ISCI is the oldest operating prison in the state, with a capacity of 1,446, with special-use beds for infirmary, outpatient mental health, and geriatric residents.

Its reception and diagnostic unit (RDU) serves as the entry point for all men entering Idaho's prison system.

[3][4][5] The institution is surrounded by a double fence, patrolled by sentry dogs, with six operational towers to monitor perimeter security and resident movement.

The facility includes a religious activities center, a fully-equipped recreation facility with two large tracks and ballfields, an accredited school, a large industrial workspace for vocational rehabilitation and job training programs, and a fully functioning medical clinic with 28 inpatient beds.

The goal of the program was to prepare the dogs for adoption, as well as providing therapeutic opportunities for the participating residents.