Cities and Towns in Boundary County, Idaho
Founded in 1915, Boundary County is one of 44 counties in the state of Idaho. Historically, Boundary County was formed from Bonner County. The city of Bonners Ferry is the county seat. With FIPS code of 21, Boundary County has a population of 12,561 and area of 1,269 square miles (3,287 km²).
List of all cities in Boundary County, ID alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Bonners Ferry, ID | 83805 | 208 |
Copeland, ID | 83805 | 208 |
Eastport, ID | 83826 | 208 |
Moyie Springs, ID | 83845 | 208 |
Naples, ID | 83847 | 208 |
Porthill, ID | 83853 | 208 |
Major Cities and Towns in Boundary County, Idaho
Bonners Ferry
Area and Population
- Area: 2.61 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,543
- Zip Codes: 83805
- Latitude: 48.6919° N
- Longitude: 116.3160° W
Location and History
Bonners Ferry, the county seat of Boundary County, is located in the northernmost part of Idaho, near the Canadian border. The town was founded in the late 19th century and named after Edwin Bonner, a ferry operator who established a key crossing on the Kootenai River for miners heading to British Columbia. The town quickly grew as a transportation and trade center, supporting the influx of miners and settlers to the region. Bonners Ferry’s economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, timber, and trade, with the Kootenai River playing a vital role in its development. Today, Bonners Ferry is known for its historic downtown, scenic beauty, and as a gateway to outdoor recreation in the surrounding mountains and forests.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bonners Ferry is served by Boundary County School District, with Bonners Ferry High School and Valley View Elementary School being the main educational institutions. The town is home to several notable landmarks, including the Boundary County Museum, which offers exhibits on the area’s history and culture, and the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for birdwatching and wildlife observation. The historic downtown area, with its preserved buildings and local shops, reflects the town’s rich history and community spirit. Additionally, the Moyie Springs Hydro Dam, located nearby, is an important landmark that provides hydroelectric power to the region.
Moyie Springs
Area and Population
- Area: 0.78 square miles
- Population: Approximately 732
- Zip Codes: 83845
- Latitude: 48.7270° N
- Longitude: 116.1832° W
Location and History
Moyie Springs is a small town located east of Bonners Ferry, along the Moyie River in Boundary County. The town was established in the early 20th century, primarily as a logging community, with the Moyie River providing a natural transportation route for timber. The town’s name is derived from the French word “mouillée,” meaning “wet,” a reference to the area’s abundant waterways. Moyie Springs has retained its strong ties to the timber industry, which continues to be a significant part of the local economy. The town’s location near the Moyie River and the surrounding forests makes it a picturesque and peaceful community with access to a wealth of natural resources.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Moyie Springs is part of the Boundary County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Bonners Ferry. The town is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, with the nearby Moyie River offering excellent fishing, rafting, and hiking experiences. One of the key landmarks in the area is the Moyie River Canyon Bridge, a stunning steel arch bridge that spans the Moyie River and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, the town’s proximity to the Kootenai National Forest provides residents and visitors with access to extensive trails, wildlife, and scenic vistas.
Naples
Area and Population
- Area: Not formally incorporated; rural community
- Population: Approximately 1,600 (includes surrounding areas)
- Zip Codes: 83847
- Latitude: 48.6231° N
- Longitude: 116.3915° W
Location and History
Naples is an unincorporated community located south of Bonners Ferry in Boundary County. The area was settled in the late 19th century and named after Naples, Italy, likely by early settlers who were reminded of the scenic beauty of the region. Naples developed as a small agricultural community, with farming and ranching being the primary economic activities. The community has remained rural and relatively undeveloped, with a strong focus on preserving its natural environment and agricultural heritage. Naples serves as a quiet residential area for those seeking a rural lifestyle in close proximity to the amenities of Bonners Ferry.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Naples is served by the Boundary County School District, with Naples Elementary School being the main educational institution in the area. The community is known for its rural charm and natural beauty, with the nearby Selkirk Mountains providing a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. One of the key landmarks in the area is the McArthur Lake Wildlife Management Area, which offers opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and exploring the diverse ecosystems of northern Idaho. The peaceful setting and close-knit community make Naples an attractive location for those looking to experience the tranquility of rural life.
Eastport
Area and Population
- Area: Not formally incorporated; border community
- Population: Approximately 100 (includes surrounding areas)
- Zip Codes: 83826
- Latitude: 48.9999° N
- Longitude: 116.1836° W
Location and History
Eastport is a small, unincorporated border community located at the northern tip of Boundary County, right on the Canada-United States border. The town was established as a port of entry in the early 20th century, serving as a critical crossing point for goods and travelers moving between the U.S. and Canada. Eastport has historically been a small but significant community, with its economy centered around border trade, customs, and transportation. The community remains one of the key border crossings in Idaho, facilitating international commerce and travel.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Eastport does not have its own schools, with students typically attending schools in nearby Bonners Ferry. The community’s primary landmark is the Eastport Border Crossing, a vital port of entry between the United States and Canada that handles a significant amount of commercial traffic. The surrounding area is known for its pristine natural environment, with the nearby Selkirk Mountains offering opportunities for hiking, skiing, and exploring the wilderness. Eastport’s location makes it a unique community, serving as a gateway between two countries while maintaining a quiet, remote atmosphere.