Dworshak State Park reservoir

Dworshak State Park, a 700-acre playground in the middle of Idaho

Along the western side of Dworshak Reservoir sits Dworshak State Park. Our visit to this park was fraught with challenges thanks to a wildfire (keep reading to learn more about that experience). Since we did not visit the park under the best of circumstances, I asked someone who knows the park inside and out to …

Round Lake State Park

Round Lake State Park: geocaching, picnicking and hiking

Round Lake State Park is small but mighty. It is a hidden gem in the Idaho panhandle and a great stop if you are exploring this area. We found it an excellent location to try out geocaching for the first time (without an experienced cacher). State Park Overview “As the surrounding area is starting to …

Mary McCroskey State Park view

Mary McCroskey State Park: big on views and short on crowds

If you have got good clearance on your car, the views in Mary McCroskey State Park are well worth a visit. State Park Overview Each state park is unique. But some are more unique than others. Mary McCroskey State Park is one of the more unique parks in the Idaho parks system. You will not …

Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes State Park: a spectacular trail through Northern Idaho

Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes State Park provides 73 miles of scenic views and a smooth ride. It is touted as one of the most spectacular trails in the western United States and I have to say, I agree. State Park Overview For the most part, Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes State Park is an …

Canoe on Winchester Lake

The best thing about Winchester Lake State Park in Idaho: yurt + canoe

Winchester Lake State Park is a hidden gem in the middle of Idaho. Peaceful, beautiful, and the perfect place to stay for a night. State Park Overview Winchester Lake State Park is not large. But what it lacks in size it makes up for in peace and serenity. This little park surprised us in the …

Coeur d’Alene Parkway State Park: a good place to enjoy the lake and avoid the crowds

If you visit Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, in the summertime and are looking for a place away from the crowds, head to Coeur d’Alene Parkway State Park. You will find a lakeside trail with lovely views and few people. State Park Overview About 15 minutes south of Coeur d’Alene (CDA) is a paved trail known as …

pioneer wagon

Three Island Crossing State Park: history, Oregon Trail, views

Three defining characteristics of southern Idaho are sagebrush, the Snake River and the Oregon Trail. These things combine near Glenns Ferry, Idaho, at Three Island Crossing State Park. Imagine you were a pioneer headed to Oregon. You’ve made it past the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains and are on the home stretch. One of …

Lake Walcott State Park

Lake Walcott State Park: fishing, frisbee golf, picnicking

I’ve talked to several people about Lake Walcott State Park and the response was the same. “I’ve seen the sign on the freeway, but have never been there.” Now that we have ventured off the freeway to visit, I would summarize it as a nice enough spot, but not necessarily worth the side trip. Lake …

Horseback riding at Harriman State Park in Idaho

Harriman State Park of Idaho: ranching history and horseback riding

If you enjoy ranching history, beautiful views and/or recreational activities, Harriman State Park in Idaho will not disappoint. State Park Overview Harriman State Park can be credited with helping to launch Idaho’s official state park system. There is a lot of history at this park. In fact, it is on the list of National Historic …