Harriman State Park

4.78

27 reviews

3489 Green Canyon Rd, Island Park, Idaho, 83429-5182, United States

Scenic ViewsFishingSummer Destination

Featured in:Camping Near Yellowstone National Park#1 Summer Camping Idaho#3 Hidden Gem Campgrounds Idaho +1 more

Quick Facts

6,135 ft

Price

$7 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

Opens Idaho State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,135 ft

Price

$7 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

Opens Idaho State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Harriman State Park

$7.00 - $50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The $7 Motor Vehicle Entrance Fee (MVEF) is required per vehicle entering the park. Winter Access Fee is $5 per person. Cancellation fees apply if...

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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2085587368

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What Campers Say

4.78

Top-Rated

Based on 27 reviews

675 Google reviews

Most mentioned

scenerywell-maintained

"Reviews of Harriman State Park are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing its natural beauty, diverse activities, and historical significance. "Rustic, off the beaten path with no pretentious hoopla. Just pure Idaho back country," one user summarized."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

3489 Green Canyon Rd, Island Park, Idaho, 83429-5182, United States

Harriman State Park

3489 Green Canyon Rd, Island Park, Idaho, 83429-5182, United States

Driving directionsLocated 18 miles north of Ashton, ID on Highway 20 between mile markers 379 & 380, or 40 miles south of West Yellowstone, MT on Highway 20. Turn off on the Green Canyon Rd. and travel 1/2 mile to the Park Entrance.

Access is straightforward from Highway 20, with no indication of seasonal road closures or challenging terrain.

Nearby places

Island Park (14 miles, approx. 20 min), Ashton (18 miles, approx. 30 min), West Yellowstone (38 miles, approx. 1 hour drive).

Nearby supplies

Within 10 miles: grocery stores, dining, retail supplies, and propane

Greater than 1 mile: camping supplies and improved camping sites.

Best Time to Camp at Harriman State Park

Experience the magic of four distinct seasons at Harriman State Park. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, with temperatures dancing between 20°F and 30°F, creating perfect conditions for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing adventures. The relatively moderate 30-40% chance of snowfall ensures fresh powder without overwhelming storms. As summer arrives, the park comes alive under brilliant blue skies, with temperatures climbing to a comfortable 80°F. These warm, sun-drenched days with minimal precipitation create ideal conditions for wildlife watching, hiking, and soaking in the natural splendor of the Yellowstone region.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

5.0 / 5

Top 4% in ID

Summer is peak for hiking, biking, horseback and general recreation; reviews highlight summer use.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall brings seasonal wildlife events (elk bugling) and strong wildlife-viewing opportunities.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Top 11% in ID

Spring offers abundant wildlife viewing; park experiences all four seasons with seasonal highlights.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.0 / 5

Top 6% in ID

Winter sees cross-country/Nordic skiing and snowshoeing; park open year-round with snow activities.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak activities vary seasonally, with summer for hiking and winter for Nordic skiing.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round.

About Harriman State Park

Nestled within 11,000 pristine acres of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, Harriman State Park stands as a premier wildlife refuge where nature enthusiasts discover an untamed wilderness paradise. The legendary Henry's Fork winds through the landscape, drawing fly-fishing aficionados from around the globe to test their skills in these renowned waters. While traditional camping isn't permitted, the park offers unique lodging experiences including cozy yurts, rustic bunkhouses, and beautifully restored historical cabins. Summer visitors can explore miles of scenic hiking trails and experience guided horseback rides through meadows dotted with wildflowers, while winter transforms the park into a Nordic skiing wonderland with groomed trails stretching through snow-laden forests.

Harriman State Park features a range of camping accommodations, including historical cabins, premium and deluxe yurts, and group facilities. User reviews frequently highlight the rustic charm and comfort of these lodging options.

Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the carefully preserved legacy of the Harriman family, whose vision helped protect this remarkable landscape for future generations. The park showcases meticulously restored early settlers' homes, weathered barns that once housed livestock, and charming cabins that whisper stories of frontier life. These historical treasures offer visitors a tangible connection to the past, allowing you to walk through the same rooms where pioneers once gathered around warm hearths, sharing tales of their adventures in the American West.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of four distinct seasons at Harriman State Park. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, with temperatures dancing between 20°F and 30°F, creating perfect conditions for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing adventures. The relatively moderate 30-40% chance of snowfall ensures fresh powder without overwhelming storms. As summer arrives, the park comes alive under brilliant blue skies, with temperatures climbing to a comfortable 80°F. These warm, sun-drenched days with minimal precipitation create ideal conditions for wildlife watching, hiking, and soaking in the natural splendor of the Yellowstone region.

ElevationThe park's varied terrain offers diverse ecosystems and stunning vistas across the Greater Yellowstone region.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living postcard where crystal-clear streams meander through verdant meadows, creating a patchwork of wetlands that support an incredible diversity of wildlife. Towering pine forests provide sanctuary for majestic moose and graceful elk, while the park's pristine waters serve as crucial habitat for the rare and elegant trumpeter swans. Watch as V-formations of geese paint patterns across expansive skies, and keep your camera ready for unexpected wildlife encounters around every bend. This remarkable ecosystem showcases nature at its finest, offering visitors intimate glimpses of animals thriving in their natural habitat.

