Button Hook Bay in the fall
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Farragut State Park

4.6
·2k reviews·Athol, United States

Vast Idaho state park on Lake Pend Oreille, offering history, hiking, disc golf, and water adventures.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdMedium
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Button Hook Bay in the fall

Farragut State Park

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Vast Idaho state park on Lake Pend Oreille, offering history, hiking, disc golf, and water adventures.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"Absolutely gorgeous park with stunning lake views and plenty of activities for everyone!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Book campsites early

Campsites, especially in popular areas like Gilmore Campground, fill up fast. Book ahead!

Pack for all activities

Bring gear for hiking, swimming, disc golf, and exploring the historical museum .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake Pend Oreille Waterfront

Lake Pend Oreille Waterfront

Southern tip of Lake Pend Oreille

Stunning lake views perfect for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating. Beaver Bay is a popular spot .

Reddit
Disc Golf Paradise

Disc Golf Paradise

Multiple courses throughout the park

Challenge yourself on 5 eighteen-hole disc golf courses catering to all skill levels .

TikTokInstagram+1
The Brig Museum

The Brig Museum

Former Farragut Naval Training Station site

Explore the rich history of this former U.S. Navy training base .

InstagramReddit+1
Adventure Park

Adventure Park

Adventure Park area

Soar through the trees on zip lines and tackle obstacle courses .

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Vastness

Farragut State Park is HUGE! Plan your visit by mapping out which areas you want to explore, whether it's the lakefront, disc golf courses, or historical sites. Consider booking campsites well in advance, especially during peak season, as they fill up quickly.Reddit

History & Adventure Await

Discover the park's past as a former naval training base Instagram+1 and then dive into modern adventures like disc golf TikTokInstagram+1 or the aerial adventure park.Instagram Check the park's schedule for ranger talks to enrich your historical understanding.Instagram

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer people, more space
Crowd
Low
When
Late winter
Why
Quiet beauty, fewer visitors
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Engagement session in Idaho at Farragut state park 🩷 #art #creative #fyp #engaged @Sam
@si_babbay
847 likes • 115.1K views

Book campsites early

Campsites, especially in popular areas like Gilmore Campground, fill up fast. Book ahead! InstagramReddit

Pack for all activities

Bring gear for hiking, swimming, disc golf, and exploring the historical museum.TikTokInstagram+1

✨10 Acres in North Idaho✨ Ever dream of wide‑open space, a horse‑ready property, and your own massive shop? 🐎 Welcome to Shamrock Ranch in Athol — minutes from Farragut State Park & Lake Pend Oreille! With 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, fenced pasture, a chicken coop, and a 30x50 shop, this place is the perfect mix of comfort + country living. Who’s ready to make this theirs? 👀 Listed by Courtney Lata #RE...
@court_lata
706 likes • 51.5K views
Farragut State Park, nestled on the southern tip of Lake Pend Oreille in northern Idaho, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. The Gilmore Campground within the park offers a serene setting amidst towering pines and lush forests, making it an ideal spot for those seeking both relaxation and exploration. Gilmore Campground provides well-kept sites for tents and RVs, equipped...
campgroundviews
12 likes • 557 views

Leash your pets

Park hosts are strict about leash laws. Keep your furry friends secured.Reddit

Check for ranger talks

Enhance your visit by learning about the park's WWII history from park rangers.Instagram

📍Farragut State Park, Idaho 🚴‍♂️ 🚤 🏕️ 🎣 🥾 🐎 🏊‍♀️ & so much more! Disc Golf— 5 18-hole courses for all skill levels Adventure Park— Ariel adventure course with zip lines, nets, Tarzan swing, and other obstacle course styled courses. “The Museum at the Brig” History Museum— Former site of Farragut Navel Training Station, training base of U.S. Navy (WWII) Prices very depending on residency, le...
thebolterbus
42 likes • 320 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book campsites early

Campsites, especially in popular areas like Gilmore Campground, fill up fast. Book ahead! InstagramReddit

Pack for all activities

Bring gear for hiking, swimming, disc golf, and exploring the historical museum.TikTokInstagram+1

Leash your pets

Park hosts are strict about leash laws. Keep your furry friends secured.Reddit

Check for ranger talks

Enhance your visit by learning about the park's WWII history from park rangers.Instagram

No hammocks on trees

While beautiful, hammocks are not permitted on trees in the camping areas.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Farragut State Park for its immense size, stunning lakefront access, and diverse recreational opportunities, from extensive hiking trails to multiple disc golf courses. The park's historical significance as a former naval base also adds a unique dimension to the experience. While generally well-maintained and family-friendly, some campers noted strictness from camp hosts regarding pet policies.

