Idaho’s state parks are absolute wonderlands of natural beauty, remote tranquility, and family-oriented recreation in every season. But few people realize that the Gem State paved the way for the state park system in the West by establishing what would become the oldest state park in the entire Pacific Northwest — which is quite a feat! Fortunately, like all of Idaho’s most tantalizing historical locations, Heyburn State Park is as gorgeous as they come… and with more than a few natural wonders hidden amongst its wealth of scenery.

Established in 1908, Heyburn State Park in Plummer is the oldest state park in the Pacific Northwest.
Wikimedia Commons
The park is named for prominent Idaho senator W.B. Heyburn, but long before its birthday as an official state park, the lush landscape was inhabited by the Coeur d'Alene Indian tribe. The forested landscape has since been changed by French traders, Presidential decrees, and more, each playing their role in making the park what it is today: the "great grandfather" of all parks in the Pacific Northwest, and the perfect place to experience a true American natural landscape.
Nearly 8,000 acres of breathtaking waterfront scenery make up the park's landscape.
Gerdiesmom/TripAdvisor
5500 acres of land, and 2500 acres of sparkling water, to be exact.
Uniquely, these picturesque waterfront views come by way of three distinct lakes:
erin_pass/Flickr
Chatcolet Lake.
Robert Ashworth/Flickr
Hidden Lake.
Mark H./TripAdvisor
And Benewah Lake.
Mark H./Trip Advisor

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The "Shadowy" St. Joe River runs between two of the lakes in a truly magnificent watery scene found nowhere else in the world.
David Merwin/Flickr
A historic trestle runs over Benewah, reminding visitors that they're still in Idaho.
OutdoorBoomer/TripAdvisor
And over 70 niles of trails and boardwalks meander throughout the lush meadows, towering forests, and around the lakes.
John Matthews/Flickr
D. Taylor in Idaho/Flickr
The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes also runs directly through the park, or you can opt for exploring your own nature trail.
But if there's one thing you don't want to miss while you're here, it's the glorious sunsets!
Heyburn State Park ID/Facebook
Although... if you think the vibrant sunsets are mesmerizing, catching a Northern Lights show over the water is a bucket list sight if there ever was one.
Heyburn State Park ID/Facebook
Heyburn State Park ID/Facebook
How about that Milky Way, huh?

Have you ever been to Heyburn State Park? This oldie-but-goody haven makes quite the getaway! We’d love to see your photos!

For a closer look at the incredible “River Between Lakes,” check out our article about this magnificent and underrated river.

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