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, February 6, 2009
Keep an eye on air temperatures, because if the dunes are frosty a sled, or saucer, provides an exhilarating ride.
Migrating waterfowl are moving through the Bruneau area and their stopover on the dune lakes is a chance to see many species up close. Canada geese and a variety of puddle and diving ducks are in the area. The desert landscape is ready for you to hike, ride your horse or camp. Come climb the dunes one brisk afternoon to admire the view and feel the breeze on your face.
There are walk-in RV sites and tent sites available all this week and weekend. Broken Wheel Campground is open, but the restrooms are now closed and a chemical toilet has been set up. Water has been shut off to individual RV sites and the price per night has dropped to $16.96 at these sites. Water is available from frost-free hydrants at the Equestrian Area and Maintence building.
The Equestrian Area is a good place to camp during the winter because it has all the necessities nearby: water; group shelter; vault toilet; picnic tables; fire rings; and horse corrals.
Eagle Cove Campground, and the cabins, are closed until mid-March.
The Observatory is closed for the winter and is expected to re-open on March 19th.
Vistor Center office hours, during the winter, are Friday, Saturday and Sunday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm.
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 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. 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.