The breathtaking Anderson Ranch Reservoir is nestled like a shimmering jewel in the heart of Idaho’s reservoir network. Spanning the South Fork of the Boise River since 1950, this reservoir stands as a vital link providing water to the farms of Southwest Idaho. In addition to irrigation, it also serves as a source of hydroelectric power. Constructed in 1941 by the Bureau of Reclamation, the magnificent Anderson Ranch Dam was intended to control the spring floods that originate from the Smoky Mountains in the Sawtooth National Forest. Despite setbacks due to World War II’s resource scarcity, the dam’s completion was aided by the toil of interned Japanese-American laborers from the nearby Minidoka Relocation Center. Honoring their sacrifice during a dark period in American history, the Minidoka camp now stands as a national historic site, a testament to their invaluable contributions. Visitors to Anderson Ranch Reservoir today owe a debt of gratitude to these unsung heroes, without whom this marvelous reservoir may never have come to fruition.
Draped across 4,607.7 acres, the reservoir beckons adventurers with many opportunities. Campgrounds dot its Boise National Forest-managed shores, catering to various tastes from modern conveniences to rugged seclusion. Boating enthusiasts revel in the convenience of multiple launch ramps strung along the reservoir’s 50-mile circumference, indulging in water sports like swimming, water skiing, jet skiing, wakeboarding, and power boating. In adherence to Idaho’s stringent boating regulations, all but the most humble inflatable rafts must sport an Idaho Invasive Species sticker and the requisite licenses. While services are sparse on the reservoir itself, nearby businesses stand ready to sell bait, offer outfitter services, and cater to the needs of water-loving patrons. The surrounding expanse harbors a network of trails catering to hikers, bikers, and equestrians alike, offering a tapestry of year-round recreational activities. Snowmobiling emerges as a favored winter pursuit in the Anderson Ranch Recreation Area, granting enthusiasts access to an extensive 380-mile web of groomed trails crisscrossing breathtaking terrain. These trails also enchant cross-country skiers and snowshoers seeking an escape into pristine wilderness. With its scenic canyons and verdant forests, the reservoir lures brave adventurers to explore the rugged mountains or navigate the captivating riverside vistas. Anglers flock to Anderson Ranch Reservoir to test their mettle against its bountiful aquatic inhabitants—kokanee, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and various salmon species. Bull trout make their presence known but must be released promptly to safeguard their conservation. Below the dam, trout fishing is especially prolific, while winter transforms quiet coves into ice-fishing havens. With the vast water surface and diverse aquatic habitats, seeking the counsel of local fishing guides often proves invaluable in uncovering prime fishing spots and selecting effective baits and techniques. Quiet corners along the shoreline offer solace to canoeists and kayakers, inviting them to observe the abundant bird and wildlife species inhabiting the Recreation Area and Boise National Forest.
Beyond the water’s edge, glimpses of bear, deer, elk, pheasant, turkey, and an array of waterfowl bring nature enthusiasts closer to the wilderness’s beating heart, some harvestable with proper permits. For those eschewing camp life, the nearby town of Pine provides various lodging options, from seasonal rentals to cozy bed-and-breakfasts and lodges. A brief half-hour tour leads to the bustling hub of Mountain Home, teeming with traditional motels for a more urban respite. Boise, a mere 75 miles distant, invites visitors to explore its eclectic offerings, from the Basque Museum and Culture Center to the Old Idaho Penitentiary State Historic Site, World Center for Birds of Prey, Boise Zoo, and a plethora of historical and scientific attractions. A stay near Anderson Ranch Reservoir opens the gateway to day trips and excursions to local treasures, tempting newcomers to savor the region’s awe-inspiring panoramas and serene beauty. Seekers of tranquility may opt for private lodgings with panoramic reservoir vistas, fostering a yearning for a permanent sanctuary amidst the idyllic surroundings. Occasionally, real estate opportunities unfold in these pristine locales, catering to those eager for a seasonal retreat or vacation abode. Venturing into southwestern Idaho uncovers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a blend of fishing, hiking, boating, photography, and wildlife encounters. With its serene waters and lush surroundings, Anderson Ranch Reservoir promises a rejuvenating escape for all who seek solace in nature’s embrace. How about testing your luck against the reservoir’s wily trout?