Nampa’s History with Recreation

Nampa, Idaho has a long history of recreation dating back to its early days as a farming community. In the late 1800s, residents would gather in the town square for picnics and community events. As the town grew, so did its recreational offerings.

One of the earliest recreational facilities in Nampa was the Natatorium, a public swimming pool that opened in 1911. The Natatorium was a popular destination for families and provided relief from the hot summer temperatures. It closed in the 1960s and was eventually replaced by the Nampa Recreation Center, which opened in 1995.

Throughout the early 20th century, Nampa's parks and recreational areas expanded. Lake Lowell, located just south of the city, was created in the 1900s as a reservoir for irrigation. The lake quickly became a popular destination for boating, fishing, and camping. In the 1920s, the city developed its first municipal golf course, which is still in operation today.

In the 1950s and 1960s, the city built several parks and playgrounds, including Lions Park and West Park. The city also developed the Nampa Recreation Program, which offered a variety of sports and activities for residents of all ages.

Today, Nampa has a wide range of recreational facilities and programs. In addition to the Nampa Recreation Center, the city has several community centers, sports fields, and parks. Lake Lowell is still a popular destination for boating and fishing, and the city has several other waterways for outdoor activities. The city also hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, including the Snake River Stampede Rodeo and the Nampa Festival of the Arts.