BRUNEAU DUNES STATE PARK
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 Idaho's largest public observatory. 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.
Day-UseFishingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Swimming Beachyes
Bridle Trailsyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
WinterActivitiesyes
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.
1. Bruneau Dunes State Park offers a small lake for swimming.
2. The park's main attraction is the largest single-structured sand dune in North America, but it also has water activities.
3. Swimming at C. J Strike Reservoir nearby provides another option within close proximity to the state park.
4. Life jackets are recommended when swimming due to potential undercurrents and varying depths of waters across different areas.
5. There aren't any lifeguards on duty so swimmers should exercise caution while enjoying their swim sessions or other aquatic activities.
6. The best time for swimming is during summer months as temperatures can reach up into 90 degrees Fahrenheit making cooling off essential.
7. Swimming after sunset isn't allowed; visitors must adhere strictly with this rule enforced by Idaho Parks & Recreation Department.
The park offers a small lake where visitors can enjoy non-motorized boating activities. Canoeing and paddleboarding are popular choices, with rentals available on-site during the summer months for those who don't have their own equipment. Fishing is also permitted in the lake, providing another water-based activity option.
Fishing:
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.
Bruneau Dunes State Park is
Bruneau Dunes State Park offers picnic tables, grills and shelters. Enjoy food amidst sand dunes, lakes or observatory views.
Biking is permitted on the park's roads and trails, but caution should be exercised due to sandy conditions.
Mountain bikes are recommended for navigating rough terrains.
The 8-mile loop trail offers a moderate biking experience with scenic views of dunes and lakes.
Riders must respect wildlife habitats by sticking to designated paths only; off-trail riding is prohibited.
Helmets are strongly advised as safety measures against potential falls or collisions during rides in this area.
Ensure you carry enough water while cycling due to high temperatures that can lead to dehydration quickly.
The park offers a diverse bird population, ideal for birdwatching. Species include owls, hawks and songbirds among others. The observatory also provides opportunities to spot nocturnal birds like the Great Horned Owl.
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.