Idaho is known for becoming especially creative when it comes to discovering beachy destinations once summer hits. With the coast a full day’s drive from the Gem State, we’ve learned to make do with the beaches that are immediately available to us at any given notice and that’s entirely okay with us. Idaho is home to a surprising amount of swimming destinations and we’re discovering more every year. The beach park featured here is just one of many of our state’s underrated beach spots, and you’ll want to be sure to plan an excursion to it before summer ends.
Hidden away on the edge of Emmett, Idaho is Black Canyon Dam. Surrounding its reservoir are four separate parks, one of which is about to become your new favorite place to spend a summer day with family and friends.
Black Canyon Park is one of southern Idaho's best-kept secrets. The park is open for day-use from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m and the entrance fee is just $5 per vehicle.
Although well-known among some locals, the park definitely comes as a surprise for many. After all, a long and sandy beach is one of the last things you'd expect just outside of Emmett.
Black Canyon Park offers all the typical amenities including restrooms, potable water, boat ramps, gazebos, and plenty of shady spots to stretch out and relax. There's even a volleyball court so be sure to bring your game!
However, the highlight of the park is the beach. It's such a nice surprise! Boasting soft sand (perfect for forming castles) and plenty of shoreline, it's the perfect place to lay out on a hot summer day.
The beach gives you direct access to Black Canyon Reservoir and an area of the reservoir is specifically buoyed off for swimmers. The water is nice and cold, and swimming around in it is a real treat during those sweltering summer days.
However, the beach also welcomes boating activities of all kinds. Water skiing, kayaking, canoeing, and rafting are all great ways to get on the water and have some fun.
It's hidden gems like Black Canyon Park that remind us of why we love living here in Idaho. There's always a new destination to explore and a new beach waiting to be discovered! Start planning a beach day and be sure to visit soon.
