2 Incredible Sand Dunes in Idaho (Best Time to Visit and More!)

There are so many phenomenal sand dunes dotted throughout the United States, that it can be difficult to pick which to visit. That decision gets a little easier for Idaho residents since they have a few gorgeous dunes right in their backyard. Here are 2 incredible sand dunes in Idaho, along with information about what you can do there and when you should visit.

St. Anthony Sand Dunes

Size: 10,600 acres

Height: 400 feet

Region: Eastern

Available Camping: 48 campsites at Egin Lakes Campground

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) oversees the care of St. Anthony Sand Dunes in Idaho. This pristine oasis features over 10,000 acres of stunning dunes comprised of white quartz. It’s a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts who love taking advantage of the open area. Some permitted activities include hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and hitting the dunes in off-road vehicles (ORV). 

St. Anthony Sand Dunes is also home to a large herd of elk every winter. It is one of the largest herds in the United States. This presence, and the fact that the BLM site is home to a wilderness study area, means that some areas close throughout the year.

The spot is close to St. Anthony, only 8 miles west of the small town. They both lie in the eastern part of Idaho and are only an hour and a half drive from Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Since it is within driving distance for residents of two states, many people opt for a day trip. However, that isn’t the only option! Egin Lakes Campground has 48 campsites available. A little over half the sites are reservable, with the remainder left open on a first-come, first serve. 

Consider visiting in the middle of the week if you plan a trip during the height of summer. This timing will mean fewer crowds and a better shot of scoring one of those prized campsites. You also don’t have to bring your own ORV. There are rental opportunities in St. Anthony.

When to Visit St. Anthony Sand Dunes

Technically, St. Anthony Sand Dunes is open all year. But there are a few caveats. The first is snow will blanket much of the area during the winter and part of spring. That’s not a problem if you have the proper vehicles and warm-weather gear. However, know that the areas you can explore are extremely limited during this period. 

Since these Idaho dunes are a haven for wildlife and a wilderness study area, parts are closed to visitors from January 1 to April 1 or May 1. There is only one section open throughout these months. Check with the BLM before planning your trip.

Bruneau Dunes State Park

Size: 4,800 acres

Height: 470 feet

Region: Southwest

Available Camping: Camping and cabins are both available

While Bruneau Dunes State Park is only about half the size of St. Anthony Sand Dues, it is no less impressive. This gem in the southwestern corner of Idaho features the tallest dunes in North America! You can find them just south of the Snake River, east of Bruneau. It’s a little off the beaten path but well worth the trip. And since the drive from Boise is just over an hour, it is easy to take a day trip to Bruneau Dunes State Park. 

However, there are ample places to stay if you want to make a weekend (or longer) of your trip. All campsites are first come, first serve. They are open year-round, but facilities get winterized. So, be ready to rough it a little if you want to stay once the temperatures drop below freezing. An alternative is to reserve one of the many available cabins in the park. 

Unfortunately, ORV are not allowed on the dunes themselves. They have to stick to the main road. But that doesn’t mean your fun is limited! There are lakes at the base of the dunes featuring world-class bluegill fishing. Or, consider hiking to the top of the dunes, going for a mountain biking adventure, or surfing the sand. The latter is easy to accomplish once you rent a sandboard (available at the Visitor Center). 

When to Visit Bruneau Dunes State Park

Bruneau Dunes State Park is open year-round, so there are plenty of chances to beat the crowds. The best time of year to visit will depend on what adventures you want to pursue. If camping and fishing are your prime goals, summer may be your best bet. Just make sure to get there early in the morning or early in the season to snag the best spots.

It is also important to consider the seasonality of the park. While this state park is open all year, not all amenities are open. Visitor Center hours may be limited due to reduced winter staffing. The observatory is closed in the coldest months. And restrooms get winterized for much of the year.

However, a day trip during the winter offers the chance to avoid crowds of people and to see the dunes in a whole new light.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © David Gilder/Shutterstock.com