Little Goose Lock and Dam Helipad

Common Complaints

• Basic Airport Facilities: The Little Goose State Airport has a 3400-foot gravel surface, which can be loose and may not be suitable for low-wing, lower-prop aircraft.
• Maintenance Concerns (Airport): Issues such as tall weeds and delayed efforts to compact gravel and apply asphalt emulsion exist, leading to warnings about potential prop strikes. The airport is explicitly "use-at-your-own-risk."
• Limited Amenities (Airport): There are no fire rings, outhouses, or water directly at the airport; restrooms are available about a quarter-mile away in the park.
• Dam Crossing Restrictions: Public access for crossing the Little Goose Lock and Dam is limited to specific hours (generally Monday through Thursday, once an hour, on the half-hour from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) and can be subject to temporary closures for maintenance, operations, or security reasons.
• Exposure to Elements (Camping): Campsites at Little Goose Landing are exposed to wind and direct sun, and only a small grove of trees offers shade.
• Wildlife Presence: Travelers are advised to watch for snakes when walking around the airport.

Overall, travelers to the Little Goose Lock and Dam Helipad (US-12761), which functions as the Little Goose State Airport, should anticipate a rustic, recreational experience rather than a typical airport environment. While the surrounding area offers ample opportunities for outdoor enjoyment and dam tours, the airport itself has basic facilities and requires pilots to exercise caution. There are no traditional terminal facilities, security wait times, or customs/immigration experiences as found at commercial airports.