In addition to potatoes, Idaho is known for its picturesque outdoor terrain. From mountains to valleys, marshes to forests, you’ll find all kinds of environments across the state. The diversity gives its state parks unique characteristics, and there’s a state park for every kind of terrain and activity. If you’re not sure where to start, check out our list of the top 10 state parks in Idaho.
1. City of Rocks and Castle Rocks
Google rating: 4.8
City of Rocks and Castle Rocks share the honor of being the best state parks in Idaho. Located five miles apart from one another, both parks offer plenty of hiking trails, spectacular views, and campsites. Enjoy the brisk Idaho air as you fish, horseback ride, or simply take a stroll down the trails. City of Rocks and Castle Rocks are notable for their unique rock formations and historic landmarks. While hiking, be on the lookout for prehistoric pictographs carved on the stones!
2. Ponderosa State Park
Google rating: 4.8
Ponderosa State Park sprawls across a peninsula along Payette Lake. Named after the ponderosa pine trees that proliferate the peninsula, Ponderosa State Park has multiple hiking trails that lead to scenic views like Osprey Cliff Overlook. During winter, enjoy Nordic skiing on the cross-country courses. Another notable feature of the park is its varied terrain, ranging from steep cliffs to marshland. No matter what kind of camping you prefer, Ponderosa State Park will have your back; the park offers both cabins and dedicated spaces for tents and RVs.
3. Harriman State Park
Google rating: 4.5
If you’re interested in visiting a large park, look no further than Harriman State Park. Part of a 16,000-acre wildlife refuge, Harriman State Park is bursting with winding trails, flowing creeks, and spectacular views. In addition to hiking and horseback riding across the trails, folks can engage in fly fishing, wildlife watching, and camping. Historic Railroad Ranch buildings are scattered across the refuge, and folks can take tours of the buildings and learn about local history during the summer. In winter, utilize 22 miles of trails for sports like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
4. Lucky Peak State Park
Google rating: 4.7
Lucky Peak State Park is located 10 miles southeast of the capital city of Boise. One of the greatest draws of the park is Sandy Point Beach, where you can relax on the shore or go swimming and boating on the clear waters. Further down the Boise River Greenbelt, you’ll find the Discovery Unit, a separate green space where you can enjoy picnics and play fetch with your dog. Camping is not allowed at Lucky Peak State Park, but folks can engage in plenty of other activities like disc golf, fishing, and hiking.
5. Farragut State Park
Google rating: 4.7
Farragut State Park is located along the shores of Lake Pend Oreille. Formerly a naval training center during World War II, the park has been transformed into a space where you can camp, play sports like disc golf, and go boating. Like other parks on this list, Farragut State Park becomes a winter wonderland when the temperature drops, and you’ll find folks skiing along the trails. To learn more about the region and its history, be sure to check out the Visitor’s Center and the Museum at the Brig!
6. Coeur d’Alene Parkway State Park
Google rating: 4.7
Coeur d’Alene Parkway State Park is located along the lake of the same name. Make the most of the lakeside location by boating, fishing, or simply enjoying a picnic with waterside views. Walk or jog along the trails winding around the lake to get your daily steps in. Coeur d’Alene Parkway State Park draws folks during the winter, not for skiing, but bird watching! Bald Eagles frequent the lake during their annual migration, and you can learn more about the nation’s bird at the information boards along the park.
7. Priest Lake State Park
Google rating: 4.7
Priest Lake State Park resides in northern Idaho, a mere 30 miles south of the US-Canada border. Located along Priest Lake and near the Selkirk Mountains, the park provides a perfect escape from the bustle of city life. The lake is fed by mountain streams, giving the water beautiful clarity that you can enjoy while boating or swimming. Campers rejoice, Priest Lake State Park includes 151 campsites and 5 cabins! Whether you come for winter sports, hiking trails, and wildlife watching, or simply to have a family picnic, you’re guaranteed to have a great time at this park.
8. Coeur d’Alene Old Mission State Park
Google rating: 4.7
Not to be confused with the similarly named state park listed above, Coeur d’Alene Old Mission State Park is located at the site of Idaho’s oldest building, the Mission of the Sacred Heart. Built by Catholic missionaries in the 1850s, the Mission of the Sacred Heart still stands and provides folks the opportunity to learn about the missionaries and the indigenous tribes that once lived on the land. The state park also includes a cemetery and access to the Coeur d’Alene River.
9. Eagle Island State Park
Google rating: 4.6
Eagle Island State Park is located 12 miles northwest of Boise, along the Boise River. This beautiful park features an athletic track, beach, and a disc golf course. Take advantage of five miles of trails dedicated to hiking, horseback riding, or simply taking a morning stroll and enjoying the fresh air. Paddleboards are available for rent, and you can also fish and swim in the river.
10. Lake Cascade State Park
Google rating: 4.6
Last but certainly not least is Lake Cascade State Park. Bring your fishing gear or rent a boat for kayaking and paddle board and hit the water on warm days! You have your pick of the crop of camping opportunities; Lake Cascade State Park features group camping, 279 campsites, and developed campgrounds. Go hiking or biking along the trails and keep an eye out for local wildlife. During winter, bundle up and enjoy skiing and snowshoeing along the trails, or even try your hand at ice fishing!
Planning a move to Idaho? Be sure to check out the safest cities in the state, plus all the information you need to build your home in the Gem State.
All parks have been ranked based on the criteria of popularity, distance from the closest major cities, violent crime, property crime, google ratings, and the number of google reviews.
Sarah graduated from Trinity University in 2012 with a degree in International Relations and Political Science. She writes blogs on new homes, decor, communities, and more for NewHomeSource. When she’s not writing, you can find her spending time with her three cats.
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