Idaho Field Trips for Homeschoolers

Finding things to do in Idaho with kids is easier than you thought. This page is full of day trip ideas around the Gem State. The best of all, we’ve compiled a list of places where you and your child will not only have fun, but there are tons of learning opportunities as well.

The first thing you should do is download this printable map of Idaho. It contains a star that highlights where the state capital is located. Next, read through our list of field trips in Idaho and have your child locate some of these important places on the map. You’ll also find free Time4Learning lesson tie-ins that you can download at the end of this post to help supplement your homeschool field trips. Please make sure to contact each site before you plan your visit, as COVID-19 may have impacted their hours of operations.

Homeschool Field Trips in Idaho’s Northern Region

• Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge, Bonners Ferry – Does your homeschooler love animals and love learning about them? If so, it may be worth it to check out, Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge. Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge provides habitat for more than 220 species of birds, 45 species of mammals, and 22 species of fish. This is a great way for your homeschooler to feel like an explorer. The entire family can enjoy a fun day of fishing, viewing wildlife and many other activities from sunrise to sunset.
• Bird Aviation Museum & Invention Center, Sagle – If your homeschooler is intrigued and fascinated by airplanes this museum is a must! Founded by Dr. Forrest Bird, inventor of the medical respirator, and his wife Pam in 2007 this museum will amaze you and your homeschooler with invention displays and flight exhibits.
• Bonner County History Museum, Sandpoint – This museum provides a great learning opportunity outside of the classroom. Museum exhibits give a historical snapshot dating back to the ice age floods, the early days of the Kalispel and Kootenai people. Students will enjoy school tours, scavenger hunts, and traveling trunks. Traveling trunks offer a fun learning experience such as, artifacts, maps, and other hands-on resources that provide insight on the history of Bonner County.
• Priest Lake, Coolin – Is your homeschooler learning about the Ice Age or learning about the local flora and fauna? This is a great place to visit with your kids to enjoy the outdoors while learning more about geography and earth’s changes throughout time. Make sure to go to Lionhead Natural Water Slides for some fun slipping and sliding!

Homeschool Field Trips in Idaho’s Eastern Region

• Idaho Potato Museum, Blackfoot – If you’re ready for an educational, fun and all things potato, the Idaho Potato Museum is the place to be. The museum is fun, informative and can be enjoyed by the entire family. You and your family will learn about the original potato planted in Idaho, you can even see the world’s largest Pringles potato chip. After all, Idaho is known for its world famous “Idaho potato”.
• Craters of the Moon, Arco – It’s time to take your geology on the road and head to Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve. Your homeschooler will get to climb a volcano and explore a lava tube cave all in an afternoon. A trip to Craters of the Moom will provide an out of this world experience that will never be forgotten.
• Yellowstone Bear World, Rexburg – Would your homeschooler like a ride on the wild side? If yes, it’s time for an adventure at Yellowstone Bear World’s drive-thru wildlife park. During your visit, you will be surrounded by the free-roaming wildlife of North America as you drive your personal vehicle through the park. You’ll see, Rocky Mountain Elk, Bison, White-tail Deer, Mule Deer, Rocky Mountain Goats, Moose, and of course American Black Bear and Grizzly Bear.
• Minnetonka Cave, St Charles – Have you been going over types of rock formations that occur due to accumulation of material deposited in different places in your science class? This place will allow your students to see what they’ve studied right in front of their eyes! Mesmerizing stalactites, stalagmites, and banded travertine. Bring your jackets and watch out for the bats!!

Homeschool Field Trips in Idaho’s Central Region

• Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, Kamiah – Best known for its wild character, you and your family can enjoy nature at is best. From waterfalls to wildlife, this national forest will captivate your mind with its beautiful scenery, 3 rivers, and forest. Not to mention, half of the forest is designated wilderness.
• Wilderness River Outfitters, Lemhi – Breakaway from the classroom and head out to a white water adventure the entire family can enjoy. There are several options to choose from, including, stunning rivers, canyons and whitewater so be sure to plan ahead.
• Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural and Educational Center, Salmon – The center sits on a 71 acre park and is best to visit during the summer months. Your family can enjoy taking a walk on the historical site and learn about the Lewis & Clark expedition, the first American expedition to cross the western portion of the United States.

Homeschool Field Trips in Idaho’s Western Region

• Zoo Boise, Boise – Let your homeschooler get up close and personal with the animals of a small town zoo. Starting with the African exhibit to the animals of Asia and even a farm, Zoo Boise is filled with fun and a living science facility that is home to over 300 animals from 100 various species.
• Lake Cascade State Park , Cascade – Enjoy a day with the family at Lake Cascade, Idaho’s 4th largest lake. Whether you decide on a picnic, hike, boating or camping, there is something for everyone along the 86 miles of shoreline with beautiful views of Lake Cascade.
• Eagle Island State Park, Eagle – Does your homeschooler enjoy bird watching. If so, this part is a must for bird lovers. Your homeschooler can enjoy learning and watching various bird species. The park also offers horseback riding, swimming and a water slide.
• The Black Cliffs, Boise – This range of towering columns is made of volcanic columnar basalt and is the ideal spot to take your child and enhance their science lessons. What can be better than studying about rock formation while trying to climb them yourself?