BLOOMINGTON – The City of Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department has announced updated hours of operation and pricing for the Griffy Lake Boathouse, 3400 North Headley Road, for the 2026 season.
Adjustments reflect rising operational costs, more convenient seasonal access, and continued investment in safe, high-quality recreation at one of Bloomington’s most popular outdoor destinations.
2026 Boathouse Hours
- April: Saturday and Sunday only, 9 a.m.–6 p.m.
- May–August: Daily, 8 a.m.–8 p.m.
- September: Daily, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. (New: Later opening and closing)
- October: Saturday and Sunday only, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. (New: Later opening and closing)
Watercraft Rental Prices
- Hourly watercraft rental: $12 per hour (up from $10 in 2025)
- 10-hour rental punch pass: $100 per pass (up from $90 in 2025)
- The punch pass now offers a $20 savings, doubling the discount offered in 2025.
- Late fees: $20 for every 30 minutes overdue (replaces the previous flat late fee)
Launch Permit Prices
Daily Launch Permits
- $10 per day (unchanged from 2025)
- Same rate for motorized and non-motorized watercraft
Annual Launch Permits
- Motorized: $125 per year (up from $100 in 2025)
- Non-motorized: $100 per year (unchanged from 2025)
- Additional household permits: $30 each (unchanged from 2025)
New in 2026:
If annual launch permits remain available after Labor Day, permits will be sold at a discounted rate of $40 per permit, while supplies last.
New Photo ID Requirement
To improve accuracy in rental waivers and ensure the safety of lake users, renters and launch permit holders will now be required to present a state- or university-issued photo ID when renting a watercraft or launching a personal watercraft at Griffy Lake. Contact information will be stored electronically for up to 30 days for safety and operational purposes, then securely deleted.
For more information about Griffy Lake Boathouse hours, rentals, and launch permits, visit bloomington.in.gov/griffylake or call 812-349-3700.
