Land of the Yankee Fork State Park is a public state park in Idaho near Challis in Custer County. Spanning 521 acres and established in 1990, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Idaho |
| Nearest City | Challis |
| County | Custer |
| Park Size | 521 acres |
| Established | 1990 |
Location & Getting There
Land of the Yankee Fork State Park is located near Challis, Idaho. The park’s coordinates are 44.4756, -114.2106.
Things to Do
Idaho state parks showcase the rugged beauty of the Northern Rockies and high desert — from alpine lakes and dramatic canyons to volcanic landscapes and whitewater rivers. Activities include hiking through mountainous terrain, swimming and boating on pristine alpine and reservoir lakes, fishing for rainbow and cutthroat trout in clear mountain waters, camping in remote forested settings, mountain biking challenging terrain, cross-country skiing in winter, whitewater rafting on renowned rivers, and exploring natural hot springs and volcanic formations.
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June–August) is peak season with warm days, open mountain trails, and excellent lake recreation. Fall (September–October) brings golden aspens and larches to the forests and fewer crowds. Spring is muddy at higher elevations but great for waterfall viewing and fishing as rivers swell. Winter transforms mountain parks into cross-country skiing and snowmobiling destinations. Northern Idaho parks have shorter seasons due to heavier snowfall.
Visitor Tips
Idaho state parks charge a vehicle entry fee of $7 per day ($14 at premium parks). Idaho-registered vehicles can add the $10 Idaho State Parks Passport at registration; out-of-state visitors can buy an $80 annual entry sticker. Camping reservations through the Idaho State Parks reservation system up to 9 months in advance. Many parks are remote with limited cell service and amenities — come prepared. Bear country protocols apply in northern Idaho parks. Water levels on reservoir parks fluctuate significantly during drawdown seasons.
Explore More Idaho State Parks
Land of the Yankee Fork State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Idaho. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Idaho guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Twin Peaks Ranch State Park (within about an hour’s drive).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Land of the Yankee Fork State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are welcome in most Idaho state parks and on trails, but only if confined or controlled on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- 6 ft maximum leash required, or pet must be confined (e.g. in a camper)
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are prohibited from all swim areas and beaches statewide (service animals excepted)
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are allowed at most parks but some parks prohibit them in some cabins and yurts
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Park managers may designate off-leash exercise areas (e.g. Eagle Island off-leash trails); pets may not be left unattended
Are dogs allowed at Land of the Yankee Fork State Park?
Pets are welcome in most Idaho state parks and on trails, but only if confined or controlled on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via parksandrecreation.idaho.gov. More: Idaho state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Map
Plan your gear for Land of the Yankee Fork State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
