Winchester Lake State Park surrounds a 104-acre lake, nestled in a forested area at the foot of the Craig Mountains, just off US 95 adjoining the town of Winchester.
Winters at the park are long and cold with ample snowfall. Four Yurts are available for rental all year. Summers are short with warm days and cool, refreshing evenings. Ponderosa pine and Douglas fir are the predominant vegetation. Fishing for perch, tiger muskie, bass and blue gill are popular. Wildlife often seen in the park includes white-tailed deer, Canada geese, muskrats, Steller’s jay, racoons, osprey, bald eagles, and Columbian ground squirrels. The Wolf Education and Research Center is located one mile from the entrance to the park.
The Park Today
March
Spring may be here on the calendar, but winter is still alive and well at the park. If you've been wanting one more adventure in the snow--to ski or snowshoe--now is the time. We just got 1 1/2 feet of new snow, and the surface of the lake is still completely frozen over with a thick sheet of ice. Our Park winter office hours are in effect. We are open to help you on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 10am to 3pm.
Winter Rates are still in effect at the park, too--so take advantage. Campground Loops B and C are closed for the winter, but Loop A is available, and the Yurts can be used all year round. Water and power are shut off to all campsites; however water is available at the Park Headquarters.
About the Park
The park offers year-round recreation activities and has a modern campground with 69 campsites, and 4 yurts. Canoeing, fishing, picnicking and hiking are popular summer activities. In the winter, enjoy cross-country skiing, ice-skating, and ice fishing.
The most popular activity at Winchester is fishing for rainbow trout, which are planted annually by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. Fishing for perch, tiger muskie, bass and blue gill is also popular. The lake provides excellent nutrients and supports large populations of all four species. Small boats are allowed; gasoline engines are not.
Park Restrictions:
Pets are welcome in the park; however they must be on a leash and attended at all times.