7 Lesser-Known State Parks In Idaho That Will Absolutely Amaze You
Currently, Idaho is home to 30 glorious state parks. Each one offers up its own unique scenery and a variety of attractions. If you’re an outdoor lover, it should definitely be your mission to visit them all, especially the ones that tend to get overlooked the most. Looking for a place to start? Check out these 7 lesser-known state parks that fly under the radar compared to more well-known parks but still offer up some unforgettable adventures. How many can you say you’ve been to already?
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Located eight miles west of Boise, Eagle Island State Park is an oasis. The park is comprised of 545 acres of pure beauty and features a swimming beach, picnic area, and tons of picturesque hiking trails. The park even contains a gigantic waterslide that is open every year from Memorial Day to Labor day. You'll find it at 165 S Eagle Island PKWY
Eagle, Idaho.
Located near Rupert, Lake Walcott State Park is absolute heaven for recreation enthusiasts. Featuring plenty of fishing opportunities, a disc golf course, and an abundance of campsites, the fun is truly endless at Lake Walcott. The next time you're looking for a quiet destination to get away from it all, plan a visit to this park. You'll find it at 959 E Minidoka Dam Rd Rupert, Idaho.
Located in Lewiston, Hells Gate is by far one of Idaho's most unique state parks. The park itself sits on a river bottom that was exposed after the Great Ice Age floods over 15,000 years ago. Here you'll also find massive basaltic columns that date back 14 million years ago and remnants of an old Nez Perce village. There's a ton of history to explore here, and you'll definitely want to see it for yourself. You'll find it at 5100 Hells Gate Rd, Lewiston, ID 83501.
Located east of Boise, Lucky Peak State Park is the perfect summertime destination. The park is comprised of three distinct day use units which boast a variety of recreational uses. It's just a 10 minute car ride from Boise, yet the park feels like a serene getaway. You'll find it at 9725 ID-21, Boise, ID 83716.
Surrounding the 104-acre Winchester Lake, this park is a popular fishing destination. The lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game and the park is home to an abundance of standard and yurt campsites. This place is truly the perfect escape from civilization. You'll find it at 1786 Forest Rd, Winchester, ID 83555.
Massacre Rocks State Park is a famous spot along the Oregon Trail. It's located along the glorious Snake River west of American Falls. The park is famous for a unique configuration of boulders which have been dubbed "Massacre Rocks" and was often used as a campsite for emigrants travelling along the trail. Many of the emigrants actually carved their names onto a rock that is referred to as Register Rock, which you can see even to this day. You'll find the park at 3592 Park Ln, American Falls, ID 83211.
It's amazing to think that more people don't know about the incredible Henry's Lake located near Island Park. This dreamy mountain lake is an angler's dream come true since it contains a huge amount of Yellowstone cutthroat. The park is also home to a variety of migrating bird species and 83 overnight campgrounds that are perfect for your next adventure! You'll find it at 3917 E. 5100 N., Island Park, ID 83429.
Have you visited any of these lesser-known state parks yet? We’re lucky to have so many unique parks to explore in our state. For example, did you know the oldest state park in the northwest is located right here in Idaho? It’s true!
