The tallest single-structured sand dune in North America rises to 470 feet high
above small lakes in the high desert south of Mountain Home. The state park
includes desert, dune, prairie, lake and marsh habitat with opportunities to
observe nocturnal species. Activities include fishing, birdwatching, camping,
hiking, swimming and viewing the stars at Idaho's only public observatory. Feel
free to climb but no vehicles are allowed on the dunes. A visitor center offers
information on all birds of prey, insects, fossils, wildlife and sand dunes and
gift items for purchase. Two cabins are available for rent. Also 82 serviced
with W/E and 16 standard sites.
Location: Bruneau, ID
Southwestern Idaho, 18 miles SW of Mountain Home
Mailing Address
27608 Sand Dunes Road
Mountain Home, ID 83647-5084
Phone: (208) 366-7919
Fax: (208) 366-2844
The Park Today
Come play in the sand. Bring your horse, bring your kite, bring your kids. All
outside water has been turned off for the season. Observatory open until
November 11, 2206.
Desert Habitat
The park contains lake, marsh, desert, prairie and dune habitats. Since most
desert wildlife is nocturnal, early morning and late evening are the best times
for spotting the park’s inhabitants. However, a sharp eye often is rewarded with
a daytime glimpse of lizards and rabbits, or raptors such as owls, hawks and
eagles. Look for tracks in the sand. There is no hunting in the park—except with
cameras and binoculars. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the dunes.
The Lakes
The small lakes at the foot of the dunes provide an excellent bass and bluegill
fishery. Sport fishing from non-motorized boats, canoes, rubber rafts and float
tubes is a popular activity.
Trails
Unlock the mysteries of the desert on Bruneau Dunes five-mile hiking trail.
Experience breathtaking views that you will never forget. Print a trail map and
bring it along.
The Observatory
The Bruneau Dunes Observatory invites you to look at the stars. Take advantage
of a unique opportunity to see the night sky like you never have before.
Visitors will watch a short orientation program and then have a chance to survey
the heavens through the observatory’s collection of telescopes.
Interested in current weather conditions at the Bruneau Observatory? Click here.
Camping
Bruneau Dunes has one of the longest camping seasons in Idaho's system. Campers
often start coming in March and continue to enjoy the park's warm weather late
into the fall. Shade trees and shelters are abundant in the campground. A new
group camp area with shelter and 50 sites has been added. Two camping cabins are
also available for rent in the park.
Equestrian
A facility for day-use and overnight camping is available.
Nature Store
Off the beaten path, the Nature Store features a variety of unique items. The
souvenirs and educational materials range from kites to 3-D puzzles. You'll find
area geology books, made in Idaho silver jewelry, scorpion paperweights,
stargazing astronomical paraphernalia and much more.
We ship orders with payment in cash, check, money-orders, and/or credit card.
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