There are some pretty incredible man-made attractions in Idaho such as the Soda Springs Geyser and the falls in Idaho Falls. However, one man-made attraction that should be on every bucket list is Lake Cascade in Idaho. Not only is this lake a popular place to spend your time all year long, but it also has a fascinating history.
Lake Cascade in Idaho is near the small towns of Cascade and Donnelly and it is not your typical lake. Rather, this man-made reservoir was formed by a dam that is located on the North Fork Payette River. This dam was built in 1948, creating this now-popular outdoor area.
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This is the fourth-largest lake in Idaho with a surface area of 47 miles. It is surrounded by mountains and trees and it is quite a sight.
Sam Beebe/Flickr
Over the years, Lake Cascade has become a popular place in the Gem State for outdoor recreation activities. No matter the time of year, you’ll likely see fisherman on its waters and other outdoor enthusiasts.
Lake Cascade State Park/Facebook Whether fishing in the summer months or ice fishing in the winter, some of the fish you are likely to catch include Smallmouth Bass, Rainbow Trout, and Coho Salmon.
There is often an afternoon wind that blows across this man-made lake in Idaho, making it a popular place for windsurfers and sailboats. This is also a fun place for kayaks and canoes as well.
Lake Cascade State Park/Facebook
In the summer, you may even just want to spend a lazy day along the shore or go for a swim in the water.
Lake Cascade State Park/Facebook
Lake Cascade is part of Lake Cascade State Park in Idaho, where there are several year-round camping opportunities.
Lake Cascade State Park/Facebook There are 164 standard campsites, 83 serviced campsites, and 32 primitive campsites around Lake Cascade. There is also one group yurt area with three yurts if you desire a glamping experience. Keep in mind that not all of these campsites are available during the winter months and you’ll want to visit Idaho’s Park and Recreation website for current camping information.
No matter what you choose to do when visiting Lake Cascade, this man-made lake in Idaho is truly something to marvel over. It’s quite the creation, isn’t it?
Lake Cascade State Park/Facebook
For more information on Lake Cascade and the state park, click here.
billandkent/Flickr
Sam Beebe/Flickr
Lake Cascade State Park/Facebook
Whether fishing in the summer months or ice fishing in the winter, some of the fish you are likely to catch include Smallmouth Bass, Rainbow Trout, and Coho Salmon.
There are 164 standard campsites, 83 serviced campsites, and 32 primitive campsites around Lake Cascade. There is also one group yurt area with three yurts if you desire a glamping experience. Keep in mind that not all of these campsites are available during the winter months and you’ll want to visit Idaho’s Park and Recreation website for current camping information.
Have you visited this large lake in Idaho? Did you know it was man-made? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Lake Cascade State Park is the perfect stop on a state park road trip in Idaho. Check out this memorable trip that we created here.
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Address: Lake Cascade, Idaho, USA
