Palisades Reservoir
A vast, scenic reservoir nestled amidst mountains, perfect for boating, fishing, and breathtaking drives.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters & fewer crowds
Palisades Reservoir
Best Time
Calm waters & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast, scenic reservoir nestled amidst mountains, perfect for boating, fishing, and breathtaking drives.
"Absolutely beautiful lake and scenic drive, worth the drive from Utah!"
🚗 Scenic Drive Views
Drive the entire length of the reservoir for incredible views and access points.
🎣 Fishing Fun
While some find fishing challenging, the scenery makes it worthwhile.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Drive Along the Shoreline
Eastern Shoreline
Experience breathtaking mountain vistas and expansive water views on a drive that hugs the reservoir's edge.
Trout Fishing Adventures
Various fishing spots
Cast a line into the clear waters for a chance to catch trout in a picturesque setting.
Boating and Paddleboarding
Boat ramps and open water
Glide across the calm waters, enjoying the surrounding natural beauty from a unique perspective.
Camping Under the Stars
Campgrounds
Spend a night surrounded by nature, with opportunities for stargazing and waking up to stunning lake views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Accessing the Reservoir's Beauty
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Scenic Drive Views
Drive the entire length of the reservoir for incredible views and access points.
🎣 Fishing Fun
While some find fishing challenging, the scenery makes it worthwhile.
🛶 Water Sports Galore
Perfect for paddleboarding and boating with friends!
🏞️ Underrated Idaho Gem
Idaho's beauty is often overlooked; this reservoir is a must-see.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Scenic Drive Views
Drive the entire length of the reservoir for incredible views and access points.
🎣 Fishing Fun
While some find fishing challenging, the scenery makes it worthwhile.
🛶 Water Sports Galore
Perfect for paddleboarding and boating with friends!
🏞️ Underrated Idaho Gem
Idaho's beauty is often overlooked; this reservoir is a must-see.
🏕️ Boondocking Paradise
Ideal for boondocking with friends and enjoying the lifestyle.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the stunning natural beauty of Palisades Reservoir, highlighting the picturesque mountain scenery and clear blue waters. The opportunities for boating, fishing, and scenic drives are frequently mentioned as major draws. While some find fishing challenging, the overall ambiance and the chance to enjoy the outdoors are highly valued.
"Good amount of random road ditches but not enough to keep it as interesting as I’d like."
Caden Johnson
"Palisades Reservoir is created by an earth-fill dam on the Snake River in eastern Idaho near the WY border. It was completed in 1957. It’s in a scenic valley with forested hillsides rising from the impounded water to the snowcapped mountains, which form the western background. The reservoir has about 70-miles of shoreline, on the east side, and six access roads are provided. Public use facilities include five campgrounds, vault style restrooms, five picnic areas, and six boat ramps. Fishing, motorized and non-motorized boating, are allowed and are popular activities on the reservoir. Swimming is also permitted. The dam is 270 ft. high and 2,100 ft. across. The water is about 20 feet deep, with the deepest water next to the dam. We drove the entire length of the reservoir."
Celeste Ruppelt
"Absolutely beautiful lake and scenic drive"
Jason Yoder
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Palisades Reservoir is accessible via several roads along its eastern shoreline, near the Idaho/Wyoming border. The drive itself is scenic, following the Snake River.
Driving the entire length of the reservoir is highly recommended for the best views and access to various points.
From Wyoming, you can head south through Hoback and follow the Snake River towards the Idaho border to reach the reservoir.
Road conditions can vary, especially outside of summer. It's advisable to check local road reports before your visit, particularly if traveling in the shoulder seasons.
Public transport options are very limited in this remote area. A personal vehicle is the most practical way to reach and explore Palisades Reservoir.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no general entrance fees for accessing the reservoir itself. However, day-use fees may apply at specific developed picnic areas or campgrounds.
Palisades Reservoir is generally accessible year-round, though facilities like campgrounds and boat ramps may have seasonal operating hours. Always check specific facility schedules.
Boating is permitted on Palisades Reservoir. Depending on the type of boat and your state of residence, you may need to comply with state boating regulations and potentially have a permit or registration.
Generally, pets are allowed in outdoor areas of national forests surrounding the reservoir, but they must be leashed. Always check specific campground or access point rules.
Yes, there are several campgrounds available around Palisades Reservoir, offering opportunities for overnight stays.
🎫 🎣 Fishing & Activities
Palisades Reservoir is known for trout fishing, though some visitors report varied success.
Absolutely! The reservoir is ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding, offering beautiful scenery and calm waters. 
Fishing can be done from various points along the shoreline or from a boat. Some visitors find success near the dam or in coves.
Swimming is permitted in Palisades Reservoir. Be aware of water temperatures, which can be cold even in summer.
Besides fishing and boating, you can enjoy scenic drives, picnicking, camping, and simply taking in the stunning mountain landscapes.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light for capturing the mountain and water reflections. Midday can also be stunning with clear blue skies.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a polarizing filter for water shots.
Pull-offs along the scenic drive offer numerous opportunities. Look for spots where the mountains dramatically meet the water.
Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and local restrictions within national forests. Always check current rules before flying.
The combination of clear blue water, surrounding forested hillsides, and snow-capped mountains creates a stunning backdrop for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Several campgrounds provide a fun, immersive experience where families can spend quality time together under the stars. The scenic drive also offers plenty of opportunities for short stops to stretch legs and enjoy the views. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and sun protection, as amenities can be spread out.🎣 Anglers and Fishermen
While success can vary, the experience of fishing amidst stunning mountain scenery is often a major draw.🚗 Road Trippers and Scenic Drivers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Boating and Water Sports
+1 The reservoir boasts approximately 70 miles of shoreline, providing plenty of room to explore. Several boat ramps are available, making it easy to launch your vessel. Remember to check water levels, as they can fluctuate, impacting access, especially for larger boats.Many visitors enjoy the boondocking opportunities near the reservoir, combining their love for the outdoors with the convenience of having their boat or paddleboard readily accessible.
This allows for extended stays and the chance to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. Whether you're seeking a peaceful paddle or an adventurous day of waterskiing, Palisades Reservoir offers a memorable experience for water enthusiasts.When planning your water sports adventure, consider the time of year. Summer months offer the warmest water temperatures and the highest water levels, ideal for most activities. However, early fall can also be beautiful with fewer crowds and stunning autumn colors reflected on the water. Always prioritize safety by wearing life jackets and being aware of changing weather conditions.
+1Fishing at Palisades Reservoir
While some visitors report varied success, the serene environment and stunning views often make the experience enjoyable regardless of the catch.Access points for fishing are plentiful, with six provided access roads leading to various spots along the 70-mile shoreline.
Even if the fish aren't biting, the act of fishing in such a beautiful setting can be incredibly rewarding. The surrounding mountains and the vastness of the reservoir provide a tranquil escape. Many visitors find that the overall ambiance and the chance to connect with nature are the true highlights of their fishing trip here.
Scenic Drives and Photography
For the best photographic opportunities, consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset when the light casts a warm glow on the landscape.
Wide-angle lenses are ideal for capturing the expansive vistas, while telephoto lenses can be useful for spotting wildlife. The clear blue waters, dramatic mountain backdrops, and changing skies offer endless possibilities for stunning shots.+1Many travelers recommend driving the entire length of the reservoir to fully appreciate its beauty and discover hidden coves and overlooks. This scenic drive is a key part of the Palisades Reservoir experience, offering a chance to immerse yourself in the natural splendor of southeastern Idaho and western Wyoming.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit