Close to modern conveniences and well-maintained, Farragut State Park
is one of Northern Idaho’s best and most diverse recreation and
vacation areas. But, tucked away in the heavily forested northern corner
of Lake Pend Oreille, this park is also more than a little spooky come
nightfall, and it’s all because of the location’s unique history.
Why? Because between 1942 and 1946, along with over 293,000 young
sailors who were trained and housed here, Farragut was also a
fortress-like German POW site.
Nobody is quite certain who (or what) is haunting the park and its
campsites. The restless souls of former sailors? Vindictive prisoners?
Something else? The only thing for certain is that Farragut’s unique
history is clearly a factor… and that nightfall is no time to go
exploring the woods. But most people who stay at Farragut overnight and
head to Silverwood in the morning have no idea that they’re sleeping in
an active paranormal camp site… until something strange occurs. Check
out the stories.
During the day, Farragut State Park is a recreation haven.
With a flyer's park, unique kids'
activities, plenty of beach and water access, and scenic views, campers
have no idea that they might be sharing their tent pad with restless
spirits.
But when darkness falls, strange things begin to happen...
Apparitions of a man wearing a uniform have been sighted along the shore.
But most of the stories originate in the Brig.
This former jail for misbehaving
recruits is now a small museum, with a few of the cells preserved for
visitors to explore. Come nightfall, the clinking of cells and distant
yells can be heard echoing within the compound.
Mysterious orbs have been reported,
as well as tales of faces peering out between bars. One local legend
tells of a German prisoner who was captured and killed in the lower
level... his body left to decompose in unrest to this very day.
In the museum area, one particular bust of a sailor stands front and center, his face chiseled in the memory of former recruits.
Unlucky visitors will see these stone faces move and shift, as though trying to peel themselves off the bust.
The trails are particularly active at night as well.
Of the hundreds of campsites
scattered throughout the park, each have their own fair share of stories
that include flickering lights, strange sounds, and other spooky
activities.
But the trails, especially those leading to the water, are known to be paranormal hotspots.
Only venture out if you dare.
There are plenty of places to camp in the area, but this might be the
absolute scariest place to pitch a tent in Idaho. What do YOU think is
the truth behind these eerie events?
If you like spooky legends in Idaho, make this haunted road trip one of your summer must-dos.
Located along the rim of the Snake River Canyon, the city of Twin
Falls is known for its abundance of natural beauty. It’s here that
you’ll find plummeting canyon views, waterfalls, and the mighty waters
of the Snake River. It makes for an excellent place to visit, and you
can see more of it in a day when you opt for a bike tour! Pertt’s Bike
Rental is a small business that makes it easier than ever to explore
this incredible city. Take a look:
Twin Falls is often referred to
as "the gateway to the Snake River Canyon" - can you take a gander why?
This city in southern Idaho is full of adventure and everybody should
take full advantage of it.
In fact, there's a new small
business that's dedicated to making it easier than ever to explore Twin
Falls' endless wonders. Pertt's Bike Rental is a mobile bike rental
service that has you covered when it comes to roaming around Twin Falls.
This handy service brings the
bikes to you at popular riding destinations. In fact, they'll drop off
and pick up your bike at your convenience. It's one thing to explore the
city on foot, but you'll be able to cover a lot more ground on one of
these!
Pertt's offers 2, 4, and 8-hour
rentals along with multi-day rentals. They proudly carry a variety of
bikes including hard tails and comfort bikes. Whatever wheels you
prefer, they'll work with you to make your adventure as comfortable as
possible.
Considering the fact that bikes
are pretty expensive to acquire and maintain, a bike rental service is
perfect when you need a set of wheels for the day. After receiving your
bike rental, you can hit the local trails and peruse whichever type of
adventure you desire.
Bike to some of Twin Falls' most
incredible icons, like Shoshone Falls or the Perrine Bridge. Pertt's
has a variety of bike trails that they recommend, including the Canyon
Rim Trail, Auger Falls Trail Head, and the Indian Springs Trail.
Bikes are also a great way to
get around town. Twin Falls downtown has a ton to offer including
breweries, restaurants, and local shops. Check out Pertt's Bike Rental and start planning your next adventure in Twin Falls!
Does waking up to gorgeous vineyard views sound like your type of
getaway? If so, you’ll want to take a look at this unique glamping
destination in Idaho. Vino Camp is a place where you can fall asleep in a
tent on a vineyard! Best of all, campers are mere steps away from some
of the Gem State’s finest wines. If this all sounds like a dream come
true, then read on to learn all the details.
