Twin Lakes Idaho, located in Kootenai County, is a natural freshwater lake that is dammed and made up of two bodies of water – the upper and lower lakes. The upper lake spans across 500 acres with a maximum depth of 20 feet, while the lower lake, which is connected by a narrow channel, has a surface area of 350 acres and a maximum depth of 60 feet. The lake’s dam, owned by the Twin Lakes Rathdrum Flood Control District 17, was constructed in 1909 and is used to regulate water levels for irrigation and drinking water.
Facilities and Amenities at Twin Lakes Idaho Beach
Twin Lakes, Upper has facilities available for public use, including a boat launch and restrooms. However, there are no water or electricity hookups available for camping or RVs. Group camping sites are available for reservation from April through September, and there are 57 paid campsites in total. It is recommended to check the website for reservation and watercraft inspection information.
Fishing Opportunities at Twin Lakes Idaho Beach
Twin Lakes is known for its excellent bass and trout fishing. The Idaho Fish and Game website provides fishing rules and information for the lake. Recommended game fish for Twin Lakes include bluegill, pumpkinseed, sunfish, largemouth bass, yellow perch, rainbow trout, and white crappie. The lake has been stocked with rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, and domestic kamloops in the past.
Birdwatching at Twin Lakes Idaho Beach
Twin Lakes is a popular spot for birdwatching, with up to 100 bird species viewed, including bald eagle, Canada goose, grebes, white pelicans, diving ducks, trumpeter swan, and bullock’s oriole. The Idaho Birding Trail Interactive Map and PDF provide more information on birding in the area.
Location and Directions to Twin Lakes Idaho Beach
Twin Lakes is located approximately 15 miles northwest of Preston, Idaho. The physical address is 9870 W Twin Lakes Road, Rathdrum, ID 83858.
Hours and Fees at Twin Lakes Idaho Beach
The hours for Twin Lakes, Upper are not specified, but it is closed from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m.. There are no admission fees for Twin Lakes, Upper, but there may be fees for camping or other amenities.
Contact Information for Twin Lakes Idaho Beach
For more information or to make reservations, contact the Twin Lakes Canal Company at (208) 852-0415 or the North Kootenai Water and Sewer District at (208) 765-4455.
Additional Information about Twin Lakes Idaho Beach
- Twin Lakes remains chilly throughout most of the year, but this does not deter visitors and residents from enjoying its waters and beautiful surroundings.
- Coeur d’Alene National Forest is located a few miles to the east, and Mt. Spokane State Park is to the west, making Twin Lakes a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
- The lake’s dam, owned by the Twin Lakes Rathdrum Flood Control District 17, was constructed in 1909 and is used to regulate water levels for irrigation and drinking water.
References
- Kootenai County. (n.d.). Twin Lakes, Upper. Retrieved from https://www.kcgov.us/Facilities/Facility/Details/Twin-Lakes-Upper-46
- Idaho High Country. (n.d.). Twin Lakes and Campground. Retrieved from https://idahohighcountry.org/item/twin-lakes/
- Lake-Link Inc. (n.d.). Twin Lakes, Idaho | Lake, Fishing & Travel Info. Retrieved from https://www.lake-link.com/idaho-lakes/kootenai/twin-lakes/313424/
- Idaho Fish and Game. (n.d.). Twin Lakes Reservoir. Retrieved from https://idfg.idaho.gov/ifwis/fishingPlanner/water/1119718421938
- The Idaho Washington Aquifer Collaborative. (n.d.). Twin Lakes Idaho. Retrieved from https://www.iwac.us/protect-our-waters/inland-empire-lakes/twin-lakes-idaho/