Geological RegionHarriman State Park encompasses 11,000 acres of protected wilderness within the world-famous Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, one of the largest intact temperate ecosystems on Earth. The landscape tells a story written in meandering streams that have carved their paths through ancient valleys, dense pine forests that have stood sentinel for generations, and jewel-like lakes that mirror the endless Idaho sky. This geological wonderland serves as a vital corridor for wildlife migration and represents a crucial piece of the larger Yellowstone puzzle, where volcanic history meets pristine wilderness in perfect harmony.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in procedure involves finding a key on the table.

Check-out

Keys must be left in the facility upon check-out.

Stay Limit

Camping not permitted.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Varies by facility, e.g., up to 70 people for Boys House.

Groups

Group facilities such as the Boys House and Ranchview Shelter are available. The Boys House accommodates up to 70 people, while the Ranchview Shelter can host up to 50.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutFacilities are segregated by site type: Yurts, Houses, and Shelters.

Reservation PlatformsReservations available through park contact: phone (208-558-7368).

Walk-in AvailabilityNo mention of walk-up availability; reservations appear necessary for all facilities.

Cancellation PolicyReservations canceled within 21 calendar days before arrival forfeit the first night fee; cancellations made earlier incur a $50 fee.

Total Campsites10 campsites

Recommended SitesYurts are recommended for rustic stays. Historical cabins are an option for deeper exploration.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Lodging and accommodations

Camp Store

Activities you can enjoy

Harriman State Park provides diverse recreational activities ranging from hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing to cultural and winter activities. User reviews emphasize the variety of experiences, including horseback riding, biking, and picnicking. "Nice quiet park with some great sites, river, and lake. Plenty of restrooms, Yurt camping, areas for picnics," noted one user. Winter offers specific activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

HikingHiking trails cater to different levels of difficulty, from easy to extreme. One user shared, "Had a really nice 5-mile hike out here yesterday. I saw 2 gray owls, a bunch of trumpeter swans at Golden Lake, and was lucky to hear the elk bugling." Another review highlighted the park's well-marked trails.

FishingThe park is known for fly-fishing on the renowned Henrys Fork River. "World class fishing," remarked one visitor. The river winds through the park, providing excellent fishing opportunities.

BikingTrail biking is a popular activity, with visitors praising the park's bike trails. "Trail biking is popular in the summer," noted one review.

BoatingThe park provides boating opportunities, including a boat launch ramp. Specific details on the types of boats allowed are not mentioned.

Wildlife viewingThe park offers abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. Moose, elk, trumpeter swans, and waterfowl are frequently spotted. "We saw moose, eagles and listened to the elk trumpet. Even saw bear tracks," noted one visitor.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe park hosts various cultural and educational programs, including Moonlight Serenades, Halloween activities, and elk bugling events. "Those who manage Harriman State Park have done a wonderful job in creating activities," one reviewer emphasized.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWildlife concerns, including sightings of moose, elk, and bear tracks. Trails may include muddy conditions and horse manure.

Fire PolicyCampfires not mentioned; fireworks prohibited.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM.

Emergency ServicesGreater than 10 miles away, includes hospitals and medical clinics.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available within the park. Renters are responsible for light cleaning and waste management, and specific cleaning procedures are outlined in the Facility Manual located in each building.

Water FeaturesHenry's Fork River and Golden Lake are near the facilities.

Camp HostKyle, a state park ranger, is noted for helpful service.

Weather at Harriman State Park

Reviews

4.8

27 reviews

Top-Rated

Harriman State Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews of Harriman State Park are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing its natural beauty, diverse activities, and historical significance. "Rustic, off the beaten path with no pretentious hoopla. Just pure Idaho back country," one user summarized.

Review Summaries

Based on 27 reviews

What Campers Love

Users highlighted the park's stunning scenery, well-maintained facilities, and range of activities. "Stunning scenery and well-preserved homestead," one user wrote. Another remarked, "Such a magical,...

Based on 27 reviews

Common Concerns

A few negative experiences were noted, including occasional conflicts between visitors (e.g., disputes over trail usage). One visitor mentioned, "We did get cussed out by a cross-country skier who...

Based on 27 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend taking advantage of seasonal activities like elk walks in the fall and wildflower walks in the spring. "Bring your own bedding," advised one reviewer who stayed in a yurt.

Based on 27 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is popular for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, while winter attracts cross-country skiers and snowshoers. Wildlife is visible year-round, but specific events like elk bugling are...

Based on 27 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Turn off your phones, put away your digital self, and listen to nature," one reviewer advised. Another noted, "The visitor center is clean and the outhouses were well maintained too."

Based on 27 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific accommodations such as the Becker Backcountry Yurt received praise for their scenic locations and rustic charm. "We stayed in the back country yurt and it was beautiful," one review noted.

Based on 27 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are restricted to parking lots and must be leashed. "Pets are not allowed on park trails, in any park buildings or yurts," according to park policies.

Based on 27 reviews

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