This magnificent trunk stream flows 66 miles across southeastern Idaho, through high mountain valleys, rugged canyons, and broad flood plains to its confluence with the Henry's Fork near Menan Buttes. Since 1985, the river has been eligible for inclusion in the nation's Wild and Scenic River System.
The South Fork supports the largest riparian cottonwood gallery forest in the West and is among the most unique and diverse ecosystems in Idaho. It is also home to 126 bird species, including 21 raptors, meriting a "National Important Bird Area" designation. The river also supports the largest native cutthroat fishery outside of Yellowstone National Park. The corridor is also home for an impressive array of other wildlife including moose, deer, elk, mountain goats, mountain lions, black bears, bobcats, coyotes, river otter, beaver, fox, and mink.
Among recreationists throughout the country, the South Fork is known as a premier blue ribbon trout fishery, and was selected as the host site for the 1997 World Fly-Fishing Championship. More than 300,000 visitors each year enjoy fishing, camping, hiking, and boating.
There are 10 developed boat access sites, three developed campgrounds, numerous dispersed sites, and a number of private facilities along this stretch of river. Nearby BLM boat launch sites include Conant, Byington and Lorenzo. For more information and a full list of boat access sites on the South Fork, click HERE.
--U.S. Dept. of the Interior/Bureau of Land Management
www.blm.gov
