Camel's Back Park

Natural Features

Nestled in Boise's North End neighborhood, Camel's Back Park spans 11 acres of urban greenspace, taking its name from the distinctive hill at its center that, yes, actually resembles a camel's back. This natural landmark offers panoramic views of downtown Boise, the rolling Foothills, and the valley stretching all the way to the mountains. Fair warning: reaching these views requires climbing a pretty steep staircase, but the summit is worth the effort.

History

The park has been a Boise treasure since 1932, when Bernard Lemp generously donated the land to the city. Before the stairs were installed (for obvious safety reasons), locals have fond memories of the slightly chaotic tradition of sliding down the hillside on cardboard boxes and toboggans - a true Idaho childhood rite of passage.

Scenic trail winds alongside golden wildflowers on Camel's Back Trail

Photo: bgwashburn (CC BY 2.0)

Trails and Outdoor Activities

Beyond the iconic hill, Camel's Back is a gateway to a network of hiking and mountain biking trails that wind through the adjacent Hulls Gulch Reserve and connect to the broader Ridge to Rivers trail system. If you're in the mood for a casual stroll or looking to test your endurance, there's a trail with your name on it.

At the base of the hill, you'll find spacious grassy areas great for spreading out a picnic blanket, tossing a frisbee, or simply lounging with a good book. The park includes a sizable playground for the kiddos, tennis courts, and a sand volleyball court that gets busy on sunny weekends.

Since 2015, fitness enthusiasts have enjoyed the outdoor gym with its variety of exercise equipment. This donation from a local company allows for workouts in the fresh air and natural surroundings.

Panoramic view of Boise cityscape from the park's elevated lookout point

Photo: bgwashburn (CC BY 2.0)

Family-Friendly Features

The playground area is a hit with families, featuring various structures that keep children of all ages entertained. The bonded rubber surface underneath means parents can worry a little less about tumbles and falls. On weekends, the area becomes a buzzing social scene for the under-10 crowd.

Four-legged family members are welcome too, however they need to stay leashed according to city rules. The park makes for a wonderful outing with your pup, whether you're tackling the trails or just relaxing on the grass.

You'll also find clean restrooms on-site - a small but crucial detail when you're planning to spend several hours exploring with family.

Seasonal Activities

During winter, parts of the park transform into impromptu sledding areas, however the main hill typically remains a hiking route. Each season brings its own charm to Camel's Back, with autumn offering particularly stunning views as the foliage puts on its annual color show.

Community Significance

Camel's Back is a place where nature and urban life meet. It hosts various community gatherings throughout the year, including the Hyde Park Street Fair each September.

The park is within walking distance of shops and restaurants in the Hyde Park district, making it convenient to visit when in this historic Boise neighborhood. You can easily combine a morning hike with an afternoon coffee or lunch at one of the nearby local spots.