Are you looking for a place to stay in Mountain Home with your horse? Finding a place to stay in Idaho while traveling with your horse has never been easier. These scenic and easy-to-reach Idaho campsites are perfect for your horse camping excursion.
With one of the longest camping seasons in the Idaho Parks system, Bruneau Dunes State Park offers camping opportunities throughout the year. Campsites and cabins are available with plenty of first-come, first-served sites too. Bruneau Dunes State Park boasts the tallest single-structured sand dune in North America with a peak rising 470 feet above the surrounding desert floor. Explore the dunes in your hiking boots or rent a sand board from the Visitor Center, but off-road vehicles are only permitted on the main road. You can also fish for bluegill in the lakes at the foot of the dune; unlock the mystery of the desert with a breathtaking hike or horseback ride; plan a group picnic or visit the Bruneau Dunes Observatory and gaze at the night sky through the Observatory's collection of telescopes. (Observatory open Friday and Saturday evenings, April through mid-October.)
$29 - $39 / night
Situated along the Snake River, Celebration Park was established as Idaho’s only archaeological park in 1989. A walk through the huge basalt melon gravels deposited by the Bonneville flood reveals petroglyphs 100 to 10,000 years old. Visitors learn about the Paleolithic and Archaic lifeways and enjoy throwing a dart with an atlatl. Experience a walking tour of the historic Guffey Railroad Bridge and be captivated by southwest Idaho’s early mining and railroad history.
$2 - $5 / night
ATTN: Fires not allowed at this site
Named after brothers Al and Roy Halverson who once farmed property to the north, the Halverson Bar and Halverson Lake area is unique for its curving two-mile sandbar along the Snake River and its two shallow lakes nestled below the rimrock and tall sand dunes. The Halverson Bar and Halverson Lake area is located at the western end of the Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area (NCA). This 1,200 acre area is managed for non-motorized recreational activities. Motorized uses are not allowed in the area. The lakes were originally natural depressions that accumulated water seasonally and were sustained by small springs. The lakes have since been deepened by homesteaders and farmers. Today, most of the water in Halverson Lakes comes from irrigation run-off from the upland plateau. Decades ago the lakes were stocked with fish - blue gill, bass, and crappie - which are the primary catch today. Cliffs and sloping bluffs of basalt separate the shoreline and canyon bottom from the upland desert. Basaltic boulders, deposited by the flooding waters of Lake Bonneville 15,000 years ago, lie like giant-size melons on the sandy bar. The area includes a gravel parking area and several miles of hiking trails.
Great place to camp with horses, pets and family. Just one mile North of quaint Idaho City. Walking distance to the Rodeo Arena, playground and just around the corner is the public RV Dump. About a mile to Morris Creek for a cooling swim. 2.5 miles to The Springs, Hot Springs Retreat. So much history in this part of the Boise National Forest. Right off Highway 21. 123 Bucking Horse Lane, Idaho City, ID First Come, First Serve. Pay Station with envelopes provided. Individual sites might be reserved, please check for signs.
$35 / night
Guide
Arrived a bit late and didn't have a chance to explore but lovely landscapes. Enjoyed the protected shelters, but it was very windy. The showers and flush toilets were closed for the season, which kinda sucked but the pit toilets were clean. Would visit again!
Guide
I reside approximately five miles from this campground and frequently visit. I've camped there back when it was merely dirt campsites. I'm providing some updated photos for future campers, 13 sites first come first serve. There's a large area at the road's end for turning around, though the approach to the gated campsites is somewhat rough; thus, campers with higher clearance are advised. If space permits, you can also park your camper in the main lot by the river's edge for the same fee. This area is fully paved and equipped with picnic tables and vault toilets, but it may get crowded with day users. Once you head towards the improved campsites, you're essentially committed to entering, but turning around is possible. Additionally, there's an excellent hiking trail leading to Halverson Lake not far in, forming a 3.9-mile loop. For a more extensive hike, follow the river trail to discover old stone mini huts—some are intact enough to enter, while others are just rubble, yet they're all intriguing to explore. It's believed they once served as shelters for trappers.
GuideSuch a clear beautiful night. Site is a bit uneven and a burn ban.
GuideBad roads, high tension wires crackled with electricity, and a lot of traffic on the main road.
TravelerWhile the dunes at Bruneau make for some fun sledding, my favorite part is the star gazing program offered by the park staff during the summer. A new telescope facility is being completed and will be open by June of 2023. We weren't able to use it, but we were able to look at smaller telescopes the staff had out. They also used lasers to point out constellations in the sky. When the weather is clear, the stars are just amazing!
For camping, I recommend the Broken Wheel loop. A lot of the sites have a shelter over the picnic table, and they are also spaced out more than the Eagle Cove loops. Most of the sites have water and 30 amp or 50 amp service. The park has its own dump stattion you can use on the way out.
