Blackwell Island Recreation Area
A lakeside recreation area with a scenic boardwalk and a premier boat launch on Coeur d'Alene Lake.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Blackwell Island Recreation Area
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A lakeside recreation area with a scenic boardwalk and a premier boat launch on Coeur d'Alene Lake.
"Considered one of the best launches on CDA Lake, but management issues persist."
Boat Launch Etiquette
Prep lanes are for launch prep only. Be mindful of signage to avoid congestion and ensure smooth access for boaters. :boat:
Spider-Proofing
Bring bug spray or natural deterrents for the restrooms. Keep an eye out, especially in the evenings. :spider:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Boardwalk
Along the lakefront
A pleasant, albeit short, boardwalk offering lovely lake views and photo opportunities.
Boat Launch
Coeur d'Alene Lake
Considered one of the best launches on Coeur d'Alene Lake, ideal for water sports enthusiasts.
Picnic Areas
Designated picnic spots
Clean and well-maintained picnic areas, including a covered option for gatherings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking and Fees
Spider Alert!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Boat Launch Etiquette
Prep lanes are for launch prep only. Be mindful of signage to avoid congestion and ensure smooth access for boaters. :boat:
Spider-Proofing
Bring bug spray or natural deterrents for the restrooms. Keep an eye out, especially in the evenings. :spider:
Picnic Perks
Pack a lunch to make the most of the picnic areas and justify the entrance fee. :sandwich:
Photo Ops
The boardwalk offers pretty views, perfect for capturing scenic shots of the lake. :camera:
Tips
from all over the internet
Boat Launch Etiquette
Prep lanes are for launch prep only. Be mindful of signage to avoid congestion and ensure smooth access for boaters. :boat:
Spider-Proofing
Bring bug spray or natural deterrents for the restrooms. Keep an eye out, especially in the evenings. :spider:
Picnic Perks
Pack a lunch to make the most of the picnic areas and justify the entrance fee. :sandwich:
Photo Ops
The boardwalk offers pretty views, perfect for capturing scenic shots of the lake. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Blackwell Island Recreation Area offers a scenic boardwalk and a highly-rated boat launch, but visitors note issues with parking management and restroom cleanliness. The fees, particularly for non-boaters, are sometimes seen as high for the limited amenities. Despite these drawbacks, it remains a popular spot for boaters and those seeking a pleasant lakeside picnic. +1
"It was a nice little place. The walk on the boardwalk is not long at all, so the $6 fee seemed a bit much, unless you have a picnic and spend more time there. But it is a really pretty place and got some great pictures. The picnic table area looked clean and nice, they also had a covered picnic table area for get togethers. Didn't try the toilets. There's also a map of other areas around town where you can go hiking, etc."
Stefanie Wochnick
"Great boat launch but beware of spiders in bathroom and bathroom entrance. There are easy, natural, and inexpensive ways to keep spiders away. Regardless of whether you're afraid of spiders or not, its a matter of cleaning up. You don't just leave spiders and webs hanging about. If its evening, they're out for dinner and you'll walk right into them. 🕷🕸😳"
Missy Dunn
"DONT WASTE YOUR TIME HERE unless you are launching a boat. there's nothing here worth the parking fee if you don't have a boat."
Chris
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Blackwell Island Recreation Area is located in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. It's accessible by car and offers parking facilities. The area is situated along the lakefront, making it a scenic drive.
Information on public transportation directly to Blackwell Island Recreation Area is limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car.
Specific driving directions will depend on your starting point, but the area is typically found by heading towards the Coeur d'Alene Lakefront. Using a GPS or mapping app is advised.
Yes, the area is close to downtown Coeur d'Alene, offering access to shops, restaurants, and other lake activities.
Blackwell Island Recreation Area is situated on Coeur d'Alene Lake in North Idaho.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a $6 fee for general entry and a $12 fee for boat launching. Some visitors feel the general entry fee is high for the short boardwalk.
Tickets or fees are typically paid upon entry. It's advisable to check for any specific reservation requirements, especially during peak season.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or local listings for the most current hours of operation.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available. It's recommended to inquire directly with the park management if you believe you may qualify for any reduced rates.
Details on whether park passes are accepted are not readily available. It's advisable to confirm this with the park authorities.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Activities include walking the boardwalk, picnicking, and launching boats onto Coeur d'Alene Lake. It's a good spot for scenic photos.
Yes, restrooms are available, but visitors have noted issues with spiders and cleanliness.
The picnic areas are family-friendly. However, the spider issue in restrooms might be a concern for some families.
Some reviews mention holes in the boat launch ramp, which could be a concern for boaters.
While not explicitly mentioned as a primary activity, fishing from the lake is possible if you have a boat.
📸 📸 Photography
The boardwalk offers scenic views of the lake, making it ideal for capturing landscape shots. The surrounding natural beauty also provides good photo opportunities.
The lake setting can be beautiful during sunset, offering potential for picturesque shots. Consider the late afternoon for golden hour lighting.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for capturing the scenic views. If you plan on wildlife photography, a telephoto lens might be useful, though not essential.
No specific restrictions on photography for personal use are mentioned. However, always be respectful of other visitors.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's crucial to check local FAA guidelines and any specific park rules before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks to make a picnic lunch part of the experience, which can help justify the entrance fee. The lake setting is generally appealing to children, and it's a good spot for a brief outdoor break.
🚤 Boaters and Water Sports Enthusiasts
Despite these issues, if you're looking for a convenient launch point for your boat, it remains a popular choice. Be prepared for potential crowds and congestion, especially during peak times, and consider arriving early to navigate the launch process more smoothly.
📸 Photographers
While not a destination for dramatic vistas, it's a pleasant location for casual photographers looking to capture scenic moments of the lake and its surroundings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Boat Launch Experience
One reviewer suggested implementing a cap on daily non-boat parking passes or assigning parking spaces to alleviate congestion. The frustration stems from the perception that anyone can park anywhere without consequence, detracting from the primary purpose of the boat launch. The cost of launching has also increased, with one user recalling a significant jump from $3 to $12.
For those planning to use the boat launch, arriving early, especially on weekends and holidays, is highly recommended. Be prepared for potential delays and consider alternative launch sites if smooth access is a top priority.
Understanding the Fees and Value
Boat launch fees are significantly higher at $12, a price increase that has drawn criticism. Some visitors recall a time when launching a boat was considerably cheaper, leading to a perception of declining value for money. This is compounded by the aforementioned issues with parking and ramp condition.
To maximize the value of your visit, consider combining a short walk on the boardwalk with a picnic. If you're a boater, weigh the convenience of this launch against the cost and potential for congestion.
Dealing with Uninvited Guests: Spiders
While some reviews suggest natural and inexpensive ways to deter spiders, the general consensus is that better cleaning and management of these facilities would be beneficial. Visitors who are particularly arachnophobic might want to be prepared or consider using facilities elsewhere if possible.
If you plan to use the restrooms, bringing insect repellent or being mindful of your surroundings can help mitigate the experience. It's a small detail, but one that has impacted the overall impression for some guests. :spider:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit