Expansive terrain of white quartz sand dunes rising up to 400 feet, offering off-road vehicle recreation, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

General Information

Hours:

Open year-round with seasonal closures
"Big Dunes" and surrounding areas closed Jan 1 – sunrise Apr 1 or May 1 depending on zone
Smaller dunes east of Egin Lakes open year-round but often snow-covered in winter

Fees:

Day use: $5 per vehicle
Season pass: $60
Camping at Egin Lakes Campground: $25–$60 per night depending on site type

Pet Policy:

Pets are allowed but must be leashed and under control at all times

Closest cities with hotels:

St. Anthony (10 mi), Rexburg (20 mi)

Seasons:

Spring and fall are ideal; summer is hot and winter has limited access

Location:

Egin Lakes Access Rd, St.st-anthony-sand-dunes" rel="noopener" target="_blank">blm.gov

How to Get There

From Idaho Falls (50 mi): Take US-20 north to the North Rexburg exit, turn left onto 1900 E, continue to the 4-way stop, turn left, then follow signs to Egin Lakes Access Road.

Overview

The St. Anthony Sand Dunes span over 10,600 acres of soft, white quartz sand sculpted into towering dunes that reach heights of 400 feet. This surreal landscape, shaped by wind and time, is a haven for off-road vehicle enthusiasts who come to conquer its bowls, ridges, and steep climbs. But the dunes are more than just a playground for thrill-seekers—they are also a sanctuary for wildlife, including one of the largest herds of wintering elk in the United States. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, the area balances recreation with conservation, offering designated riding zones and seasonal closures to protect critical habitats.

Visitors can explore the dunes on foot, horseback, or ATV, with popular spots like Choke Cherry Hill, Devil’s Dune, and Dead Horse Bowl offering dramatic vistas and adrenaline-pumping terrain. Spring and fall are the best times to visit, when temperatures are mild and the sand is firm. The Egin Lakes Campground provides convenient access and amenities for overnight stays. Whether you're chasing the thrill of a dune climb or the quiet of a desert sunrise, the St. Anthony Sand Dunes deliver a unique blend of adventure and natural beauty.

This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the St. Anthony Sand Dunes, which are released under the https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/.