Bruneau Dunes State Park, Sand dune park in Owyhee County, Idaho.
Description
Bruneau Dunes State Park is a state park in Idaho's remote Owyhee region featuring massive sand dunes and two lakes set in desert terrain. The landscape also includes wetlands and open desert areas that create a mix of different natural environments.
History
The area was shaped more than 15,000 years ago by a massive ancient flood that left sand deposits across the region. The dunes have settled into this basin and remained relatively stable for thousands of years since.
Culture
The name comes from the Bruneau family who settled in this area generations ago. Visitors can sense how this remote desert landscape served as home to people drawn to its isolation and natural resources.
Practical
The park is open year-round with viewpoints and walking trails suitable for different fitness levels. An observatory on-site opens during warmer months for stargazing and night sky observation.
Did you know?
The dunes stay relatively in place despite constant winds because winds from opposite directions balance each other out. This is unusual for dune landscapes, which typically move with the strongest prevailing winds.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Idaho).
Idaho's remote locations offer access to diverse landscapes ranging from alpine lakes nestled in mountain ranges to volcanic formations and high desert terrain. The state contains geological features formed over thousands of years, including lava tubes that preserve ice year-round, sand dunes rising...
Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument
60.8 km
Thousand Springs State Park
65.6 km
Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area
60.5 km
Three Island Crossing State Park
29.8 km
Lucky Peak State Park
77.3 km
Lucky Peak Lake
76.1 km
Crater Rings
36 km
Our Lady, Queen of Heaven Church
60.5 km
Bruneau – Jarbidge Rivers Wilderness
55.8 km
Pole Creek Wilderness
79.1 km
Big Jacks Creek Wilderness
58.4 km
Bengoechea Hotel
26.2 km
Little Jacks Creek Wilderness
50.4 km
Diversion Dam and Deer Flat Embankments
79 km
Elmore County Courthouse
26.3 km
Owsley Bridge
66 km
Schubert Theatre
78.9 km
Owyhee County Courthouse
79.4 km
Our Lady of Limerick Catholic Church
31.6 km
Thompson Mortuary Chapel
78.9 km
Gorby Opera Theater
31.7 km
Mountain Home Carnegie Library
26.2 km
Bruneau Episcopal Church
9.9 km
Black Cliffs Rock Climbing
79.1 km
Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument Visitor Center
64.2 km
Bruneau Canyon
12.9 km
Sandy Point Beach
77.1 km
Balanced Rock Park
70.6 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes