Sand Mountain Wilderness Study Area

Egin Lakes access is located midway along a 15 mile stretch of sand dunes. To the east are small rolling hills suitable for beginning ATVers or youngsters. To the west are challenging hills - mountains of sand up to 425 feet high. Surrounding 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- What Are They?

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 designate them Wilderness or release them for further study.

How Does This Affect ORV Recreation?

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. Thousands of off-road vehicle users, horseback riders, and others enjoy the freedom of the sand dunes each year.

Rules and Regulations

Stay on the open sand! 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 sharptail 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 “Designated 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.

Is Camping Allowed?

No camping is allowed inside the Wilderness Study Area (WSA) except in designated areas adjacent to the Eastern boundary of the WSA along Fremont County Red Road.

Local Business & Tourist Information

The Pit Stop (your dune’n store): 208-390-9454 /  208-359-1454
Eastern Idaho Visitor Center: 208-523-1012  /  866-365-6943
Rexburg Chamber of Commerce: 208-356-5700
St. Anthony Chamber of Commerce: 208-624-4870
Sand Hills Resort: 208-624-4127
Desert Oasis: 208-624-3275
Fremont County Sheriff: 208-624-4482 

More Information

Bureau of Land Management - Idaho Falls
1405 Hollipark Drive
Idaho Falls, Idaho 83401
Bill Boggs, Recreation Planner, 208-524-7500