GuideCampground was good. Great view of night sky. Super windy, tents beware. The showers at the Eagle Cove campground were awful. The water barely dripped out and had that sulfur smell that sometimes comes from wells.
GuideSites are next to the river and have amazing views of the surrounding terrain.
Trash cans are located at each designated site as well as a level area to set up.
There is cell reception in case you are interested but the wifi was poor.
The fire pits are locked during fire season.
Unfortunately, my site was a victim of irresponsible campers who left trash and urinated near the tent site. Obviously not the campground’s fault but something to be aware of.
$5 fee with dropbox. 3 night max (within 30 day period.)
Scout
When the water is high, and you have a boat available the lake can make the trip almost bearable. However, the high costs, terrible spot organization, continuous UTVs on the road, and overall maintenance at this campground really tend to kill any good vibes you may have had on the water. We have tried coming here multiple times and always are underwhelmed with the results. Also, if you by chance were thinking of staying in the "resort" expect higher than normal prices for a room with a bed and bathroom, no services are provided (including cable), they do however have a dvd collection you may barrow from if you are in need of something on the tv.
GuideWell, that wasn’t fun. If anyone is planning on tent camping here, I would highly suggest going somewhere else. The dunes are awesome, but wow were the sites a let down. The fields had no grass and minimal shade. I ended up sleeping in my car but with the heat, needed the windows down. That’s when I entered mosquito hell and spent the night swatting skeeters all night. For an rv, sure good spot but tent campers beware.
RangerWe had to stay inside with the air conditioning on and avoiding mosquitoes in July. Maybe March is a good time. The dunes are cool and the observatory is a fun extra feature.
LegendSenior discount, Dark Skies, Observatory, Tallest Dune in N.A., definitely worth a night or two.
Our son was stationed at Mountain Home AFB and deployed in the Iraqi war, Enduring Freedom. We did not have the chance to visit as a result. While in Idaho, we swung by the base and then headed to Bruneau Dunes SP at his recommendation. It was not what we expected. I won’t lie. It’s a desert folks … well, more accurate, high plains. But what a cool place. The sites are basic & not a lot of shade to be found. But the bathhouse is emaculate. Great showers to wash off the sand from climbing the dunes. Even if you aren’t staying at the campground, you can shower for $3. If you are interested in astronomy or astronomy photography, this is a great place. The observatory wasn’t open the day we were there. I didn’t get meet the host, but heard great things. The dump station is large. AT&T service, spotty.
GuideDunes are impressive and worth a hike. Virtually no shade in Eagles cove area. Wagon wheel is more shades. Super hot at time of visit- 101 F
GuideHot, windy, bugs...great kayaking! Bathrooms are clean. If you don't have ac...whew
GuideElectric and water hook-up, there is only well currently for the whole area. Observation area still closed due to upcoming work. A 2nd will be added next year. No shade except what you bring.
GuideChecked in late as the sun was setting. Just in time to get thru dinner as the Sand Dunes turned purple majesty. Free hot showers heated bathrooms and great views of the Dunes. Recommend the SW corner sites 31, unobstructed views
LegendThe campground is not why you go here. The sites are very basic, sandy, close together however, if you like sightseeing and exploring this place is unique and interesting. The sand dune is huge and weird to see in the middle of this farmland. Not another one for hundreds of miles. That, and the stars at night are really mind blowing.
We visited in the winter. the campground was all but empty, maybe 4 campers all weekend. The forecast was for 28 degrees Saturday night and my thermometer read 8 degrees in the morning. The RV did fine and didn't freeze up. Whether you come here in winter or summer, be prepared! Bring everything you'll need including water, food, warm and/or cool clothing depending on season. It's out there a ways! The little town of Bruneau (10 minutes away) is not too far away, but they don't have much in the way of supplies or groceries. Mountain Home has everything - about 30 minutes away.
This is an interesting and fun place for a day or two. Wouldn't stay longer than that. The $30 we paid for a full hookup trailer site was a bit on the high side in my opinion, but everything is going up, so it's somewhat a common price.
ScoutWorth the fee in our opinion. Very clean, nice folks and not crowded.
Guideit is very hot during the day, which I love...just warning. We stayed alongside two homeless families with their rigs parked in the parking lot. All was fine, except for the 4 children left unattended during the day. The kids were well mannered, but I had a difficult time taking my eyes off them while they swam (elementary school age) in the Snake. Silly me, if their parents weren't worried, why should I be?
Lots to do and to see, quiet during the day but cows crying at night. A stockyard is just down the road. I would definitely stay again.
GuideCelebration Park is the perfect campground for basic boondocking (with bathrooms). It is remote and wild with non-stop views from every site and many outdoor activities nearby. At the entrance to the campground, there is a visitors center, many picnic tables, fire rings, an interpretive walk, and access to the riverfront. This is where the bathrooms are containing a single sink, electrical outlet and two toilets. No showers are available. The bathroom was exceptionally clean when I stayed there. The park adjoins BLM land. There are no hookups for power, water or sewer. Potable water is accessed from the bathrooms and spigots near the entrance. The camping area goes on for at least 1/4 mile along the river and more sites are away from the water.
