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 observatory's in Idaho. 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.
The Park Today
July 12 Centennial Celebration at Bruneau Dunes: 8am-12 midnight
• ACTIVITIES IN THE PARK: Catch a fly fishing demonstration at the Little Dune Lake (10:30am); watch a history of the State Parks, view a special Just-4-Kids DVD tour of the parks, and then participate in the Idaho State Park Challenge Game (6pm on). The Astronomical Observatory will be open for viewing the heavens (9pm-midnight).
• REFRESHMENTS IN THE PARK: Begin with coffee & rolls at the Broken Wheel Campground (8am) and have Birthday Cake later in the day as it cools off.
• CONDITIONS IN THE PARK TODAY
Bruneau Dunes State Park, June 29th 2008
Summer weather has set in at Bruneau Dunes State Park. With the hot weather early mornings and late evenings make for enjoyable hiking times. These tranquil hours also offer great wildlife viewing as the resident wildlife also takes advantage of the cool times of the day to feed and move about.
Fishing is good on the Little Dunes Lake. Bluegills continue to spawn and their spawning beds can be observed around the shoreline. Black Bass are doing well with surface lures leading to success. Access to the little lake near the Observatory has been improved but it is limited to hand launching of float tubes and small watercraft. Ask staff where this new parking area is located. In addition a fish cleaning station has been constructed for your use between the launch area and Observatory.
Camp hosts are on the grounds if you have questions upon arrival.
It is also irrigation season 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.
For a different park experience try one of our camper cabins. A bunk bed, futon and table and chairs along with air conditioning makes for an enjoyable stay. Call for reservations.
Interpretive programs performed by park and volunteer staff take place on weekends. Link to our calendar of events page for details or when at the park visit our information kiosks for dates, times and program topics.
The Observatory at Bruneau Dunes State Park is open for the season on Friday and Saturday nights. Introductory program topics change from week to week and several guess speakers rotate these duties.
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.
We ship orders with payment in cash, check, money-orders, and/or credit card.