Stargazing Season From South Idaho Sand Dunes Park Ends Soon

As the fall season approaches, some Idaho state parks will be cutting back staff for certain activities that visitors enjoy during the warmer months. A park 60 miles southeast of Boise known for its remarkable dunes is in its final weeks of offering stargazing to the public from an onsite observatory.

I've visited Bruneau Dunes State Park a couple of times while living in the Magic Valley. The park is a quick drive from Twin Falls and has what I consider to be one of the most underrated kayak spots in southern Idaho. Found within the park is a man-made lake that locals refer to as "the pond," and I've really enjoyed it the few times I've visited.

Reservations and payment are required before the weekend viewings at the observatory to ensure attendance.

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Bruneau Dunes State Park also offers an equestrian center, camping, hiking, some of the tallest dunes in North America, and an observatory that operates from early April to mid-October. According to the park's website, the observatory will host viewings on Friday and Saturday evenings (weather permitted) until October 19 this season. October is also a good time of year to camp there because there are fewer mosquitos and bugs.

The park added a new telescope to its viewing facility in June of 2023. To view the schedule of events planned at the park for September and October, click here. Reservations and payment are required before the weekend viewings at the observatory to ensure attendance.