Parma, Idaho, offers several distinct points of interest for a stay: Old Fort Boise offers a glimpse into the history of the Oregon Trail, while river access and trails in nearby Fort Boise WMA offer different experiences. The annual Old Fort Boise Days festival takes place in June. To plan your trip, you can first consider whether history, festival activities, walking trails, or water access are most important to you.
Old Fort Boise and the Oregon Trail
In 1834, the Hudson’s Bay Company built Old Fort Boise in competition with nearby Fort Hall. The fort later became an important supply station along the Oregon Trail. These two historical connections complement each other: the rivalry with Fort Hall explains why it was built, while its later role as a supply station explains its place on the Trail. A replica of the first Fort Boise still stands near the original site. For historical context, it is important to distinguish between the historic fort and the replica: the year 1834 refers to the fort’s construction; the replica still standing today is a separate structure.
Old Fort Boise Days in June
Old Fort Boise Days is a community tradition celebrated in Parma every June. The program includes a parade, a Lions Club breakfast, and a fair at Old Fort Boise Park. It also features a beauty pageant, art exhibits, and a historic car show called “Show and Shine.” Community festivities are joined by art and historic vehicles. Individual events may vary from year to year. If you want to plan your trip around the festival, check the dates and program for your travel dates.
River access and walking trails
The Fort Boise Site in Parma is designated as an Idaho Wildlife Management Area. There is a launch site for canoes, kayaks, and small boats at the site; take local conditions into account when planning. Nearby Fort Boise WMA offers a different focus: most trails within the area are designated hiking trails and can be explored on foot. Parts of the WMA are closed seasonally. Before your visit, check which areas will be accessible on your planned date.
For sports enthusiasts, there are at least five access points to the Boise River and Snake River in the vicinity of Parma. Since access options and conditions can change, check in advance which access point you plan to use and what conditions apply there. Martin Landing is another named point of interest: the nearby recreation area covers 60 acres and lies at the confluence of the Boise River, Owyhee River, and Snake River. Martin Landing is also an access point on the Idaho-Oregon Snake River Water Trail. When planning, it helps to distinguish these specific locations: the boat launch is at the Fort Boise Site, while Martin Landing is on the Water Trail mentioned above.
Drive-in theater and overnight planning
Parma Motor-Vu is a separate movie option: an open-air drive-in theater. If you plan to visit, check the schedule for your date, as showtimes may change.
At the RV park in Old Fort Boise Park, campsites are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis; reservations are not available. This is an important distinction when planning an overnight stay if you want to secure a campsite in advance. Before you arrive, check whether this policy is still in effect.
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