How do I access Buttermilk?

Buttermilk is a public boat ramp in Idaho. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Buttermilk?

Buttermilk supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Buttermilk?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, restrooms. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Buttermilk?

The best time to paddle at Buttermilk is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Buttermilk?

Water conditions at Buttermilk include calm, sheltered.

Is Buttermilk good for beginners?

Yes, Buttermilk is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Lush green forest and a shimmering lake.

Photo by Zach Kessinger on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

ReservoirCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingDockRestrooms

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Buttermilk

Macks Inn, ID · Boat Ramp · Public

Buttermilk is a public boat ramp on Henrys Fork - Island Park Reservoir near Macks Inn, Idaho. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Reservoir

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Reservoir access at Buttermilk near Macks Inn, Idaho. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Buttermilk sits on Henrys Fork - Island Park Reservoir in Idaho, giving paddlers access to miles of reservoir shoreline.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. Mountain waterways in the Rockies run cold and clear, fed by snowmelt and alpine runoff.

Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and dock and restrooms.

Buttermilk sits about 5 min from Macks Inn, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm reservoir waters make Buttermilk ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•The upper arms of reservoirs are often calmer than the main body.
•Bring extra sunscreen — reservoirs offer little shade on the water.
•Watch for submerged stumps and debris, especially at lower water levels.
•Early morning and late evening are prime times for calm water and fishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Buttermilk?: Buttermilk is a public boat ramp in Idaho. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Buttermilk?: Buttermilk supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Buttermilk?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, restrooms. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Buttermilk?: The best time to paddle at Buttermilk is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Buttermilk?: Water conditions at Buttermilk include calm, sheltered.
Is Buttermilk good for beginners?: Yes, Buttermilk is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 44.4284, -111.4237