Eagle Island State Park (Idaho) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Eagle Island State Park |
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IUCN Category V (Protected Landscape/Seascape)
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| Location | Eagle, Idaho, United States |
| Area | 545 acres (221 ha) |
| Elevation | 2,524 ft (769 m) |
| Designation | Idaho state park |
| Established | 1983 |
| Administrator | Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation |
| Website | Eagle Island State Park |
Eagle Island State Park is a public recreation area on the southwest outskirts of the city of Eagle, Idaho. The state park covers 545 acres (221 ha) that are bordered by the north and south channels of the Boise River. The park's recreational facilities include swimming beach, picnic area, equestrian trails, and a water slide.
History
The grazing land where the park stands was purchased by the state in 1929 and used as a penitentiary farm until 1977, when the site was turned over to the Idaho Department of Lands. In response to a poll concerning disposition of the land in the local newspaper, the Land Board voted to set aside the property to be managed as Eagle Island State Park. The park was dedicated in 1983.
In his 2006 State of the State Address, Idaho Governor Dirk Kempthorne envisioned a Central Park-like future for Eagle Island, which was followed in 2010 by talk of disbanding the parks department he had formerly headed.
Activities and amenities
The park offers more than 5 miles (8.0 km) of equestrian trails, non-motorized boating, horseshoes, picnicking, swimming, water slide, volleyball, fishing, 18-hole disc golf course, and a zip line. A Sportsman's Access area offers fishing opportunities along the river.
