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Idaho
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Idaho State Parks

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USA Parks
Idaho
Southwest Region
Ponderosa State Park
Ponderosa State Park © Benny Baughman
Ponderosa State Park © Benny Baughman
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PONDEROSA STATE PARK
PONDEROSA STATE PARK
1920 Davis Ave
McCall, Idaho   83638
(lat:44.9252 lon:-116.0911) map location

Phone: (208) 634-2164
Reservations: 208-634-2164
Email: park email button icon
Ponderosa State Park covers most of a 1,000-acre peninsula that juts into beautiful Payette Lake near McCall. The scenic overlook at Osprey Point offers a spectacular view of the lake. The park offers hiking and biking trails, guided walks with park naturalists and evening campfire programs. The North Beach Unit has a beach and picnic area. The topography ranges from arid sagebrush flats to dense forests. Wildlife that can be viewed at the park include Canada geese, osprey, bald eagles, wood ducks, mallards, songbirds, deer, moose, beaver, muskrats and even bear. Winter activities include Nordic skiing on one of two USSA-certified cross-country courses.
Nature of the Area
The park?s namesake, the 150-foot-tall ponderosa pine, is the most noticeable species of tree. Douglas fir, grand fir, lodgepole pine and western larch also grow in the park. The character of the park is molded by its diverse topography. It ranges from arid sagebrush flats to forested lakeside trails; from even ground to steep cliffs; and from dense forest to spongy marsh. The park is rich in wildflowers, especially along the interpretive trail that winds around the Meadow Marsh. Nature trails and gravel roads have been developed so visitors can enjoy opportunities to view wildlife in these areas.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseHiking Trailyes
 Swimming Beachyes
 Bike Trailsyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
WinterActivitiesyes
Cabins
Cabin Amenities The unit sleeps four and is equipped with electricity, lockable windows and doors, heat and A/C.


Reservation Season Reservations for Ponderosa State Park cabins are available year-round.

You may make cabin reservations by calling 208 634-2164.Park Yurts

Yurt amenities The unit is furnished with a bunk bed, futon, table and chairs. There is an electric light inside, and are heated with propane. Outside, you can cook on the fire ring. Each yurt sleeps five. Please, NO PETS inside the Ponderosa Yurts


Reservations Reservations for Ponderosa State Park yurts are available year round.

Make a reservation online, or call 866 634-3246.
Camping
Northwest Passage

Available Campsites Standard Campsites

Amenities include individual sites with central water and vault toilets.

Reservation Season Camping in Northwest Passage Campground at Ponderosa State Park is available on a first-come, first-served basis and is available from mid-June weather conditions permitting through the end of October weather conditions permitting.

Peninsula Campground

Available Campsites Serviced Campsites/W,E and Companion Serviced Campsites/W,E

Amenities include individual sites with water and electrical hook-ups, and central shower and restroom facilities.

Reservation Season You may reserve campsites in the Peninsula Campground from the Thursday prior to Memorial Day through Labor Day. Camping on a first-come, first-served basis is available from the beginning of May to the Thursday prior to Memorial Day weekend weather conditions permitting, and from the day after Labor Day through the end of October weather conditions permitting.

Make a reservation online, or call 866 634-3246.Multiple Site Reservation Considerations For groups wishing to book multiple sites seven 7 campsites or more Chokecherry Loop is available multiple site reservations for seven 7 campsites or more must be made through the call center at 866-634-3246.
Swimming
1. Ponderosa State Park offers two public swimming areas: North Beach and Peninsula.
2. Both beaches have sandy shores, perfect for sunbathing or building sandcastles.
3. The water is clear with a gradual depth increase, suitable for all ages to swim safely.
4. Lifeguards are not present at the beach; swimmers should exercise caution when entering deeper waters.
5. Swimming off boats in Payette Lake's open water zones is also allowed within park boundaries.
6. The lake temperature can be chilly even during summer months so it may not suit everyone's preference.
7. Pets are prohibited from both designated swimming areas but they're permitted on leashes elsewhere in the park.

Boating
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. There is a boat ramp available at the Peninsula Unit, allowing easy access to Payette Lake where motorized and non-motorized boats can be used. The North Beach Unit also has water access but does not have an official launch site; it's more suitable for hand-launching small crafts like kayaks or paddleboards. Boat rentals including pontoon boats, fishing boats, stand up paddle boards (SUPs), jet skis etc., are offered by local vendors around the lake.
Fishing
Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of options. The park's waters are home to rainbow trout, smallmouth bass and perch. Anglers have the choice between lake fishing or ice fishing in winter months. Boat rentals are available for those who prefer deep water angling.


Location
Ponderosa State Park is

Picnicking
Ponderosa State Park offers picnic tables, grills and shelters. It's perfect for family gatherings with beautiful lake views.
Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts will find a variety of trails suitable for different skill levels. Be aware, some paths can be challenging.

The park offers over 20 miles of biking routes through picturesque landscapes. Always stay alert to avoid accidents.

Mountain bikers should note that the Huckleberry Bay Loop is particularly steep and rocky in places - caution advised!

For those seeking less strenuous rides, consider exploring the Peninsula trail which has gentle slopes and beautiful views.

Remember: always wear appropriate safety gear when cycling on these trails; helmets are mandatory at all times while riding bikes here!

Some areas may have restrictions during certain seasons due to wildlife activity or weather conditions - check before you go!

Lastly, respect nature by sticking to marked tracks only as off-road biking could damage delicate ecosystems within this natural haven.
Birding
The park offers a diverse range of bird species for enthusiasts to observe. Birdwatchers can spot waterfowl, songbirds, raptors and more in various habitats such as wetlands and forests. The area is home to over 150 different types of birds throughout the year. Visitors may also participate in guided bird walks during summer months.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
July 31 Great park, had a wonderful time there by Doug & Shirley
park review stars; one to five We loved our week at the new RV area. Except we were not allowed to take our 3 year old Golden Retriever to the beach with us, even on a leash with our doggie bag handy.
July 6 Favorite famlily va-ca spot by Vince L.
park review stars; one to five We have stayed at the Park for several years over the 4th of July.Staff is excellent,park is kept clean,showers well maintained, and the New Visitor Center and beach is the bomb. If you go take care of it for the future generations.
May 14 A very beautiful experience by Randy and Roxanne -Central OR
park review stars; one to five We had the whole campground to ourselves in May. It is a very nice park even has hot showers. There are many places to hike. The sunsets over the lake were memorable. It is a great place to visit and stay.
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