Parma: Old Fort Boise and River Access

Parma, Idaho, offers several distinct points to consider when planning a trip: Old Fort Boise Days in June, the history of the Oregon Trail, and river access and hiking trails in the area. If you’re looking for a hotel, you can plan your stay around whether a specific June date is important or whether you’re mainly interested in historic sites, river access, and hiking trails.

Old Fort Boise and Its History

Old Fort Boise was built in 1834 by the Hudson’s Bay Company as a competitor to nearby Fort Hall. The fort later became an important supply station on the Oregon Trail. A replica of the first Fort Boise still stands near the original site. To distinguish the time periods, you can consider the fort’s construction and historic role as a supply station separately from the replica that remains today.

Old Fort Boise Days in June

Old Fort Boise Days takes place in Parma every June and is a recurring community tradition. The program includes a parade, a Lions Club breakfast, a fair at Old Fort Boise Park, a queen contest, art exhibits, and a classic car show called “Show and Shine.” Events may vary from year to year. If you’re traveling for a specific event, check the exact dates and program for your travel year.

River Access and Trails

Athletes have at least five access points to the Boise and Snake Rivers in the Parma area. At the Fort Boise Site in Parma, there is a launch point for canoes, kayaks, and small boats. The Fort Boise Site is designated as an Idaho Wildlife Management Area; conditions at the site apply when using the launch point.

At nearby Fort Boise WMA, most trails within the area are designated hiking trails and can be explored on foot. Parts of the WMA are seasonally closed. If you plan to hike, check which areas are seasonally closed before your visit.

Martin Landing is near Parma and is a 60-acre recreation area at the confluence of the Boise, Owyhee, and Snake Rivers. It is also an access point on the Idaho-Oregon Snake River Water Trail. The focus differs depending on what you’re planning: Fort Boise Site offers the specifically named water launch point, while Martin Landing is a recreation area at the confluence and an access point to the water trail. Conditions on the water trail may change; check them if you plan to use it.

Drive-In Theater and RV Park

Parma Motor-Vu is an outdoor drive-in theater. If you’re planning a visit for a particular evening, check the schedule, as dates may change.

For travelers with recreational vehicles, an important rule at the RV park in Old Fort Boise Park is that campsites are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, with no reservations. As this policy may change, confirm it before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Nampa, Caldwell.

For the broader travel overview: Canyon.