Beaver Bay Beach

Beaver Bay Beach is one of the more idyllic spots to swim in the Coeur d'Alene area. A part of the much larger Farragut State Park, the beach is protected from Lake Pend Oreille by a narrow spit, and its waters are much shallower and warmer than the larger lake. Across the spit sits Idlewilde Bay, the southwestern arm of Lake Pend Oreille. On hot days swimmers can choose to use either body of water, both of which are easily accessible from the spit. Anglers are also regulars at Beaver Bay Beach. Pets, glass containers, and hard bottom boats such as canoes and kayaks are not allowed at Beaver Bay Beach.

Beaver Bay Beach is easily accessed by road from the Gilmore Campground or by walking the Beaver Bay Shoreline Trail from nearby Whitetail Campground. A parking area with nice restroom facilities is located just up the road from the beach.

Continue on the path west of Beaver Bay Beach and you will reach Buttonhook Bay, another spot worth visiting for a swim or to enjoy a beautiful sunset.

Farragut State Park is a large complex with seven campgrounds and trails that link various parts of the park. During the busy summer season youth groups make use of the park, but the facilities remain open to other visitors year round. It was once a World War II naval training facility, where submarines made use of the depths of Lake Pend Oreille. Farragut State Park was named after David Farragut, the first admiral of the U.S. Navy, who was appointed during the Civil War. It became a state park in 1965.