. Easy boats for families with built-in shade. Each river arm has its own character.

Good to know

• Reserve early for July and August — pontoons can fill out weekends in advance.
• Each arm is different: Crooked is closest and rugged; Deschutes is long with classic canyon views; Metolius is cold and glassy.
• Bring: Food, drinks, sunscreen, towels — marina has snacks, not full meals.
• Lifejackets are typically included with rental; tubing/water-ski add-ons available.
• Fishing on Lake Billy Chinook: Bull trout are present and must be released (protected). Kokanee are popular by trolling (e.g. Wedding Rings, dodgers). Smallmouth bass in the coves on jigs and plastics. Always check current ODFW regulations.
• Day-use fee on top of rental — Cove Palisades is an Oregon State Park.

Safety: The Crooked River canyon directly below CRR (visible from the rim) is hike-in only via Otter Bench, Scout Camp, or Lone Pine trails. Do not attempt to launch a boat from the property — the canyon is unsafe for any watercraft. All boating destinations below are reached via separate access roads.