Photography Locations in the Treasure Valley
Popular & Accessible Spots for Your Next Session
Welcome to Photography By Amy Thomas Photography Studio
If you're looking for a spot that's easy to find, beautifully scenic, and family-friendly—this is the list for you.
These are the most popular public photography locations I use across the Treasure Valley: parks, rivers, walkable downtowns, and iconic local landmarks that photograph beautifully year-round.
✨ Looking for something more private or unique?
I also have access to exclusive locations through relationships with local landowners, tucked-away natural spots, and private properties that offer more privacy and creative freedom.
These are available only to my Portrait Pass Subscribers as part of their elevated session experience.
Parks & Natural Areas
Boise
Kathryn Albertson Park - 1001 S Americana Blvd. Boise, ID
Why it’s great: Tons of shade, beautiful mature trees, ponds, and stone paths. Bonus: Very stroller- and elderly-friendly with easy parking. Drawbacks: Gets super busy on weekends, can be hard to find parking; early closures in winter.
Cottonwood Creek Trailhead-750 Mountain Cove Rd. Boise, ID
Why it’s great: Peaceful, wooded trails with creek access and foothill views. Bonus: Feels remote without being far from downtown. Drawbacks: Uneven ground; limited parking; bugs in summer.
Lucky Peak Roadside Ridge Hwy 21 below the Black Cliffs, Boise, ID
Why it’s great: Cliffside views and panoramic grasslands.
Drawbacks: No natural shade; rocky terrain. Small level one hike up the hill.
Eagle
Reid Merrill Park 637 E Shore Dr, Eagle, ID
Why it’s great: Riverside space with rolling hills, open lawn, and trees.
Drawbacks: Some mud near water after rain; occasional mosquitoes.
Star
Star River Walk 1000 S Main St, Star, ID
Why it’s great: Quiet riverside with walking paths and mature shade.
Drawbacks: Small parking lot; fills quickly on nice days.
Kuna/ Melba
Kuna Park 123 S Swan Falls Rd, Kuna, ID
Why it’s great: Quiet riverside with walking paths and some shade.
Drawbacks: Small parking lot; fills quickly on nice days.
Celebration Park 5000 Victory Ln, Melba, ID
Why it’s great: Lava rock formations and grassy banks along the water.
Drawbacks: Little shade; hot in summer.
Meridian
Julius M. Kleiner Park- 1900 N Records Ave, Meridian, ID
Why it’s great: Clean, wide open lawns with water features and tree lines.
Drawbacks: Can be crowded on weekends; closes at dusk.
Ontario
Ontario State Rec Park 3900 SW 4th Ave, Ontario, OR
Why it’s great: River views, open grass, and shaded paths.
Drawbacks: Can get buggy in summer; muddy after storms.
Payette
Payette River Park 405 S 12th St, Payette, ID
Why it’s great: Quiet, tree-lined riverside with open lawns.
Drawbacks: Limited parking; seasonal bugs.
Downtown & Urban Vibes
Boise
Downtown Boise 8th Street, Capitol Blvd, Grove Plaza, anywhere downtown
Why it’s great: Historic architecture, alleys, murals, and vintage storefronts.
Drawbacks: Can be busy with traffic and events; patchy shade.
Freak Alley 8th St between Idaho & Bannock
Why it’s great: Iconic graffiti and murals—great for bold, creative sessions.
Drawbacks: Crowded and narrow; not ideal if you don't like the city. Parking can be tough.
Anne Frank Memorial & Oregon Trail Bridge 770 S 8th St, Boise, ID
Why it’s great: Peaceful monument space with nearby bridge, river, and trails.
Drawbacks: Limited space; can be busy. Construction happening near by. Traffic on the greenbelt nearby.
Ontario
Ontario State Rec Park 3900 SW 4th Ave, Ontario, OR
Why it’s great: River views, open grass, and shaded paths.
Drawbacks: Can get buggy in summer; muddy after storms.
Payette
Downtown Payette Main St & 7th Ave, Payette, ID
Why it’s great: Small-town charm, historic storefronts, and cozy brickwork.
Drawbacks: Narrow sidewalks and midday sun, near busy roads.
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