MEMBER DIRECTORY
LEDGEND OF THE
SAND DUNES
Indian legend says this area was the site of fierce, bloody battles between the Bannock, Shoshone and Blackfoot Indians.
One day as the sun was setting in the west, the great dunes arose and engulfed the warring Indian parties. Not a single warrior escaped. Their families fled to escape extinction. It is said that each evening as the sun sets, the spirits of the warriors are said to chant and moan the tortured cry of the vanquished. Maybe it’s just the wind, but with the discovery of arrowheads and other Indian artifacts, you might find yourself wondering ...
"Is it the just the wind?"
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SAND MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS STUDY AREA
Egain Lakes Recreation Acess
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Take the North Rexburg exit off of US highway 20. If northbound, turn lef, if southbound turn right onto 1900 E (Parker-Salem Highway and the Red Road).
Travel 6.3 miles north to the 2nd flashing light (at the 4-way stop) Turn left and travel .85 miles to the split in the road. Travel right over the railroad tracks and continue on 500 N for 2.9 miles. At the Egin Lakes Access Sign, turn right onto the gravel road.
Egin Lakes access id located midway along 1 15 mile stretch of sand dunes totaling 10,000 acres. to the east are small rolling hills suitable for beginning ATVers or youngsters. to the west are challenging hills, mountains of sand up 425 feet high. Surround the dunes is another 10,000 acres of juniper and sagebrush. together the two land types comprise the Sand Mountain Wilderness Study Area (WSA).
WSA's are tracts of land that meet criteria set forth by Congress for potential inclusion in the Wilderness Preservation System. As such, these lands are managed to protect natural values until such time as Congress decides to desgnate them Wilderness or release them for further study.
The BLM is required by law to maintain the natural values of the area. this is the focus of management and the basis for rules and regulations. However, there is room for a variety of responsible activities to occur. thousand of off-road vehicle users, horseback riders, and other enjoy the freedom of the sand dunes each year.
"Home of the world famous
Saint Anthony Living Sand Dunes & Fisherman's Breakfast"
"PLEASE PLAY BY THE RULES
RIDE SAFE - RIDE SMART!"
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Facilities include an access road, a large day use vehicle/trailer parking area, an equestrian parking area, an unload ramp, RV dump station, water hydrants and restrooms. There are 48 self assigned developed camp sites. Electric service is availabe in 28 of the sites for an additional fee. The campground, weather permitting will be open from april 1 (dry camping only until May 15) until October 31 (dry camping only during October). The camp area capacity is usually exceeded on most weekends. The camp area is not on a reservation system, so it is recommended that you make reservations at a private campground or motel, if needed.
RULES & REGULATIONS
STAY ON THE OPEN SANDS!
As managers and stewards of a WSA, the BLM must maintain the natural landscape surrounding the dunes. Further, this area provides critical range for 1,500 deer and 2,500 elk and habitat for sharp-tail and sage grouse. Recreation use leading to destruction of vegetation or other natural features could force closure of this area. Thus, there is one overriding regulation:
STAY ON THE OPEN SANDS!
Unless a route is specifically signed open with a "Designatied Route" sign, it is CLOSED!
Remember, the natural resources of an area provide the basis for the quality of your experience. Do your part to protect them and keep them clean. Your cooperation is appreciated.
Within the WSA, no camping or fires are allowed except in the designated area along Red Road.
For other regulations pertaining to BLM lands refer to the Code of Federal Regulation, Title 432, Part 8340 - Off Road Vehicles.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION