Harriman State Park
00 review3489 Green Canyon Rd, Island Park, Idaho, 83429-5182, United States
Harriman State Park
$7.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
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 canceled within 21 days: $50 or first-night fee. Light cleaning and damage fees may apply.
About this campground
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.
Campsite details
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesYurts are recommended for rustic stays. Historical cabins are an option for deeper exploration.
Best CampsitesBecker Backcountry Yurt mentioned in reviews as a beautiful and peaceful site.
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 are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutFacilities are segregated by site type: Yurts, Houses, and Shelters.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
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.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
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.
Hiking
Hiking 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.Fishing
The 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.Biking
Trail biking is a popular activity, with visitors praising the park's bike trails. "Trail biking is popular in the summer," noted one review.Boating
The park provides boating opportunities, including a boat launch ramp. Specific details on the types of boats allowed are not mentioned.Wildlife viewing
The 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 Programs
The 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.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat-tire biking. "The snow is a little soft in places so we were falling quite a bit," one winter visitor noted. The park also features 24 miles of Nordic ski trails.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are available within 10 miles of the park, based on the facilities list.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires not mentioned; fireworks prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife concerns, including sightings of moose, elk, and bear tracks. Trails may include muddy conditions and horse manure.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Greater than 10 miles away, includes hospitals and medical clinics.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak activities vary seasonally, with summer for hiking and winter for Nordic skiing.
Trash and 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.
Proximity to water featuresHenry's Fork River and Golden Lake are near the facilities.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight muddy trails and limited access to certain cabins during off-season.
HostKyle, a state park ranger, is noted for helpful service.
Campground Map
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.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Harriman State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % 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
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,...
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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...
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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.
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...
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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."
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.
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.
Last updated August 10, 2025