THREE ISLAND CROSSING STATE PARK
Three Island Crossing State Park is located on the Snake River at Glenns Ferry. It is home to The Oregon Trail History and Education Center where visitors can learn about pioneer emigrants and Native American history.
Oregon Trail pioneers knew this spot well. It was one of the most famous river crossings on the historic trail. Pioneer travelers used the three-island crossing until 1869, when Gus Glenn constructed a ferry about two miles upstream. The Glenns Ferry community sponsors a crossing commemoration the second Saturday of each August. Events often include living history presentations and historic skills fair.
Day-UseFishingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Swimming Beachyes
WinterActivitiesyes
Cabin amenities Units sleep five and are equipped with electricity, lockable windows and doors, heat and A/C.
Reservation Season Reservations are available year round for cabins in the Day-Use Area and Wagon Wheel Upper Campground. Reservation for cabins in Trailside Lower Campground are accepted April 1st through October 31st.
Make a reservation online, or call 866 634-3246
Trailside Lower Campground
Available Campsites Serviced Campsite/W,E and Companion Serviced Campsite/W,E
Amenities include individual campsites with water and electricity, and central showers and restroom facilities.
Reservation Season Reservation are available in the Trailside Lower Campground from March 15th through October 31st. Camping is available throughout the off-season on a first come, first served basis.
Make a reservation online, or call 866 634-3246.
Wagon Wheel Upper Campground
Available Campsites Serviced Campsite/W,E and Companion Serviced Campsite/W,E
Amenities include individual campsites with water and electricity, and central showers and restroom facilities.
Reservation Season Reservations are available in the Wagon Wheel Upper Campground from April 1st through October 31st. Camping is available throughout the off-season on a first come, first served basis.
Make a reservation online, or call 866 634-3246.
Multiple Site Reservation Considerations
For groups wishing to book multiple sites seven 7 campsites or more Trailside LowerCampground is available multiple site reservations for seven 7 campsites or more must be made through the call center at 866-634-3246.
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. There is the Snake River, which provides opportunities for motorized and non-motorized watercraft use including power boats, jet skis, canoes and kayaks. However, it's important to note that there are no boat ramps or docks within the park itself; instead nearby Glenns Ferry has facilities available. The river also hosts an annual event where people reenact pioneers crossing in covered wagons using modern day rafts.
Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy angling in the Snake River, home to species like catfish, smallmouth bass and trout.
Three Island Crossing State Park is
Three Island Crossing State Park offers picnic tables, grills and shelters. It's perfect for family outings with beautiful river views.
Biking enthusiasts can explore the park's paved roads. Off-road biking is not recommended due to rough terrain and wildlife presence.
The 3-mile loop trail offers a moderate challenge for cyclists, with some hilly sections requiring extra effort.
Cyclists should be aware that there are no dedicated bike lanes in this area; sharing the road with vehicles is necessary.
Riding after dark isn't advised as lighting within the park premises remains limited during night hours.
Always wear helmets while riding bikes inside this natural reserve to ensure safety from unexpected accidents or falls.
Be cautious of pedestrians on shared paths - slow down when approaching others and use your bell if needed.
Remember, it's important to respect nature by staying on designated trails only - off-trail cycling could damage local flora/fauna habitats.
Lastly, always check weather conditions before heading out since sudden changes may make certain routes unsafe for bicycling activities.
The Oregon Trail in Idaho
The trail played a significant role in the exploration and settlement of western America. The original course of the Oregon Trail was from Independence, Missouri to Oregon City in Oregon's Willamette Valley. Most pioneers traveled the trail from 1841 through 1848. However, fur trappers and explorers used the travel corridor as early as 1811. By the mid-1860s, the trail was used little as an emigration route.
The Oregon Trail entered Idaho in the southeast corner of the state. At Fort Hall, it joined the Snake River, following the south bank until this crossing was reached near Glenns Ferry. The route left Idaho near the site of old Fort Boise, near Parma, after winding through 500 miles of the state.
A Risky River Crossing
Upon reaching the Three Island ford, the emigrants had a difficult decision to make. Should they risk the dangerous crossing of the Snake, or endure the dry, rocky route along the south bank of the river? About half of the emigrants chose to attempt the crossing by using the gravel bars that extended across the river. Not all were successful; many casualties are recounted in pioneer diaries. The rewards of a successful crossing were a shorter route, more potable water and better feed for the stock.
The Three Island ford was used by pioneer travelers until 1869, when Gus Glenn constructed a ferry about two miles upstream.
Crossing Reenactments
The Glenns Ferry community sponsors a crossing reenactment the second Saturday of each August. Events often include living history presentations and a historic skills fair. Contact the park for details of this year's event.
Modern travelers will find a stay at Three Island Crossing much more hospitable than did the pioneers. Located just off Interstate 84 at the Glenns Ferry exit, the park offers a full-service campground, cabins, picnic areas, historical interpretive programs and a fascinating admission-free interpretive center. You can take the self-guided tour, see the replica wagons and dangle your feet in the Snake River where emigrants made their historic crossings.