This Idaho State Park Offers RV Camping, Recreation, And Fun Winter Activities

There's so much to explore in the Gem State. While some people come to see its top natural wonders like the star garnet, a gemstone found in only two places on Earth — Idaho and India — others make the trip for Shoshone Falls, a breathtaking destination known as the "Niagara of the West." Boise, the state capital, has also jumped into the spotlight as one of Idaho's top places to visit, thanks to nearby mountains, forests, parks, and rivers. The Boise River runs right through the city, and if you follow that river a few miles west, you'll reach Eagle Island State Park, a 545-acre jewel of outdoor adventure.

The park's history stretches back to the 1860s, when the land was first settled. It operated as a prison farm from 1929 until 1977, when the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation took full control and began developing it. The park officially opened in 1983. Today, it continues to thrill visitors with hiking, biking, swimming, and paddling, plus newly opened RV campsites for overnight adventures. When winter arrives, the park transforms into a haven for tubing and skiing.

The park sits about nine miles from the city of Meridian, less than a 30-minute drive. For those flying in, Boise Airport sees daily flights from major hubs across the U.S., including Chicago O'Hare and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International. From the airport, it's less than an hour via I-84 West to reach the park. With fees ranging from $7 to $14 per vehicle as of this writing, Eagle Island State Park stands out as one of Idaho's most scenic and fun destinations. Keep your eyes open as you explore, and you may spot deer, foxes, otters, geese, or even bald eagles moving through the landscape.

Eagle Island State Park opened its RV camping on August 28, 2025. Not one or two sites, but fifty RV campsites fully equipped with water and sewer hookups available for reservation online. A few finishing touches are still underway, but most of the campground is complete, including ADA accessible campsites and restrooms. One Google reviewer who visited after opening wrote, "Everything is brand new and neat and clean. Warm showers for no charge. Camping spots are huge with full hook ups."

If you didn't bring your own rig, WanderVans offers campervan rentals in the Boise area with prices ranging from $92 to $179 per night. For those visiting in groups, the park has four shelters, two small and two large, that can hold 50 to 100 people each. Prices run $80 to $160, and they're available for overnight use.

When it comes to winter vacations, if you're not taking a winter road trip in Idaho, the state with the most usable hot springs, then spending time here should top your plans. Gateway Parks operates within Eagle Island during winter by transforming spaces like golf courses and ball fields that would otherwise sit unused into winter playgrounds. Visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding when conditions allow, but tubing is the main event. The park is widely considered the best spot for it in Idaho. Sessions last 90 minutes. Tickets run $20 to $25, while children three and under ride free with a parent's supervision. Reserve online before you go. After the cold fun, grab hot chocolate, hot dogs, or waffles by the fireplaces to warm up.

When talking about outdoor activities in the park, the question is where to start. For those seeking waterborne adventures, the park has a swimming beach, and with Boise River bordering the park on both sides, it creates an idyllic spot for non-motorized paddlers. Rent a paddleboard or kayak for $25 to $30 per hour and take in the serene setting. However, before you get on the water, grab a life jacket from the loaner station.

Another highlight is the more than five miles of trails stretching across the park. The 4.7-mile Eagle Island State Park Loop is popular among hikers and horseback riders. The 1.3-mile Eagle Island Lake Loop stays close to the water and works well for hikers and mountain bikers who want a shorter, scenic route. For those who enjoy dangling off a rope, the park has six zip line courses. There's also a parachute-simulated jump off a 60-foot tower for anyone craving something more exhilarating.