In December 2006, The Nature Conservancy transferred Thousand Springs Preserve to the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation. The gift includes 300 acres consisting of Ritter Island, two miles of riverfront and the scenic springs and falls of the area, located along the Middle Snake River near Hagerman.

The Conservancy owned Ritter Island since 1986, and has managed it as Thousand Springs Preserve.

The Conservancy's goal in the Thousand Springs area was to protect the springs and the unique wildlife they support. The scenic site has been a popular recreation area and many visitors have expressed an interest in touring the historic buildings.

By donating the proeprty to IDaho to manage as a state park, the Conservancy will ensure the continued protection of the springs and wildlife habitat, while at the same time providing the public with what it wants: more access and interpretive facilities for the history and nature of the island.

The annual festival held the last weekend of September on the island will continue to be held.

At the announcement, then Governor Jim Risch applauded this gift as a legacy for future generations, and said, "The State of Idaho is a better place for having The Nature Conservancy here." Current Governor Butch Otter called it "one of the finest gifts ever received in our state's history."

To do: Future recreational opportunities will be managed by the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation. Please contact the department at 208-837-4505 for current visitor opportunities.

Facilities: The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation will manage the property as its newest state park.

Directions: Drive on I-84 South towards Twin Falls. Take Exit 155 (Wendell), about 100 miles from Boise. After exiting, take a right and drive for three miles. Take a left onto 1500 E and drive for 2.5 miles, then turn right onto 3200 S. Take this road for two miles. You will see a sign at the end of the road. Turn left at the sign, followed by a quick right. Signs will point to parking.