Wine makes everything better,
even camping! The Vino Camp at Sawtooth Winery is a glamping opportunity
unlike any other in Idaho, and you'll want to try it for yourself.
The experience is made possible
by Eco-Camps, the leading provider of off-the-grid eco-friendly
accommodations. Eco-Camps is dedicated to combining "glamorous camping
under canvas with the comforts and conveniences of a hotel."
The Eco-Camps experience at
Sawtooth Winery is a true bucket list item. Here you can enjoy the
serene environment of mature orchards and vineyards while you camp!
Guests also enjoy breathtaking views of the Snake River Valley and
Owyhee Mountains.
There are several tents to
choose from, each of which is packed with the luxurious amenities of a
hotel stay. Guests enjoy access to a private en-suite bathroom, in-room
showers, private patios, comfy Queen beds, and much more.
You'll definitely be cozy as can
be in these amenity-packed canvas tents. With a queen bed and up to
three twins in every tent, this experience can accommodate couples,
families, and friend groups.
The highlight of your stay, of
course, is the proximity to Idaho's award-winning wineries. During your
time at Vino Camp, you can enjoy a wine pairing event or an afternoon
exploring the Sunnyslope wine trail, which consists of over 15 different
wineries!
The Vino Camp at Sawtooth Winery is currently accepting reservations. Check out their website or Airbnb listing to see available dates and to learn more about this fantastic glamping opportunity in a beautiful vineyard!
What do you look for in a campground? If it’s peace, quiet, and some
of Idaho’s most beautiful views, look no further than the spot we have
featured below. Situated right along the banks of Henrys Fork of the
Snake River, you’ll enjoy some tranquil views of the river’s calm
current right from your campsite. It’s a real hidden gem of Island Park!
Check it out and start planning your next camping trip.
A tributary of the Snake River,
Henrys Fork stretches for 127 miles in a region of southeastern Idaho.
Known for its idyllic scenery and its recreational opportunities, it
makes for a pretty great camping spot!
If you're looking for a
campground with easy access to Henrys Fork, look no further than Upper
Coffee Pot Campground. Located right alongside a section of Henrys Fork,
you'll be hard-pressed to find a campsite where you can't view the
water.
The campground contains 13 single units and one double unit. It's open from late May until September and sites can be reserved online or by phone. Single Family Campsites start at $15 a day.
The campground is nice and
shady, as it's located underneath the canopy of a mixed growth lodgepole
pine forest. And if you ever get too hot in the summer, the river's
cool waters are just steps away!
In fact, this stretch of Henrys
Fork is considered especially floatable. Bring an inner tube, canoe,
kayak, or raft for an easygoing float down the river.
Henrys Fork is also a
world-class fly fishing destination, mainly for rainbow and brook trout.
You're almost guaranteed to catch something here, but if you don't, the
experience is worth it just for the peaceful setting!
Looking to take advantage of
Henrys Fork and everything this tranquil tributary has to offer? A visit
to this lovely campground in Island Park is just what you need.
May through September is prime camping season for those who enjoy
immersing themselves in Idaho’s great outdoors. But camping means
different things to different people – for some, a comfy RV is where
it’s at. For others, a primitive tent and fire ring in the trees are all
that’s needed, so long as a fishing spot is nearby. Either way, your
options are endless when it comes to the best campgrounds in Idaho.
Idaho’s expansive wilderness is home to literally thousands of
campgrounds, both private and public, and with every luxury (or lack
thereof) imaginable. Rather than choosing the popular campgrounds in
Idaho, we’ve chosen just a few camping locations across the state that
you might not have heard of, or if you have, are worth a second look on
your next weekend adventure.
1. Wendover Campground, Lolo
Situated near the Lochsa River and
designed around a small, babbling stream, Wendover is an ideal locale
for some serenity amongst the mature trees and mossy woods of the Nez
Perce-Clearwater National Forest, just on the border of Lolo, Montana.
2. City of Rocks, Malta
Nestled in the crooks and valleys
of one of Southern Idaho's most unique landscapes, you'll find the
isolation and easy hiking access you need to make your camping vacation
one to remember. Shade levels vary here across the 64 campsites, but you
can't beat the vista views!
3. Rainbow Point, Cascade
Located near Donnelly and close to
Lake Cascade, Rainbow Point is a single-family site that offers scenic
views, easy boating access, and plentiful trees and wildflowers.
