Idaho families are invited to a special event in North Idaho as part of the 2025 Idaho State Parks Foster Family Passport Program. Fostering Family Adventures at Farragut State Park will be Saturday, Aug. 30, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Participants will meet at the Museum at the Brig, 13350 East Highway 54, Athol, ID 83801.
Located on the southern tip of Lake Pend Oreille, Farragut State Park is rich with natural beauty and history. This event is designed to bring families together for a day of outdoor fun, exploration, and meaningful connection. While it’s focused around supporting Idaho’s foster, kinship, and adoptive families, all are welcome.
Activities will include:
- Exploration at the Museum at the Brig, where families will find authentic military artifacts, interactive displays, and stories that bring Idaho’s wartime history to life.
- Guided nature hikes. Easy, family-friendly trails will offer opportunities to spot wildlife, learn about native plants, and enjoy views.
- Fishing fun for beginners. A casting station will let kids and adults learn how to cast a line and try their hand at reeling in a fish—with guidance from experienced anglers.
- Native fish trailer from the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. Families can see live fish up close, learn about Idaho’s aquatic ecosystems, and discover conservation efforts.
- Cultural heritage activities with the Coeur d’Alene Tribe. Families can engage with the region’s rich tribal history through storytelling, crafts, and cultural demonstrations.
“Foster and kinship families play an important role in the well-being of children across Idaho,” said Department of Health and Welfare Family and Community Partnerships Administrator Laura Denner. “We’re honored to celebrate them through events like this that give families a chance to connect with one another, enjoy Idaho’s incredible outdoor places, and create lasting memories through community.”
Families are encouraged to dress for the weather and wear shoes suitable for outdoor play. Don’t forget sunscreen and bug spray. Light snacks and drinks will be provided until supplies run out. Families may also bring a blanket or picnic lunch. Limited tables are available.
“Farragut State Park is one of Idaho’s treasured places full of natural beauty and unique history, and we’re excited to welcome foster, kinship, and adoptive families for this special day,” Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation Director Susan Buxton said. “This program highlights the strength of Idaho families while encouraging everyone to explore the outdoors, learn together, and experience the history and beauty of our state parks.”
Fostering Family Adventures is a cooperative effort spearheaded by the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation, Department of Health and Welfare, Idaho Business for the Outdoors, and Regence BlueShield of Idaho. Additional sponsors and contributors include the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, Scheels, and the Idaho Potato Commission.
The event is designed for foster families, but all families are welcome. Follow this link to register.
Media
Please RSVP if covering the event in-person. Contact Alyssa Leavitt, Parks and Recreation, at Alyssa.Leavitt@idpr.idaho.gov or 208-631-7536, or AJ McWhorter, DHW, at AJ.McWhorter@dhw.idaho.gov or 208-830-8047.
Video and photos
View broadcast-quality video and photos of what Foster Families will experience at Farragut State Park. Visit the Idaho Family Passport Dropbox for downloads.
Idaho needs foster parents
If you’ve ever considered fostering, know that your willingness to offer a home—even for one child for one season—can change a child’s life forever. For more information, call 211 or visit the Department of Health and Welfare’s foster care page. You could be the difference that turns a story of struggle into one of hope and belonging.
Contacts:
Alyssa Leavitt, Parks and Recreation, Alyssa.Leavitt@idpr.idaho.gov
AJ McWhorter, Department of Health and Welfare, AJ.McWhorter@dhw.idaho.gov
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.
The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Idaho through outdoor recreation and resource stewardship. Learn more at parksandrecreation.idaho.gov.