"Great State Park with several campgrounds within. Each has clean bathrooms and hot showers. More than 40+ miles of trails for fun hiking and mountain biking. The lake is beautiful for kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing and boating. Love it."

Tami Warren

"We visited the state park on a Thursday. We arrive around noon so we couldn’t check-in to our campsite. We decided to drive around and see what it had to offer. We were completely surprised at how big the park is. Once 2 o’clock came we headed back to the visitor center and checked in. Our campsite was spacious. Dry camping only, in our loop. There was a bathhouse and toilets centrally located."

Nelida Safrit

"This state park is absolutely gorgeous! The lake is stunning, and the swimming was awesome—such a perfect spot to cool off and enjoy the outdoors. The campgrounds are spacious, clean, and really well-maintained, which made the whole experience even better.

Everything about the park feels cared for and inviting. I would highly recommend visiting, and I’ll definitely be coming back!"

Rachel Bond

What People Like

Vast size and beauty
Lake access and water sports
Multiple disc golf courses

What People Dislike

Strict pet leash rules

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Farragut State Park is located in Athol, Idaho. It's accessible via SH-54, offering a scenic drive.Instagram It's about an hour from Spokane, Washington.Instagram Driving is the most common way to reach the park.

Yes, it's approximately an hour's drive from Spokane, Washington, and closer to areas like Hayden and Athol in Idaho.Instagram

The park is quite large, so driving between different areas like campgrounds, day-use sites, and the museum is recommended. Biking is also a great option on the extensive trail system.Instagram

Public transportation options directly to Farragut State Park are limited. It's best to plan for a personal vehicle or rental car.

Roads leading to and within the park are generally well-maintained. SH-54 is a scenic route.Instagram Conditions can vary by season, with potential for snow in winter.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Farragut State Park typically has a day-use fee for visitors. Camping fees are separate and vary by site type and season. It's advisable to check the official Idaho Parks and Recreation website for current fees.

The park is generally open year-round, but specific facilities like campgrounds, visitor centers, and the Adventure Park may have seasonal hours. Always check the official park website for the most up-to-date information.

Campsites can be booked online through the Idaho Parks and Recreation reservation system. Popular campgrounds like Gilmore fill up quickly, so booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for summer and holiday weekends.InstagramReddit

Yes, Farragut State Park offers various camping options, including dry camping (no hookups) in some loops,Reddit as well as RV sites and potentially cabins. Check the reservation system for availability.

Absolutely! Farragut State Park has day-use areas like Beaver Bay Reddit with picnic facilities, swimming access, and trailheads, making it perfect for a day trip.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

With over 40 miles of trails, options range from easy lakeside strolls to more challenging forest paths. Many trails are suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.InstagramReddit

Lake Pend Oreille offers excellent opportunities for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and boating.Reddit Rentals may be available at Beaver Bay.Reddit

Farragut is a disc golf hotspot with 5 distinct 18-hole courses.TikTokInstagram+1 There are courses for beginners and experienced players alike.

Families can enjoy swimming at Beaver Bay,Reddit exploring the Brig Museum,Reddit playing disc golf,TikTokInstagram+1 and hiking. The Adventure Park offers thrills for older kids and adults.Instagram

Cell service can be spotty within the park due to its size and terrain. Wi-Fi is generally not available at campsites, so plan for limited connectivity.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Dining options within the park are limited. Wet Willie's at Beaver Bay offers food for purchase,Reddit but it's best to bring your own food and drinks for picnics or prepare meals at your campsite.

Nearby towns like Athol and Hayden offer various dining options, from casual eateries to local restaurants. Spokane also has a wide array of choices.