Some reviewers mention the bugs. Yes there were swarming gnats when I visited in February, not unbearable, but worth noting if that bothers you. Also note the wind coming down the gorge creates some showy sandstorms. (See video) Hey, it's the outdoors.
The county park is located on the Snake River Gorge about 25 miles from the nearest town. It is located on the northern fridge of the Morley Birds of Prey Sanctuary. You will awaken to the sound of the ducks and geese and can watch hawks and ravens soar on the winds rushing through the gorge. This is not the best place for watching the raptors, as I learned on staying there. Swan Falls south about 15 miles is for wildlife viewing, nevertheless, there was plenty to see and I spent two nights there.
A walk up away from the river takes you to a large lake and you can also cross the historic rail bridge to the other bank of the river and climb to the top of the gorge. Excellent place for stargazing, but avoid the sites closest to the visitor center where the lights interfere with prevent perfect darkness.
LegendCelebration Park is a nice place to spend the day but I have never spent the night there. It is really hot in the summer without much shade. There are a lot of activities there including hiking, swimming, fishing, the information center and atlatl throwing. There are also petroglyphs in the area.
Legend
This is a conveniently located campground near all the amenities of Idaho City. Miles of forest for hiking, exploring and fishing. Right off Highway 21, it's easy to find with ample space between campsites. A great base camp for exploring the area.
LegendBruneau Dunes State Park is a hidden gem in Idaho just 20 min off I-84 in Idaho not far from Boise. There is a small field of sand dunes in the park and the largest dune is the largest active dune structure in NorthAmerica. A couple of lakes and ponds are also found at the base of the dunes. There are 3 campgrounds in the park, one is an equestrian one. Only the outhouses are open in the winter and water and showers are turned off in winter but electrical hook ups are still available. Great views of the sand dunes from the campgrounds as well. Marginal cell reception with Verizon. Signal too weak for AT&T.
LegendMy first time in Idaho and talk about diversity and beauty. Bruneau Dunes is just another example of the variety of experiences to be had within this state! Windy, sunny and sandy best describes the whole park. The sand was a little toasty so I kept the dogs mostly in the shade. Sliding down the dunes is pretty cool. The pond/lake was low and mucky when we were there and I don’t know if fishing would be an option. The campground is adequate and well maintained. The picnic shelters help some with the sun and wind. Bring good anchors for anything you want to set up. The staff was nice and informative. Definitely worth a look see just cause it’s cool.
GuideStayed here for one night. It was during the pandemic, so the showers were closed, which was a bummer. Other than that, it seems like a good place. The sites are big, level, and well manicured. A few sites have shade trees while others have covered picnic tables. We were just passing through, so it wasn't convenient for us. If you're doing something in the area (river, dunes, etc.), it's a good option.
Guide
Its pretty close to the snake river, and at the trailhead of a non vehicle trail. Its after Celebration Park on Victory Ln, you drive around the park and it turns into a dirt road. BLM or County land I think. Not many folks here. Smells like horse droppings. Pretty rough terrain getting to the end. There was a sign about a mile back that said “3 day camping limit”. You can get to the water, but its a slippery and steep trip. Its beautiful otherwise. There are big critters out here sniffing and jumping onto my camper, making my dog go crazy. Free camping, dispersed, no fresh water, no fires allowed. Hikers going to the trail will walk past your site if you park on the road turnouts... so dont shower outside... lessons learned.
GuideThis location is great for the fall or spring getaway. Only half a dozen sites. No electric or water on site but water is available by visitors center as is an amazingly clean and modern restroom ! The views are stupendous and I recommend taking a hike at dark across the bridge and up the Mesa and stargaze. Good hiking that is pretty flat and mtn biking as well.
TravelerWhile the sites themselves leave much to be desired, Bruneau is awesome. The camp hosts have been there for 7 years and are super friendly and helpful. The restrooms are in tip-top shape and there are several features that made this an awesome spot for our family-a dog park within walking distance, open grassy space for playing whiffle ball, etc and the ability to ride bikes to the Dunes-about 1 mile from the Broken Wheel site. It does get super windy though. And although we have only been in the fall and spring, I have heard you really cannot walk on the sand in the summer-too hot! Overall, we love it.
Horse camping in Idaho offers a unique blend of scenic landscapes and outdoor adventure, perfect for equestrians looking to explore the great outdoors with their horses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Mountain Home, ID?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Mountain Home, ID is Bruneau Dunes State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 31 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Mountain Home, ID?
TheDyrt.com has all 6 equestrian camping locations near Mountain Home, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.
