Information
Idaho's largest public observatory is at Bruneau Dunes State Park along the shore of a little lake and surrounded by dunes, sagebrush desert and grassy flats. Visitors to the observatory watch a short orientation program and then gaze at the heavens through one of the observatory's telescopes. The popular observatory is open on Friday and Saturday evenings. Seating is limited for the audiovisual program and guests are accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Bruneau Dunes visitor center offers information on birds of prey, insects, fossils, wildlife and the dunes. Bird watching, fishing and climbing are other popular pastimes at the state park.
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Location
Southwestern Idaho, 18 miles SW of Mountain Home
Directions
18 mi. SW of Mountain Home near Bruneau
Nearest City
Bruneau
www.parksandrecreation.idaho.gov
Seasons
Summer, Fall, Spring
Hours
Every Friday & Saturday evening. The 2011 season begins on March 18 and runs through October 15th. Solar viewing begins one hour before sundown. Sky viewing, through several telescopes, takes place until midnight.
Fees
Admission to Park is $5 per vehicle and Observatory viewing fee is $3 per person (cash or checks only). Children age 5 and under are free.
Facilities
Boating Facilities, Campsites, Dump Station, Gift Shop, Handicap Access, Horse Facilities, Motor Coach Parking, Parking, Restrooms, Visitor Center