Excellent roads and plentiful wildlife make this a perfect weekend
retreat. When you visit, be sure to take a stroll down on the rail-trail, a scenic 5-mile out-and-back trail that will take you around the lake.
4. Phi Kappa Campground, Mackay
The Big Lost River is often
overlooked as a recreation and camping spot, but don't miss out!
Stunning views of the Devil's Bedstead and a soaring elevation mean cool
nights and relative isolation amongst the mature trees. There are also a
few RV spots available as well.
5. Snow Peak, Avery
The Snow Peak Wildlife Management
Area is lightly used in the summer, which is perfect for campers looking
to get away from it all. Located in the Panhandle in the St. Joe
National Forest, you'll find abundant hiking opportunities and plenty of
cool shade along the St. Joe River.
6. Maiden Rock, Cocolalla
Located on the banks of Lake Pend
Oreille, it's hard to find a campsite here that doesn't offer pristine
views of the water. Lush, grassy trails lead straight down to the water,
but be warned: this campground is only accessible by boat! But before
you hop on that boat, be sure to check out the Maiden Rock Trail, a nearby trail with views that will leave you speechless!
7. Beauty Creek, Coeur d'Alene
You'll find convenient trail access, beautiful creekside views, and a short commute to Lake Coeur d'Alene at this lovely forest-edged meadow campground.
8. Saddleback Lakes, Stanley
Located in the heart of the Sawtooths, this popular destination offers incredible hiking
and is relatively close to the renowned fishing of Redfish Lake. Waking
up to scenic mountain views makes the extra effort to get here worth
it, however.
9. Shafer Butte, Boise
While Idaho's urban center might
not seem like a camping destination, the Boise metro area offers a
number of incredible campgrounds to choose from. Shafer Butte sits atop
the Boise Ridge near Bogus Basin and offers close city access and scenic
views within the Boise National Forest.
10. Boulder White Clouds, Challis
Located east of the Sawtooth
Wilderness, the Boulder-White Clouds are a stunning monument in Central
Idaho. Here, you can hike to Fourth of July Lake, trek the Boulder Loop,
or simply kick back and enjoy the spectacular view.
11. Cayuse Creek, Clearwater
Kelly and Cayuse Creeks are an angler's dream, but they also offer fantastic camping. Swimming is a must here.
12. Pine Creek, Victor
Lightly used and set just below the
Palisades Reservoir, Pine Creek doesn't offer the mature forests of
Idaho's Northern region and is not recommended for RVs, but you'll find a
quiet place to get away from it all, well-maintained grounds, and
beautiful Teton panoramas.
What are the most unique places to spend the night in Idaho?
From jagged peaked mountains and rolling green hillsides
to fields of open farmland vistas, Idaho’s range of stunning terrain
affords a wealth of unique overnight destinations. Spending the night
high in the treetops is an unforgettable experience and the Gem State is
home to a number of delightful treehouse stays. Escape to the lush
canopies of Lake Pend Oreille for a truly one-of-a-kind getaway
surrounded by placid scenery and access to plenty of fun filled water
activities. Here, visitors can reconnect with nature in their very own
three-story treehouse complete with a private dock and all the essential
amenities for a relaxing vacation.
How many state parks are in Idaho?
Idaho is home to 27 gorgeous state parks offering a
variety of outdoor recreational activities to meet the needs of all
nature lovers. In the summertime, Bear Lake State Park is a popular
location nestled in the southeastern corner of Idaho near the Cache
mountain range. One of the main attractions of Bear Lake is the stunning
deep turquoise water, often referred to as the Caribbean of the
Rockies. For larger groups, this park is an ideal vacation spot with
campsites available to service up to 50 guests. Water lovers will find
endless activities to keep them busy with an abundance of fishing and
swimming areas easily accessible all across the park.
Can I camp right on the water in Idaho?
With our sweeping natural landscapes, it’s obvious why
camping is a beloved activity for Idaho residents, and finding the
perfect waterfront spot makes sleeping under the stars even more
relaxing. For the more rugged campers, the primitive sites at Big
Springs Campground in Island Park are a must-visit. Located at the
Henry’s Fork headwaters, Big Springs boasts world-class fly fishing
opportunities and a range of exciting water sports activities. Redfish
Lake in Stanley features a number of popular waterfront campgrounds, all
offering impressive amenities and stunning scenic views. Tucked away
against a breathtaking backdrop of the Selkirk Mountains, Priest Lake
has earned its moniker “the Crown Jewel of Idaho.” In addition to
excellent lakeside camping opportunities, Priest Lake State Park has
everything you’ll need for a family-friendly camping adventure.
