- Henry’s Lake State Park offers visitors the best of views and premiere outdoor recreation
- Just 15 miles south of West Yellowstone, the western gateway to Yellowstone National Park
- Fish the lake and catch a rainbow-cutthroat trout hybrid that may weigh 12 pounds
- Hike a backcountry trail through Targhee Creek Basin
Overview
Only a few miles west of Yellowstone National Park, Henry’s Lake State Park has 10,000-foot peaks as a backdrop and an awesome mountain lake for water sports in the Idaho wilderness.
Location/Directions
Henry’s Lake State Park is located on Highway 20, about 45 miles north of Ashton, Idaho and 15 miles south of West Yellowstone, Montana.
Seasons
Henry’s Lake State Park is open for the summer season from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend. Hours are from 9 am to 5 pm daily.
Activities
The park offers numerous campfire programs as well as a Junior Ranger program, but that’s not all you can do here.
Fishing
Henry’s Lake provides some great fishing, with rainbow-cutthroat trout hybrids that can weigh up to a hefty 12 pounds. You’ll also find plenty of large cutthroat and brook trout. Nearby you can fish the streams of the Madison, Gallatin and Fork Rivers. Looking for a modern cleaning station? You’ll find one close to the boat ramp at the lake.
Boating
Although sometimes unpredictable weather, there’s nothing nicer than boating on Henry’s Lake. Use the boat ramp on the lake to launch your boat.
Hiking
Hike the self-guided interpretive trail where you’ll enjoy the sun and fresh air for your 3-mile walk. The backcountry also provides a number of trails through the Targhee Creek Basin. The breathtaking views of the valley will win your heart.
Camping
Camping out in Henry’s Lake State Park is a fun adventure for the whole family, right on the shoreline. There are 45 campsites, many of which have water and electricity, and all have a campfire grill and picnic table. Cabins for camping are also available to rent.
Fees
2017 fees are as follows.
- Day use pass – $5/day
- Campsite – $20-$31/night
- Five-person cabins – $50-$55/night
- All boats must have an invasive species sticker – $7 (non-motorized)/$22 (motorized) if registered outside Idaho
Additional Info
This 585-acre park was named after the explorer, Major Andrew Henry, an American fur trader who had a reputation for honesty. He started the Rocky Mountain Fur Company and led an expedition to the mouth of the Yellowstone River, building a post there that came to be known as Fort Henry.
