7 Under-Appreciated State Parks In Idaho You’re Sure To Love
Boasting a spectacular 26 state parks and natural areas, alongside an already incredible 5.2 million acres of protected wilderness and countless city parks, Idaho is an outdoor lover’s dream. Still, with so many parks spread out across our big-little state, it’s natural that some will get overlooked or simply go unappreciated. With spring here and summer just around the corner, here are 7 underappreciated parks in Idaho you’re sure to love.
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The "Three Island Crossing" was the most difficult river crossing on the 2,200-mile Oregon Trail. Between 300,000 to 400,000 pioneers made the crossing of the Snake River Ford between 1841 and 1871, until Gustavus Glenn established a ferry crossing nearby. But the high, rapid waters that challenged pioneers makes this waterfront state park and campground a true gem - along with its onsite interpretive center, and recently revived annual reenactments of the historic crossing.
Tucked away in Idaho's Panhandle, near Sagle, this beautiful, shaded park is family oriented and truly magnificent in every season. The lake is good for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming, with a gently beach area and recreation rentals available. In the winter, it seems to be a popular ice fishing lake too!
This true hidden gem in Southern Idaho doesn't get nearly enough attention. Easy boat access to the lake and green, uncrowded spaces means you can camp out without fear of too many neighbors. A frisbee golf course and gift shop are also onsite, with plenty of paved walking trails as well.
Winchester Lake State Park is a truly magical destination, which is why we've featured it before as one of Idaho's best-kept secrets. Quaint bridges, plenty of wildlife, woodsy trails (which are simply divine in winter), and plenty of grassy areas for lounging all make this a fantastic hidden gem.
Henry's Fork is a favorite destination for anglers throughout the Northwest, but many people forget to check out Henry's Lake and enjoy the bounty of scenery that this Snake River-fed water body provides.
Tucked away in the Yellowstone ecosystem, this expansive park is lush, unique, and makes the perfect getaway, whether or not you choose to stay in one of the park's famous yurts. Fields of wild flowers, colorful butterflies, and wildlife abound - and the fresh air coming off of the nearby lakes and rivers is life-changing.
Hidden away in North Central Idaho, Orofino's gorgeous state park is as overlooked as the town's waterfront setting. While being home to the tallest dam in Idaho is quite the spectacular sight, simple camping spaces, uncrowded trails, and an expansive reservoir makes this tree-lined gem more idyllic than many realize.
Idaho is lucky to have so many gorgeous natural areas to enjoy! Make it a bucket list goal to visit each of Idaho’s state parks – you won’t regret it.
