With More Than 8,000 Acres To Explore, One Of Idaho’s Largest State Parks Is Worthy Of A Multi-Day Adventure
By Courtnie Erickson|Published July 25, 2022
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
Heyburn State Park in Idaho is known as the oldest state park in the Pacific Northwest. Founded in 1908, this park in northern Idaho has quite a history. However, it also has much to offer. This is one of the largest state parks in Idaho with approximately 8,000 acres to explore. While you may choose to visit this state park on a delightful day trip, we suggest an entire weekend or longer as there is plenty to see and do.
Heyburn State Park is near the small town of Plummer, located on Highway 95 in the panhandle. While not the largest state park in Idaho, there are still 5,500 acres of land and 2,300 acres of water to explore, making this state park an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.
Heyburn State Park is home to three different lakes — Chatcolet, Benewah, and Hidden Lakes — as well as the St. Joe River, which flows through the eastern portion of the park. And with so much water acreage, you’ll want to spend the majority of your time splashing, floating, and relaxing.
You can swim, kayak, canoe, or boat if you want to spend some time on the water. Don’t forget a fishing pole and try your luck catching a fish in the lake or the river.
If you love riding a bike, bring your bicycle and explore the Coeur d’Alene Bike Trail that runs through the park. This is one of the most popular trails in northern Idaho.
You can also explore this state park on foot. There are several hiking trails that vary in length and difficulty level, making it easy to find the perfect trail for you and your family.
If you are looking for a short and easy trail, check out the Lakeshore Loop Trail. This is a 0.6-mile loop that is flat, easy, and beautiful. Just make sure to keep your eyes open as this is one of the best places to see a moose in the park!
If you choose to stay a few days, give yourself some time to hang out at the campsite. There are two campgrounds in this state park: Chatcolet Campground and Benewah Lake Campground.
With so much to do in Heyburn State Park, one of the largest state parks in Idaho, you’ll certainly want to spend a few days. You can learn more on the Idaho State Parks and Recreation website.
Have you been to this state park in northern Idaho? What are some of your favorite activities to do here? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments!
If you are searching for even more unique and beautiful state parks in Idaho that will completely blow your socks off, check out our list of the best parks in Idaho that you should add to your bucket list ASAP.
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