City Of Rocks National Reserve

City Of Rocks National Reserve is a national reserve run by the National Park Service in Idaho.

In the park service’s words

Described by California Trail emigrants as “a city of tall spires,” “steeple rocks,” and “the silent city,” this awe-inspiring landscape continues to captivate. Today, it beckons rock climbers, hikers, campers, hunters, and adventurers with its dramatic scenery, fascinating geology, and echoes of the Old West. The Silent City is ready for you to explore.

From the National Park Service (public domain).

Things to do

• Winter Camping (1 to 14 Days): Immerse yourself in the solitude of the "Silent City".
• Explore the Night Sky: A day in the park doesn't have to end when the sun goes down! A whole new world comes alive at night and is waiting to be explored. The dark sky over City of Rocks is an excellent place to experience the beauty of the night.
• Become a City of Rocks Junior Ranger: Junior Rangers "Explore, Learn, and Protect" their national parks. Pick up a free booklet from the Visitor Center to learn about geology, nature, and history in City of Rocks National Reserve. Complete fun activities like scavenger hunts, fill-in-the-blanks, and word searches. Once you've finished the recommended numbe
• Geologic & Historic Sites Driving Tour: A self-guided journey to discovering geologic wonders and historical sites in City of Rocks National Reserve. As you drive through the Reserve you will be able to view the featured rock formations and historic sites from your vehicle. Use your imagination as you observe the rocks to see animals, faces, and buildings an
• Disc Golf at Castle Rocks (30 to 60 Minutes): With the dramatic Castle Rocks landscape in the backdrop, this small three-hole disc golf course is fun for all ages and abilities. The lush grassy area of Castle Rocks Ranch has large shady trees that provide a welcome reprieve from summer heat. There are bathrooms, and picnic facilities in this area with more a short
• Rock Climbing in City of Rocks and Castle Rocks: Popular since the 1970's, City of Rocks granite is internationally renowned among climbers. There are over 600 routes here, both traditional and sport. Climbs vary from 30-600 feet, rating from the relatively easy 5.6 to the extremely difficult 5.14.
• Hunting in City of Rocks and Castle Rocks: City of Rocks National Reserve was formed in part to preserve traditional uses of the land. It is one of few National Park System units that allows hunting. State and federal land around the Reserve, such as Castle Rocks State Park, Sawtooth National Forest, and BLM, are also open to hunting.
• Archery Course at Castle Rocks: This course at Castle Rocks State Park has more than 20 stations. Shot distance ranges from 20 yards to 60 yards depending on target size.

Fees and hours

Entrance fee: No entrance fee.

Hours: Open 24 hours, every day. The National Reserve is open 365 days a year, 7 days a week, 24hrs/day. Many roads are not maintained during the winter and may become impassable from late November through May. For current conditions visitors are encouraged to check with the Visitor Center or watch for alerts on our website and social media.

Camping

Lodging

• The Ranch House at Castle Rocks State Park: The Lodge is a century-old ranch house completely remodeled to blend the quaintness of yester-year with the convenience and comforts of today. The Lodge is available year-round, and reservations are recommended.

Getting there

From Boise: take I-84 East to exit 216 (Declo); go south on Highway 77 to Conner Creek Junction; turn right (west) on Highway 77 Spur to Almo. The visitor center and the park entrance are south of the post office and businesses. From Pocatello: take I-86 West to I-84 West to exit 216 and proceed as above. From Salt Lake City: take I-84 west to exit 245 (Sublette), turn left and go west to Malta. From Malta take Highway 77. Take Highway 77 Spur to Almo.

Drive times run from the airport to Zion Canyon Visitor Center, estimated with OSRM routing on OpenStreetMap roads at normal speeds; allow extra for traffic, stops and construction.

Miles are straight-line distances.

Visitor centers

• City of Rocks Visitor Center: Daily, 8:00AM - 4:30PM. STANDARD HOURS: The Visitor Center is open 7 days a week, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, including holidays. FALL/WINTER SEASON: November through mid-April the Visitor Center is open 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Tuesday through Saturday and closed holidays.

Weather

City of Rocks is located in south-central Idaho within the northern edge of the Basin and Range geologic province. Outdoor recreation can be pleasant from April through October. Summers are generally dry with 10 to 15 inches of precipitation in winter and spring. Summer temperatures range widely with night time lows occasionally approaching freezing and midday highs nearing 100° F; however, the typical range of low and high temperature is 45-85. Thunderstorms are common in the summer months (June - August)

From the National Park Service (public domain).

Know before you go

Drones are banned at almost every park site, and you may not take rocks, plants or artifacts. Pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet where they are allowed. Bring no firewood from home.

Nearby

The nearest national park is Grand Teton, about 187 miles away in a straight line.

Sources

• National Park Service Data API: City Of Rocks National Reserve (public domain)
• Official website

Last checked 1 November 2026.