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Idaho State Parks

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USA Parks
Idaho
Southeast Region
Massacre Rocks State Park
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Massacre Rocks State Park Harmless snake © Larry Schwager
Unknown make and model - but he sure was fast -
Massacre Rocks State Park Wagon Wheels of the Past © Larry Schwager
Wheels from a wagon used many years ago -
Massacre Rocks State Park Gorilla Rock © Larry Schwager
Natural face by Mother Nature
Massacre Rocks State Park Water and Rocks © Larry Schwager
One of the views from a trail at Massacre Rock
Massacre Rocks State Park Big Boulders © Larry Schwager
Boulders that were rolled by fast moving water many years ago.
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MASSACRE ROCKS STATE PARK
MASSACRE ROCKS STATE PARK
3592 Park Ln
American Falls, Idaho   83211-5556
(lat:42.6705 lon:-112.9953) map location

Phone: (208) 548-2672
Reservations: 208-548-2672
Oregon Trail emigrants referred to the Massacre Rocks area as "Gate of Death" and "Devil's Gate", but modern day travelers use terms like beautiful, serene, and restful to describe the park. the park is rich in Oregon Trail, geological, and natural histories.

Rich in history, pioneers used this area, specifically what is now referred to as ? Register Rock? as a rest stop for years. Today we invite horse owners to water and rest their animals in the corral at Register Rock. Many emigrant names are inscribed on the large rock, which is now protected by a weather shelter. A scenic picnic area surrounds the rock, creating a desert oasis for the modern traveler. The site also includes a horse rest area for highway travelers.

Oregon Trail remnants are most easily seen from highway rest areas in either end of the park. For additional information on the Oregon Trail visit the Three Island Crossing State Park page and the Oregon/California Trail Center website.
Nature of the Area
Massacre Rocks State Park is a favorite for birdwatchers. Over 200 species of birds have been sighted in the park. Canada geese, grebes, bald eagles, pelicans and blue herons are often seen. Mammals include the cottontail, jack rabbit, coyote, muskrat and beaver. The desert environment produces about 300 species of plants in the park. The most common are sagebrush, Utah juniper and rabbit brush.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseFishingyes
 Hiking Trailyes
 Swimming Beachyes
 Bike Trailsyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
WinterActivitiesyes
Boating
The park, located in Idaho, offers a variety of boating options. The Snake River runs through the area and provides opportunities for motorized as well as non-motorized watercraft activities such as canoeing or kayaking. There is also access to boat ramps within the vicinity for easy launching of boats into the river.
Fishing
Anglers can enjoy fishing in the Snake River, home to catfish, smallmouth bass and rainbow trout. A valid Idaho fishing license is required. Fishing gear rentals are available on-site for convenience. Boat ramps provide easy access to water-based activities including angling.


Location
Massacre Rocks State Park is

Picnicking
Massacre Rocks State Park offers numerous picnic areas with tables and grills. Some sites overlook the Snake River for scenic dining.
Bicycling
For cycling enthusiasts, a variety of trails are available. However, caution is advised due to the rugged terrain.

The park offers both paved and unpaved paths for cyclists with varying skill levels.

Mountain biking can be challenging on some routes as they feature steep inclines and rocky surfaces.

It's important to note that certain areas may require dismounting your bike due to safety concerns or preservation efforts.

Always remember: helmets are mandatory while riding in this area; ensure you have one before starting your journey.

Check local weather conditions prior - sudden changes could make pathways slippery and dangerous.

Lastly, respect wildlife by keeping distance when encountering them during rides.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
June 12 We have been going there every year. by Jr & Lynda
park review stars; one to five We go there every 4th of July and we love this State park Showers clean bathrooms very nice people are around use and the camp managers are very nice and helpful with any thing. It is also a safe place for older people like us. It is a place we go every 4th of July and take our family with us.
June 5 A favorite
park review stars; one to five Love the history (Oregon Trail) and views of the Snake River.
January 16 Loved It! by Diesel Camper California
park review stars; one to five On our way home back to California from Yellowstone we decided to give Massacre Rocks a try. I am so glad we did, I thought it was wonderful!! We camped in the lower loop and had a decent view of the river. There are several trails you can hike on and my favorite was to an actual part of the Oregon Trail where Rutt Marks are still visible from the wagon trains that passed thru!!! On our hike(which is very easy) we saw many different animals and cute little cactus flowers. The campground is full hook ups which was an added bonus in such an isolated area, YAY for showers!! We will for sure be back one day. The visitor center is nice too and the staff were helpful.
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