Campfires are typically allowed in designated fire rings at campsites, but always check for current fire restrictions or burn bans issued by the park or local authorities.

Yes, you can find grocery stores in the nearby towns of Athol and Hayden for stocking up on supplies before heading into the park.

Easy-to-prepare meals like sandwiches, pasta, grilled items, and pre-made salads are great for camping. Don't forget snacks and plenty of water!

📸 📸 Photography

The lakefront offers stunning shots, especially during sunrise and sunset.Instagram+1 The historical buildings at The Brig Museum and the dense forests also provide great photographic opportunities.Instagram+1

Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas or at specific times. It's essential to check the park's regulations regarding drone operation to ensure compliance.

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful light for landscape and nature photography.Instagram

Capturing the contrast between the park's natural beauty and its historical naval training station past can lead to unique shots.Instagram+1 Drone shots can offer a unique perspective of the park's vastness.Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and forest views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Farragut State Park is a fantastic destination for families. Kids will love splashing in the lake at Beaver Bay Reddit and exploring the historical exhibits at The Brig Museum.InstagramReddit The park's numerous trails offer opportunities for family hikes, and the Adventure Park provides exciting challenges for older children.Instagram

Disc golf is another fun activity that families can enjoy together.TikTokInstagram+1 Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and ensure pets are leashed.Reddit The spacious campgrounds also make it an ideal spot for a family camping trip.Reddit

🏞️ Nature Lovers & Hikers

With over 40 miles of trails winding through forests and along the lake, Farragut State Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts.InstagramReddit Explore diverse ecosystems, keep an eye out for local wildlife, and enjoy the stunning vistas of Lake Pend Oreille.Instagram The park's vastness means you can find both popular routes and more secluded paths for a peaceful immersion in nature.Instagram

🎣 Anglers & Boaters

Lake Pend Oreille is a prime spot for fishing and boating. Anglers can cast their lines for various species, while boaters can explore the expansive waters. The park offers easy access to the lake for launching boats and enjoying a day out on the water.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History: The Naval Training Station

Farragut State Park holds a significant place in American history as the former site of the Farragut Naval Training Station during World War II. At its peak, it was the second-largest naval training base in the United States, churning out hundreds of thousands of sailors.Instagram+2 The park preserves remnants of this era, including buildings and historical markers that offer a tangible connection to the past.

Visitors can explore 'The Brig Museum' to delve deeper into the station's operations and the lives of the servicemen who trained there.InstagramReddit Park Ranger talks also provide fascinating insights into this period, making it a compelling destination for history buffs.Instagram Understanding this background adds a profound layer to the natural beauty of the park.

While much of the base has been reclaimed by nature, the historical significance is palpable. It's a reminder of the park's transformation from a vital military hub to a beloved recreational area for all to enjoy.Instagram

Outdoor Adventures Galore

Farragut State Park is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, offering a diverse range of activities. The park boasts over 40 miles of trails, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.InstagramReddit Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, there's a path for everyone.

Water lovers will be drawn to the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, one of Idaho's largest and most beautiful lakes.Instagram Enjoy swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and boating. Beaver Bay is a popular day-use area with amenities and rentals.Reddit For a unique challenge, the park features five 18-hole disc golf courses,TikTokInstagram+1 attracting players of all skill levels. Thrill-seekers can test their mettle at the Adventure Park, complete with zip lines and obstacle courses.Instagram

From the serene beauty of the lake to the adrenaline rush of the adventure park, Farragut State Park provides endless opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.Instagram+1

Camping and Accommodations

Farragut State Park offers a variety of camping options to suit different preferences. The park features several campgrounds, including the popular Gilmore Campground, known for its serene setting amidst towering pines.Instagram Campsites range from dry camping loops Reddit to sites with more amenities, catering to tents, RVs, and trailers.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season, as campsites can fill up quickly.Reddit While hammocks are not permitted on trees in camping areas,Reddit the park provides ample space for tents and RVs. The campgrounds are generally well-maintained with clean bathrooms and hot showers available.Reddit

For those who prefer not to tent camp, the park may offer cabin rentals, providing a more comfortable stay while still immersing you in the natural surroundings.Instagram Planning your accommodation in advance is key to securing your spot in this sought-after destination.

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