Henrys Lake State Park

Henrys Lake State Park

Island Park, Idaho (Fremont County)

4.6 (687 reviews)

About This Park

Henry's Lake lies high in a mountain bowl (elev. 6,470 feet) 15 miles from the west entrance to Yellowstone National Park. With a backdrop of Sawtell Peak, the shallow lake is known for its trout fishery. The Henry's Fork of the Snake River originates here, just below the Continental Divide between Idaho and Montana. The South Shore Boat Access has an undeveloped boat ramp, primitive camping, fishing, and a wildlife-viewing platform. Additionally, this is stop along the Idaho Bi

Based on the facts provided and my knowledge of Henrys Lake State Park, here’s the description:

Henrys Lake State Park

Tucked into the high country of Island Park at nearly 6,500 feet elevation, Henrys Lake State Park sits at the doorstep of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem — just 15 miles from the west entrance to Yellowstone National Park. The 585-acre park wraps around the southwestern shore of Henrys Lake, one of Idaho’s most celebrated trophy trout fisheries.

Anglers come from across the country to pursue the lake’s hybrid cutthroat-rainbow trout (known locally as “cutbows”), brook trout, and yellowstone cutthroat, many reaching 5 pounds or more. Whether you fish from shore, a float tube, or a small motorboat, the lake delivers. A boat ramp provides easy access to the water.

Beyond fishing, the park offers hiking trails with sweeping views of the Continental Divide and the Centennial Mountains. Wildlife watching is rewarding here — moose, sandhill cranes, osprey, and white pelicans are common sights around the marshy inlets. The surrounding area also serves as a gateway for mountain biking, horseback riding, and snowmobiling in winter.

The campground features 45 sites with electric hookups, restrooms, and a dump station, making it comfortable for both tent campers and RV travelers. Sites fill quickly in peak season, so reservations are recommended.

The best time to visit is late June through September, when the lake’s fishing peaks and wildflowers blanket the surrounding meadows. Nights run cool even in summer at this elevation, so pack layers. If you’re planning a Yellowstone trip, Henrys Lake is the quieter, uncrowded basecamp you didn’t know you needed.

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1 places to explore within 30 miles

1 State Park