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 one of only two public observatories in Idaho. Feel free to climb but no vehicles are allowed on the dunes. A visitor center offers information on birds of prey, insects, fossils, wildlife and the sand dunes. A variety of gift items are available for purchase. Two cabins are available for rent. Also 82 serviced with W/E and 16 standard sites.
The Park Today
Current Conditions at Bruneau Dunes State Park, June 28, 2009
All park facilities are open for the 2009 camping season and the weather is great for summer camping. Daytime temperatures are in the mid-80's or low 90's with evening temperatures in the 60's. This weekend the night skies were finally clear enough for sky viewing at our Observatory. You won’t want to miss this season at the dunes. Bring a kite! Oh, and also insect repellent.
Broken Wheel and Eagle Cove campgrounds are in full operation. Camp hosts are on the grounds if you have questions upon arrival. Irrigation season has started at Bruneau Dunes State Park. Campgrounds are watered via an automated system. So please check with staff and read posted signs as to the watering schedule.
The Observatory is open for public viewings on Friday and Saturday nights. The fun begins, just before sundown, with solar observation through a specially designed scope. At 7:00 pm a space-themed movie will be shown followed, at 9:30 pm, by a 45-minute audiovisual program in the Steele-Reese Education Center. Sky viewing, through a variety of telescopes, takes place until midnight. This opportunity to see far-flung wonders of the universe isn’t something you’ll have every day. There is a $3 per person viewing fee--children under 6 are free.
Interpretive programs performed by park staff on a variety of topics are available to your social or school group. Topics related to the historical or natural features that abound here at Bruneau Dunes such as; dune ecology, environmental education, native species--both plant and animal--or invasive species programs are gladly presented by park staff. Call the park at 366-7919 to make arrangements.
See you at the dunes!
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.
Bruneau color map
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. The Observatory is open to the public on Friday and Saturday nights only, weather permitting. Check the Online Calendar for hours of operation.
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. Bruneau Equestrian trail map
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.