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.
Location: McCall, ID
Southwestern Idaho, 2 miles NE of McCall city center
Mailing Address
Box 89
McCall, ID 83638
Phone: (208) 634-2164
Fax: (208) 634-5370
Home to one of Idaho's Premium Nordic Ski Grooming opportunities, Ponderosa
State Park boasts 14.3 miles of groomed trails - 23 kilometers. Nordic trails
range from recreational to competition to accommodate all abilities.
The park also has 3.4 miles of designated snowshoe trails through the forest
that offer viewpoints of the lake. Hike, bike, kayak or conoe. There are several
ways to have a great time at Ponderosa. Check out some of the opportunities for
outdoor adventure under "Spend the Day".
Ponderosa State Park - Venue for 2008 Masters World Cup
Ponderosa State Park and the community of McCall, Idaho will host the 2008
Masters World Cup, a very prestigeous Nordic Ski event. Click here to learn
more.
Habitat
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.
North Beach Unit
Located at the north end of Payette Lake lies the largest public sandy beach
within the 500-acre North Beach Unit. Primitive camping is available at the
Northwest Passage Campground. The Payette River meanders through a forested
valley and provides excellent canoeing. The area is also a sanctuary for
wildlife including deer, ducks, fish and numerous small fur-bearing animals.
Canoe rental is available at the west side day use area.
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