Southern Idaho’s Celebration Park boat ramp to be reopened for recreator access

Starting today, Southern Idaho’s Celebration Park boat ramp will be reopened with full access now that a $600,000 improvement project is complete.

The Phase I Boater Improvements project includes new accessibility for people with disabilities. It also includes parking lot and pathway improvements, as well as a new boat ramp, dock and gangways, according to a Canyon County press release.

The project was funded, in part, by a $377,638 Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation Waterways Improvement Fund grant.

Coming later this summer when the water is lower, phase II of the project will begin in August. Those improvements will continue to improve and protect the motorized boating facility in the park, the press release said.

“Work will consist of redesign and construction of an armored barb to protect the Phase I boat ramp and dock improvements and prevent river scour and erosion,” the press release said. “A $275,000 project, it is funded in part by a $265,540 Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation Waterways Improvement Fund grant award.”

Construction of the final phase is expected to be completed this fall. Updates will be posted on the Canyon County website at www.canyoncounty.id.gov/parks.

“For over three decades, this boat ramp has functioned as a boater access for the Snake River downstream of Swam Falls Dam, including river access within the Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey Conservation Area,” Canyon County Parks Director Nicki Schwend said in the release. “This boater access spot has been used by local fishing guides, jet boat groups, law enforcement, and the public for decades. This project includes an upgraded, ADA-accessible design that will help us better meet the needs of all boat user groups. We’re excited for this project and for all the continued improvements happening at Celebration Park.”

For questions about the project or for construction updates, call Canyon County Parks at 208-454- 6884 or call the Celebration Park visitor center at 208-455-6022.