The Observatory will be opening for the 2024 season on April 5th and programs will be every Friday and Saturday night through Oct. 19th (weather permitting)
Spring/Summer 2024 Update:
- Stage 2 fire restrictions are in place at the Equestrian Campground — no campfires and some other activities have been restricted as covered by this notice. No wood or charcoal fires or BBQ are permitted. LP/Propane grills are allowed. These restrictions are not for the Broken Wheel or Eagle Cove campgrounds.
- Camping reservation season is March 15, 2024 to October 20, 2024. Campsites and cabins located in Broken Wheel and Eagle Cove are available for reservations. Same day camping is available in the Equestrian campground and all unreserved sites.
- Reservations can be made 9 months in advance at idahostateparks.reserveamerica.com or by calling 1-888-922-6743
- Campsite check in time is 2p.m. No early check-ins are permitted. If you arrive early, you may enter the park and enjoy the park day use areas but you will not be able to enter your site until 2p.m.
- Sand board rentals are available at the Visitor Center. Due to limited staffing in the off season, please call ahead to verify VC hours of operation. Board rentals stop for the day when it reached 80° in the park.
- The Motor Vehicle Entrance Fee is required. It is the responsibility of the driver to bring cash or check as the Visitor Center and Entrance Kiosk hours vary. Failure to pay the MVEF will result in Citation or Surcharge (IDAPA 26.01.20)
Please note: UAV/Drone use is only permitted in the designated UAV area (contact the park for location). Flight outside of the designated are is strictly prohibited.
The park has day use areas, which include the dunes, which are only open to the public from 7 am to 10 pm. Please refer to IDAPA code 26.01.20.
Current Conditions
Address: 27608 Sand Dunes Rd
Mountain Home, ID 83647
Phone: (208) 366-7919
Hours of Operation: Day-use locations within state parks are open from 7 am to 10 pm, per Idaho state code 26.01.20 (5). Day-use hours may change based on park manager discretion.