The tallest sand dune rises 470 feet 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 campsites with W/E and 31 standard sites. The Equestrian Area provides facilities for visitors to camp with their horses and there is a 9-mile riding trail around the park.
The Park Today
Current Conditions at Bruneau Dunes State Park, February 19, 2012
Migrating waterfowl are moving through the Bruneau area and their stopover on the small dunes lakes is a chance to see many species up close. A variety of geese, puddle and diving ducks can all be seen daily, and you may see swans. Coyotes are heard howling and barking to each other every evening.
The PARK is OPEN every day and there is a $5 per vehicle entrance fee. (Campers pay camping fees instead of the entrance fee.) This week the Visitor Center is open on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.
Bring a snow saucer. You can use the dunes for sledding every day of the year.
Our campgrounds are OPEN for winter camping with reduced camping fees. WATER is only available at the Equestrian campground, but all campgrounds have vault toilets. ELECTRICITY is ON at all RV sites. Our two camper cabins are reservable all winter.
The OBSERVATORY is closed for the season and is expected to re-open on March 16, 2012.
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 six-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 from mid-March through mid-October on Friday and Saturday nights only, weather permitting. For presentation start time, call (208)366-7919, or check the kiosk when you arrive at the park. Cost for the program is $3 per person. Children under 6 years old are free. 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. Two camping cabins are also available for rent in the park.
Equestrian
A facility for day-use and overnight camping is available including a group shelter and two corrals. 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 also find books about Idaho History and travel, gifts and souvenirs made in Idaho, scorpion bracelets, stargazing guides and much more.