Boasting a spectacular 27 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. No matter what time of year it is, here are seven underappreciated state parks to visit in Idaho. You’re sure to love them all!

1. Three Island Crossing State Park, Glenns Ferry
Rory Fargo/Google
Duncan Buchanan/GoogleMaps
3 Island State Park, Glenns Ferry, ID 83623, USA
Michael Overstreet/Google
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 annual reenactments of the historic crossing. Come for a visit and find out why it's one of the best state parks in Idaho!

Visit the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation website for more information on Three Island Crossing State Park.
2. Round Lake State Park, Sagle
D. Taylor in Idaho/Flickr
Round Lake State Park, 1880 Dufort Rd, Sagle, ID 83860, USA
Round Lake State Park/Facebook
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!

Read our previous coverage to learn more about Round Lake State Park.
3. Lake Walcott State Park, Rupert
Lake Walcott State Park/Facebook
959 Minidoka Dam Rd, Rupert, ID 83350, USA
Mike Medema/GoogleMaps
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. It's one of the best parks in Idaho!

Visit the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation website for more information on Lake Walcott State Park.
4. Winchester Lake State Park, Winchester
bookWinchester Lake State Park/Facepp

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1786 Forrest Rd, Winchester, ID 83555, USA
Winchester Lake State Park/Facebook
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. It certainly offers plenty of things to do outside in Idaho, making it a must-visit state park.

Read our previous post to learn more about Winchester Lake State Park.
5. Henry's Lake State Park, Island Park
Henry's Lake State Park/Facebook
Sally Stronczek/GoogleMaps
3917 E 5100 N, Island Park, ID 83429, USA
Teri Osborn/GoogleMaps
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 bountiful scenery that this Snake River-fed water body provides. It also offers some of the most magnificent hiking trails in Idaho.

Read our previous coverage to learn more about Henry's Lake State Park.
6. Harriman State Park, Island Park
Harriman State Park of Idaho/Facebook
3489 Green Canyon Rd, Island Park, ID 83429, USA
B. Hoffman/GoogleMaps
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. It should be at the top of your list of state parks to visit in Idaho.

Read our previous post to learn more about Harriman State Park.
7. Dworshak State Park, Lenore
Dworshak State Park/Facebook
Dworshak State Park, Lenore, ID 83541, USA
Dworshak State Park/Facebook
Hidden away in North Central Idaho, this 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, an expansive reservoir, and some of the most uncrowded hiking trails in Idaho make this tree-lined gem more idyllic than many realize.

Visit the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation website for more information on Dworshak State Park.

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.

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More to Explore

State Parks To Visit In Idaho

Melissa M. | January 26, 2022

Is Idaho home to any national parks?

Not only is the Gem State home to 27 state parks, but also six national parks. These include City of Rocks National Reserve, Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, Nez Perce National Historic Park, Minidoka National Historic Site, and Yellowstone National Park. 

What are some of the best hiking trails in Idaho?

Between all the state and national parks, you could probably hike forever in Idaho! But seriously though, there are plenty of trails to discover around the state including the trek up to Scotchman Peak. This difficult yet magnificent hike gives those who make it to the summit views of three states plus Canada. The Mount Roothaan Trail is a remote hike but worth it for the views. This is another trail that should only be attempted by those who are prepared for the elevation. 

What state park is considered the best in Idaho?

While each and every one of Idaho’s state parks may be considered “the best” for one reason or another, Travel + Leisure named Farragut State Park the best. This 4,000-acre gem is located along the southern shore of Lake Pend Orielle and visitors are treated to some of the most spectacular scenery in the state. You’ll just have to see for yourself why Farragut State Park is arguably the best of the best in Idaho!

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