Boise National Forest

Boise National Forest is comprised of over 2.2 million acres of land in the state of Idaho. At its highest elevation in the park, Steel Mountain reaches 9,730 feet above sea level. There are 9,600 miles of streams and rivers, and over 15,000 acres of lakes and reservoirs. With so much space and natural beauty, Boise National Forest hosts a wide assortment of outdoor recreation activity options.

Boise National Forest is also rich in history; evidence has proved that humans have inhabited the area as long as 10,000 years ago. The area is a historical home of the Shoshone people before European settlers came to the region. Idaho was also a site of major gold rush activity in the early-to-mid-nineteenth century. Gold, silver, antimony, and tungsten were mined until the middle of the twentieth century.

Recreation inside Boise National Forest includes more than 70 campgrounds, boating, hiking, horseback riding, biking, and off-roading. Most of the area inside Boise National Forest is open to camping outside developed campgrounds. Bicycles are permitted on most of the trails throughout the park as well. Over 1,200 miles of trails are open to motorized recreational vehicles. The waterways are open to rafting and kayaking; the class of difficulty varies by area, ranging from easy to challenging. During winter, the forest is open to snowmobiles, snowshoeing, and downhill and cross-country skiing.

Before you plan your visit to Boise National Forest, you should check on the specific campground or area you intend to visit. Many areas are subject to seasonal hours or closures. Reservations can be made in advance for campgrounds and cabins by visiting recreation.gov or by calling a number listed on the Boise National Park website.

Dogs are permitted in campgrounds and trails, but must be on a leash or under physical control at all times. If you follow common courtesy and keep your dog under control and clean up after yourself and your pet, you can enjoy all the beauty and fun that Boise National Forest has to offer.