Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation

09/15/2026

09/07/2026

To all those who have been workin’ like a dog—Happy Labor Day!

We hope you are able to squeeze in one last barbecue (and drop some food off your plate), one last camping trip, and any other summer activity you enjoy at your nearest state park. 🐕🌭

09/04/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — September 2026

Divide Trail 505 Open for Recreation Travel

BOISE, Idaho - In a collaboration between the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests (NPCNF) and the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation (IDPR), the segment of Divide Trail 505 between Trails 504 and 672 is reopened to motorized uses.

The IDPR Motorized Trail Program will be able to provide maintenance necessary to improve access to the trail
going forward.

NPCNF Supervision Jon Word rescinded a long-term Forest Order D5-11-981 prohibiting
motorized use of the segment effective today.

“We are excited to be providing this new recreational opportunity in partnership with Idaho
Department of Parks and Recreation on the Red River Ranger District, creating improved
access,” said Jon Word, Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests supervisor.

IDPR Director Susan Buxton said, “The partnership between IDPR and NPCNF results in the
restoration of a highly valuable looping opportunity for shared multiple use, long requested
by recreation stakeholders of IDPR’s Trail Program. As with our other shared projects being pursued under GNA agreement pursuant to the EXPLORE Act, we look forward to further collaboration with Supervisor Word toward improving recreational access to the remarkable landscapes of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests.”

The 5.6-mile trail segment reopened is in Red River Ranger District east of Elk City and
north of Red River Hot Springs. Lifting of the Closure Order restores a critical link for longdistance looping opportunities, from the Magruder Corridor to the Boundary National Recreational Trail.

With short road connections, recreationist will be able to enjoy a nearly all-trail experience from the Magruder Corridor to the Selway River, with road and trail connections well beyond each.

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09/01/2026

Welcome, September!

Not ready to let go of your summer adventures? Squeeze in one more before fall with 25% off all lodging and camping September 4-7.

Use codes “GoodbyeSummer” for camping, and “HelloFall” for lodging at getoutside.idaho.gov to enjoy this discount. 🍂

08/29/2026

🚁🌲Thanks to the hard work of IDPR Staff and countless volunteers, three major trails projects are now complete and ready for users to enjoy!

A combined 71 volunteers contributed a total of almost 1,000 hours of service operating heavy equipment, hiking into remote areas, using hand tools, restoring washed-out trail, and yes, even flying in materials!

Thanks to their hard work, the Winnemucca Trail Bridge Project, the Dairy Creek Trail Project, and the North Fork & Big Creek Bridge Project are complete.

East Region Trails Specialist Brian Dilenge shared, “All of these projects have been years in the making, and all had challenges, some large some small, but all challenges were met and overcome. Some challenges were as easy as weather and other challenges were significant, such as the loss of helicopter support. No matter what it was the volunteers were steadfast in their endeavors to succeed and see the projects through. I appreciate them all as this is not accomplished by an individual but as a team. Many hands make light work. Without the support of the partners, projects like these would not be possible.”

Want to learn how to volunteer? Visit parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/volunteering/

07/09/2026

Thank you to all the amazing Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation volunteers. Your dedication makes a lasting difference in protecting Idaho’s parks, trails, and historic places, and in creating great memories for our guests. As we celebrate 250 years of our country, we are grateful for all you do to preserve the beauty and spirit of Idaho.

07/04/2026

Happy Independence Day! 🇺🇸

We hope you have a safe, fun, and adventurous Fourth of July celebration!

We’d also like to remind visitors that fireworks and prohibited within Idaho State Parks 🧨

07/02/2026

Do you have plans for July 4th? Idaho residents, this one’s for you!

Enjoy FREE day-use access at all Idaho State Parks on July 4th and celebrate America’s 250th anniversary in the great outdoors 🌲✨

From lakes to mountains, it’s the perfect excuse to get outside and make memories. (Camping & reservations not included.)

07/01/2026

We are so grateful to all those who came out for the ribbon cutting for the brand new Petersen Yurt!

Built to replace the Whispering Pines Yurt lost in the 2016 Pioneer Fire, this yurt will bring a fresh, backcountry getaway to one of the area’s most scenic ridges. 🛖🏔️

07/01/2026

Looking for some last minute getaway plans to celebrate America 250?

Now through July 5th, enjoy 30% OFF camping and lodging at select Idaho State Parks!

🏕 Camping: Lake Cascade, Challis Hot Springs & Dworshak State Park
🏡 Lodging: Harriman State Park & Twin Peaks Ranch

Use code A250CAMPING for campsites or A250LODGING for lodging to save big.

Don’t miss your chance to unplug, explore, and make the most of summer ✨