About
There’s nothing quite as charming and relaxing as a visit to Henrys Lake State Park.
Henrys Lake is one of the highest mountain lakes in the region and perhaps one of the best places to visit if you enjoy fishing and really love lake fishing. It is quite different than any other fishing experience, and the area has been noted for having some of the most impressive catches. Ranging from brook, cutthroat, and hybrid trout.
You don’t have to love fishing to come to Henrys Lake, though.
I also enjoy coming for the biking trails (or hiking) as well as the wildflower blooms in the spring and early summer months. It’s quite mesmerizing when the clouds roll in over the mountains. Henrys Lake is truly stunning!
Whatever your outdoor fancy is, you will find it here. That includes biking, hiking, swimming, and even bird-watching. You can also bring your boat (or rent one at one of the outposts) and spend some time fishing.
Fun Facts About Henrys Lake State Park
Henrys Lake State Park is about 15 miles from Yellowstone itself. It is impressive – with the Continental Divide on three sides of it.
The lake itself has more than 5,000 acres and pristine natural water. Tourism here is sparse, which makes Henrys Lake a special place to visit.
The park has a lot of amenities to take advantage of, including an amphitheater, a boat ramp, and a fish cleaning station. You can obtain a fire ring and buy firewood here as well.
And for those who like to camp (I highly recommend getting reservations well in advance), there are options that include cabins, RV sites, and tent campsites. Some areas are even ADA-accessible, but there are only a handful of them.
Getting There
Henrys Lake State Park is located off S. Goose Bay Drive, which is accessible from I-20. It’s a quick drive from the Yellowstone Playhouse at Island Park. It is about 15 miles to the west of Yellowstone National Park and about 300 miles from Salt Lake City.
Cost
Reservations are needed. Please check their website for prices and fees.
Local Tips
- There is a dump station at the park, but it has been closed for some time due to problems with it – and the park service has said it will be closed throughout 2023.
- Get the $10 Idaho State Parks Passport to save money if you plan to visit even just twice a year.
- You can do some sailing on the water (or rent one of the paddle boats that are available).
- Find out if there are activities planned for the area – you can call the park directly to do that at 208-558-7532 – as that’s a great way to find tours, nature programs, and fun activities.
- There is Wi-Fi at the park, in a hotspot that is located near Adam’s Loop Bath House. However, I have found internet connectivity is really spotty throughout the area. Don’t count on having access.