Idaho is a pretty special place when it comes to state parks. Not only are we home to 30 beautiful state parks, but we are also home to the oldest state park in the Northwest. We love our parks and it should be every Idahoan’s mission to visit them all. Of course, it can be overwhelming knowing where to even start. We’ve got your back. If you only see one state park, make it this one. The incredible park boasts the most amazing scenery and also contains a fascinating history.
Farragut State Park is a hidden gem of a park tucked away in the Coeur d'Alene Mountains. The park is about 4,000 acres and located east of the small town of Athol. This beautiful area offers some of the most gorgeous scenery in Idaho.
The park boasts endless recreational opportunities. It's a popular day-use site as well as a campsite, hosting miles upon miles of pristine hiking trails.
The creation of the park is a unique story in itself. Farragut was once home to the second largest naval training center in the country. The training center was built shortly after the Pearl Harbor attacks during World War II. By the end of the 1940s, the training center was out of commission.
During its time as a training center, Farragut hosted more than 293,000 men. Today, a museum remains in the park where you can learn all about the park's importance during the war. The museum contains authentic boot camp and war memorabilia .
The park sits at the southern end of one of Idaho's most majestic lakes. The divine Lake Pend Oreille is usually crowded with people during the summer time. During the off-season, the lake is a tranquil oasis amid the quiet and vast wilderness.
The park sees visitors during all times of the year. Even in winter when its covered in piles of snow, Farragut is full of things to do and see. People often take advantage of the park's numerous well-groomed trails for snowshoeing and snowmobiling.
Farragut contains several campsites, but they also offer cabins if you're seeking something a little more comfortable. There's truly nothing like spending the night in the crown jewel of Idaho's state parks.
Although the park is just a short drive from cities like Sandpoint and Coeur d'Alene, the park feels far away from the hustle and bustle of society. You're bound to come across some of the park's natural inhabitants!
Whether you stay at the park for a couple hours or an entire weekend, you're bound to be blown away at the incomparable beauty. All of Idaho's state parks are pretty special, but this one is a must-visit for all!
