Idaho is a treasure trove of natural beauty, boasting some of the most stunning state parks in the United States. From the tallest single-structured sand dune in North America at Bruneau Dunes State Park to the pristine waters and hiking trails of Ponderosa and Farragut State Parks, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast seeking challenging trails or a history buff wanting to know more about the area, Idaho’s state parks offer a unique blend of outdoor adventure and historical education.
Let’s take a look at some of the best state parks in the state.
10. Thousand Springs State Park
Thousand Springs State Park, located in the area of southern Idaho known as the Magic Valley, is an expansive park that offers a diverse range of outdoor activities for visitors. The park is made up of six unique units: Malad Gorge, Kelton Trail, Earl M. Hardy Box Canyon Springs Nature Preserve, Billingsley Creek, Ritter Island, and Thousand Springs. Each unit provides a unique opportunity for exploration and enjoyment, from hiking and camping to wildlife viewing and experiencing the remarkable geology of the region.
The park is positioned just off I-84 near Tuttle, close to the Hagerman Valley, making it a great stop along the Thousand Springs Scenic Byway. The springs that burst out of the canyon walls represent the end of a journey for water that has traveled through the Snake River Plain Aquifer, giving the park its name. With its rich history and breathtaking views, Thousand Springs State Park is truly a testament to why this region is called the Magic Valley.
9. Bear Lake State Park
Bear Lake State Park, nestled in the southeastern corner of Idaho near the Cache mountain range, is a recreational getaway that offers plenty of outdoor fun. The park, accessible from US 89, is approximately 2 hours south of Pocatello, Idaho. The park is especially noted for its turquoise waters, earning it the nickname “Caribbean of the Rockies.”
Visitors can enjoy a wide range of water-based activities, such as sailing, boating, jet skiing, and fishing. The two-mile-long North Beach is a particular highlight, with its gradual slope providing an ideal spot for swimmers. The park also offers group campsites for gatherings large and small.
8. Harriman State Park
(image via Moelyn Photos/Moment/Getty Images)
Harriman State Park, located in the greater Yellowstone Ecosystem in Fremont County, Idaho, spans across an 11,000-acre wildlife refuge. The park is famous for its gorgeous landscapes and abundant wildlife, which include moose, elk, and sandhill cranes. It offers plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding across its 22 miles of trails.
On top of all that, Harriman State Park is recognized as one of the best fly-fishing streams in the region. Rich in history, the park also has ties to the old railroad, providing a unique historical context to its visitors. Whether you’re an adventurer, a nature lover, or a history buff, Harriman State Park is worth a visit if you have the time.
7. Ponderosa State Park
Ponderosa State Park, located in McCall, Idaho, is a year-round destination park that offers a unique mix of outdoor activities. Situated on a 1,000-acre peninsula that juts into Payette Lake, the park provides stunning views, particularly from the scenic overlook at Osprey Point. A standout feature of the park is its premium Nordic ski grooming opportunities, boasting 12 miles of groomed trails.
For those wishing to stay overnight, the park offers unique accommodations with different rates for Idaho residents and non-residents. Just 1.5 miles from downtown McCall, Ponderosa State Park is not only easily accessible but also a testament to the natural beauty of Idaho.
6. Farragut State Park
Farragut State Park, located on the southern tip of Lake Pend Oreille in northern Idaho, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This 4,000-acre park, once a World War II-era naval training station, now has over 40 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Located about 30 miles north of Coeur d’Alene and approximately 40 minutes from Sandpoint via U.S. Highway 9556, the park is easily accessible for visitors.
The park offers camping opportunities with 223 individual sites, 10 camping cabins, and 7 group camps. In addition to land-based recreational activities, Farragut State Park also provides access to boating on beautiful Lake Pend Oreille. With its rich history and recreational opportunities, Farragut State Park is one of the best parks in the state.
5. Bruneau Dunes State Park
Bruneau Dunes State Park, located in Owyhee County in southwestern Idaho, is a unique public recreation and geologic preservation area. The park is home to the tallest freestanding sand dunes in North America, with the highest peak reaching 470 feet. Established in 1970, the park is just 25 minutes from Mountain Home, Idaho, and offers one of the longest camping seasons in Idaho’s system. The park encompasses diverse habitats, including deserts, dunes, prairies, lakes, and marshes, providing opportunities for visitors to observe nocturnal species. Activities include fishing, birdwatching, and hiking the surrounding trails.
Additionally, the park’s observatory, open to the public from early June through mid-October, allows visitors to explore the night sky. Bruneau Dunes State Park is one of the most unique offerings in Idaho’s state park system.
4. Lucky Peak State Park
Lucky Peak State Park, located approximately ten miles east of Boise, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park, which covers a total of 240 acres, is nestled on and near Lucky Peak Lake, offering numerous water-based activities. The park is a haven for swimming, picnicking, fishing, and boating. For those who prefer land-based activities, the park also provides opportunities for biking.
Interestingly, Lucky Peak State Park is the second-busiest park in the Idaho State Parks system. The park is easily accessible, being just a 10-minute car ride from downtown Boise or a 30-minute bike ride on the scenic Boise River Greenbelt. With its multiple recreational offerings and close proximity to Boise, Lucky Peak State Park is a good choice for those who want a quick and easy getaway into the great outdoors.
3. Heyburn State Park
Heyburn State Park, located near Plummer, is a significant landmark as it is the oldest state park in the Pacific Northwest. Established by an act of Congress in 1908, the park spans approximately 5,800 acres and includes around 2,300 acres of water. Nestled on the south end of Lake Coeur d’Alene, the park offers recreational activities such as hiking, biking, camping, and boating.
The Indian Cliff Trail, rated highly by many visitors, is a notable hiking spot within the park. The park also includes the Chatcolet Campground, which sits on a hill above Chatcolet Lake,
2. Priest Lake State Park
Heyburn State Park, located near Plummer, is a significant landmark as it is the oldest state park in the Pacific Northwest. Established by an act of Congress in 1908, the park spans approximately 5,800 acres and includes around 2,300 acres of water. Nestled on the south end of Lake Coeur d’Alene, the park offers recreational activities such as hiking, biking, camping, and boating.
The Indian Cliff Trail, rated highly by many visitors, is a notable hiking spot within the park. The park also includes the Chatcolet Campground, which sits on a hill above Chatcolet Lake,
1. Three Island Crossing State Park
Three Island Crossing State Park, located in Glenns Ferry, is a history-focused public recreation area. Just two miles off Interstate 84, the park is easily accessible and less than a 1.5-hour drive from Boise. The park is situated on the Snake River and is home to The Oregon Trail History & Education Center, where visitors can learn about the significant historical events that took place in the area.
Three Island Crossing was a crucial and challenging river crossing on the Oregon Trail, making it a significant location in Idaho’s history. The park offers various activities, including camping with water and electrical service, and it also houses eight cabins. With 82 campsites divided into two loops, the park provides ample space for visitors to enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.
