Barber Park

Year-round outdoor fun abounds at Barber Park, and with its state-of-the-art Event Center, it can host weddings or special occasions. 

The rentable Event Center was designed with nature in mind, reflecting its surroundings with stone, wood, and contoured landscaping. It resides along the Boise River, allowing guests to enjoy a beautiful outdoor reception or tuck rest beside the fireplace on a crisp October evening.

Aside from this facility is the Barber Park itself. The park's name is intimately tied to the Barber Lumber Company, pivotal in the region's development. Between 1904 and 1906, the company established a dam, mill, power plant, and town designed to process timber harvested north of Boise along Grimes and Mores Creek.

The Barber Dam, constructed in 1906, created the Barber Pool, a vital pond for transporting logs to the mill. This area became so significant that in 1913, the Barber Lumber Company merged with the Payette Lumber Company, leading to the construction of a narrow-gauge railroad between Barber and Centerville, further embedding the site in the fabric of Idaho's industrial history​​​​.

A visit to Barber Park is perfect for those seeking leisurely strolls on well-maintained paths. And with its playground, basketball courts, and picnic tables, it's idyllic for family getaways or picnics with friends. Toss in the river rafts and tubes for floats, and it's no wonder Barber Park attracts outdoor and nature lovers. 

Fun Facts & Cool Features

This park, once a cherished picnic spot in the 1930s, has evolved into a vibrant public space since its development in the 1950s. Its transformation from a simple recreational area to a globally recognized park reflects its increasing importance in the community and its appeal to visitors worldwide.

The park is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, boasting an impressive biodiversity. It is home to over 121 species of birds, ranging from the majestic bald eagle to the delicate Black-chinned hummingbird. 

Mammals like mule and whitetail deer, beaver, raccoon, mink, and various reptiles enrich the park's ecosystem. This abundance of wildlife, nestled in the park's vast cottonwood forest, offers an unparalleled opportunity for nature observation and photography.

In line with modern sustainability practices, the park has embraced eco-friendly infrastructure. The Ada County Parks & Waterways Administration Office at the park features a green roof and solar panels, demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship through sustainable development and energy efficiency.

Furthermore, recent upgrades to the park, including replacing an old asphalt pathway with a more durable material and adding new ADA-accessible bridges, highlight its dedication to accessibility and continuous improvement. 

Barber Park will add value to any Garden Valley getaway, whether floating down the river, enjoying a picnic, or strolling the trails. 

Getting There

Here's how you can get to Barber Park from Boise City:

• Head southeast on Fairview Ave/W Main St toward N 6th St, and continue on Fairview Ave.
• Turn right onto S Broadway Ave, passing Chick-fil-A.
• Use the left 2 lanes to turn left onto E Park Blvd, then 0.3 miles later, use the right 3 lanes to turn slightly right onto E Park Blvd/W Parkcenter Blvd.
• Slight right toward E Warm Springs Ave, then a slight right onto E Warm Springs Ave.
• Turn right onto S Millbrook Way, then after 0.2 miles, turn right onto S Eckert Rd.
• Continue on Barber Park, then turn right onto Barber Park/Boise Greenbelt Trail.
• Follow Barber Park for 0.2 miles, then turn right. 
• Address: 4049 S Eckert Rd, Boise, ID 83716

Cost

Visiting is free, but there are some other costs to consider when visiting:

Parking Fees: 

• $7 per day. 

Tube and Raft Rentals: 

• The park has an agreement with Epley's Boise River Rentals for tube, kayak, and raft rentals. 
• Prices vary based on the type of equipment. 
• "Deluxe Tubes" rent out for $12 for three hours.

Shuttle Service: 

• Epley's also offers a bus shuttle service priced at $3 per person. It takes you back from the take-out point at Ann Morrison Park to Barber Park. 

Prices are subject to change. Please check their website for updates.