Eagle Island State Park

I have been to Eagle Island State Park in both summer and winter and find it great for both!
Located less than 10 miles west of Boise, this park offers a little something for everyone regardless of the time of year. Trails, waterslide, volleyball courts, paddle boarding, and disc golf are all great options in the warmer months. In the winter, located inside the park is Gateway Parks, which is a snow park that offers (for a fee) tubing as well as a short snowboard/​ski jump. So, you can get in a little snow time without ever leaving the valley!
One quick note for parents, though – the snow is made from the local pond water, so if you have super little ones who will constantly be wanting to eat the snow? Might want to wait until their a bit older.
They typically bring in a food truck/​stand as well as offer hot beverages by the snow park and have campfires going for those who’d rather sit with a cuppa and keep warm while the kiddos tube to their hearts content.
It’s a $ 5 entrance fee to get into the park. Definitely worth it for a day of fun!
Get to it!

We came today for the first time to take advantage of the beach. Parking was $ 5. We were worried when we first arrived because the parking lot was so full, but we were able to find a spot on the beach without feeling crowded. There was plenty of space for water play in the roped off section as well. There’s restrooms, changing rooms and a play structure. A water slide is available for an extra charge of a dollar a ride or $ 12 unlimited access.
The sandy area was clear of garbage and the grassy areas were well kept as well. The playground lacked a swing set, but we were mostly there for the beach, anyway. There’s not really room for things like beach volleyball but if you just want to relax on the sand or play in the water, it’s more than adequate.
We will definitely be back.

Eagle Island State Park is a ton of fun, and is a great picnic spot.
Bring your own inflatable raft and some quarters — you can fill it up there quickly.
The waterslide is a blast, too… the water is quite cool, so go on a hot summer day.
Large restrooms and showers are available as well to rinse off after swimming in the river/​lake area or after using the waterslide.