We are incredibly lucky to have 30 state parks in Idaho, all of which
are bursting with natural beauty and recreation opportunities for
couples, families, and solo adventurers. Even better, whether you love
mountain isolation, lush, green prairies, or crystal-clear lakes,
chances are you’re never too far from one of these expansive and
pristine landscapes. Most are within a half hour’s drive from the Gem
State’s major cities, which means now that warmer weather is here, you
have no excuse not to explore them! Here are nine of the most
distinctive and special state parks in Idaho.
1. Old Mission State Park, Coeur d'Alene
For a relaxing day out, ride your
bicycle up the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes from Harrison to have lunch
at this scenic and fascinating historical park. The Cataldo Mission
church building (Mission of the Sacred Heart) is a must-see in itself as
the oldest structure in Idaho, dating back to the 1850s. The 18-acre
park is also home to a restored Parish house, a historic cemetery, and
an interpretive center.
2. Harriman State Park, Island Park
Experience Yellowstone’s stunning
ecology from within the caldera of Henry’s Fork, a special geologic rim
feature that sits nestled inside the Island Park caldera. Featuring epic
fly-fishing and horseback trail opportunities, this 11,000-acre Idaho
gem is also home to an abundance of wildlife, like immense cranes,
trumpeter swans, and even moose.
3. Ponderosa State Park, McCall
Aptly named for its abundance of
towering Ponderosa Pine trees, this 1,000-acre park is an all-seasons
Idaho family favorite, offering numerous Payette Lake overlooks,
camping, trail hiking, and wildlife opportunities. Osprey Point and
North Beach are particularly well-loved for their views.
4. McCroskey State Park, Tensed
This border ridge state park offers
spectacular views of the Palouse prairie and ever-changing farmland
that makes North-Central Idaho so special. One of Idaho’s more
“primitive” parks, a rugged but scenic trip down Skyline Drive and the
exploration of its 32 branching hiking trials are both a must.
5. Heyburn State Park, Plummer
As the oldest state park in the
Pacific Northwest, Heyburn makes a great weekend stop on the Trail of
the Coeur d’Alenes. With nearly 6,000 acres of land and over 2,000 of
waterways to explore, the three lakes in this park (Benewah, Chatcolet,
and Hidden) and expansive landscaping mean you’ll have unlimited
opportunities to enjoy the picturesque scenery. Camping here is
absolutely stellar as well.
6. Hells Gate State Park, Lewiston
The entrance to one of Idaho’s most
spectacular natural features and the deepest river gorge in North
America is also a shaded retreat for those looking for both adventure
and relaxation. The park sits directly on the Snake River and offers
plenty of water activities as well as dozens of hiking and biking
trails, playgrounds, camping, and an easy commute to the Nez Perce
National Historic Park.
7. Priest Lake State Park, Coolin
Boating, water sports,
berry-picking, hiking, beach-bumming, and camping are all possibilities
at this park on the banks of one of Idaho’s most treasured gems. Priest
Lake's location just half an hour from the Canadian border allows
visitors the unique opportunity to experience a truly special part of
Idaho.
8. Farragut State Park, Athol
Tucked away from the main roads and
once a WWII-era naval training station, today Northern Idaho’s
4,000-acre park provides unique recreation opportunities you won’t find
elsewhere. Visit the Naval Training Center Museum, take advantage of the
orienteering course and model airplane flyer’s field, enjoy numerous
views of Lake Pend Oreille, and, of course, lounge on the beach at
Beaver Bay.
9. Bear Lake State Park, St. Charles
Bear Lake itself is a natural
wonder, called the "Caribbean of the Rockies" for its unique
turquoise-blue color, which is due to the reflection of limestone
suspended in the lake. Open year-round, park visitors can camp, sail,
scuba dive, water-ski and cannonball from public beaches and lakeside
campgrounds. Here, you'll have easy access to the Cache National Forest
and the Minnitonka Cave as well.
Clearly, Idaho has a multitude of opportunities to get out and
explore. From natural water slides, grueling hiking trails, and scenic
vistas to every type of sport offering imaginable, these state parks are
just a few of Idaho’s most beautiful and well-loved – and that’s not
even including local city and national parks!
