Heyburn State Park
Idaho's oldest state park, Heyburn State Park preserves the scenic shoreline of Lake Coeur d'Alene and the St. Joe River delta. Visitors come for boating, fishing, camping, wildlife viewing, and easy access to the historic Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes.
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Visiting with Dogs
Dogs allowed in developed areas and on trails; must be leashed, controlled, and cleaned up after. Not allowed in buildings.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Scenic lake views, great boating and fishing, peaceful camping, and easy access to trails make Heyburn State Park a favorite for relaxing outdoor getaways.
Tips from Visitors
- Arrive early for popular summer weekends and boat launches.
- Bring insect repellent for mosquitoes near marshes and shoreline.
- Check trail and water conditions before hiking or paddling.
- Reserve campsites ahead during peak season and holidays.
- Pack layers; weather can change quickly near the lake.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Heyburn State Park is late spring through early fall, when the lake is warm enough for boating and swimming and the wetlands are alive with birds. Summer offers the fullest range of services and activities.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Heyburn State Park:
- Trail of the Coeur d'AlenesA paved rail-trail popular for biking, walking, and wildlife viewing, with scenic stretches near the park.1 mile away
- Lake Coeur d'AleneA major North Idaho lake known for boating, fishing, and summer recreation.2 miles away
- St. Joe RiverA scenic river corridor offering fishing, paddling, and access to forested recreation areas.5 miles away
Things to Do at Heyburn State Park
Camping at Heyburn State Park
Heyburn State Park offers tent and RV camping with hookups, restrooms, showers, picnic areas, reservations, and seasonal availability.
Hiking Trails
Heyburn State Park offers easy, scenic day hiking with a relaxed lakeside feel. Trails are generally well maintained and family-friendly, winding through forest, marsh, and shoreline areas with views of Chatcolet Lake and surrounding wetlands. Hikers often enjoy birdwatching, quiet nature walks, and gentle terrain rather than strenuous climbs. It’s a great spot for a peaceful outing, especially in spring, summer, and early fall.
Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes (Heyburn section)
easyA scenic paved rail-trail segment along the shoreline and wetlands near Heyburn State Park, ideal for walking, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
Chatcolet Bridge to Benewah Campground Loop
easyA gentle loop with lake and forest views, connecting park roads and trail segments around the Benewah area.
Plummer Point Trail
moderateA wooded trail with rolling terrain and views of Chatcolet Lake, offering a quieter backcountry-style hike within the park.
Benewah Lake Shoreline Trail
easyA short shoreline hike with opportunities for birdwatching and lake access, best for a relaxed outing.
Directions
From Coeur d'Alene, drive south on US-95 to Plummer, then follow signs to Heyburn State Park and Chatcolet. The park has multiple access points near the lake and Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes.
Contact & Info
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular things to do at Heyburn State Park?
Visitors commonly enjoy hiking, biking, boating, fishing, swimming, and birdwatching. The trail system and lake access are especially popular, and many reviews mention the park’s peaceful scenery and family-friendly outdoor activities.
Is Heyburn State Park good for camping?
Yes. Campers often like the park’s wooded sites, lake views, and easy access to trails and water. Reviews frequently mention a quiet atmosphere, though some sites can be more rustic than expected, so it helps to check amenities before booking.
Can I bring a boat or kayak to Heyburn State Park?
Yes. The park is a popular spot for boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding on Chatcolet and Benewah lakes. Visitors often recommend launching early on busy weekends and checking current water conditions before heading out.
Are there good hiking and biking trails at Heyburn State Park?
Yes. Many visitors praise the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes access and the park’s scenic routes. The trails are generally considered easy to moderate, with lake and forest views that make them popular for both casual walkers and cyclists.
Is Heyburn State Park family-friendly?
Yes. Families often appreciate the calm water access, picnic areas, and easy trails. Reviews commonly describe it as a relaxing place for kids and adults, though supervision is important near docks, beaches, and boat ramps.
What should I know before visiting Heyburn State Park?
Visitors often suggest bringing bug spray, checking weather and lake conditions, and reserving campsites early in peak season. Some reviews note that cell service can be limited in parts of the park, so it’s smart to plan ahead.
Don’t Forget the Essentials
Essential camping & hiking gear we recommend to make your park trip easier and more comfortable.
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