38 Wildlife Sanctuaries to Explore in Idaho

The Hemingway–Boulders Wilderness, situated in Blaine County, Idaho, is a rugged and picturesque wilderness area covering approximately 67,998 acres. Named after the renowned author Ernest Hemingway, who spent time in this region, the wilderness offers a diverse landscape characterized by expansive high-desert plateaus, rugged mountains, and scenic canyons.

The Hemingway–Boulders Wilderness is a protected area located in central Idaho, near the town of Ketchum in Custer County. It covers approximately 110,000 acres of diverse terrain, named in honor of the renowned author Ernest Hemingway, who spent time in the area during the mid-20th century.

The Jim McClure–Jerry Peak Wilderness is a designated wilderness area located in central Idaho, encompassing about 116,898 acres. Named after former U.S. Senator Jim McClure and conservationist Jerry Peak, this region offers diverse landscapes, including rugged mountains, expansive valleys, alpine meadows, and diverse flora and fauna.

Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge, is a vital sanctuary for wildlife preservation and offers diverse natural experiences. It serves as an essential haven for wildlife conservation, offering visitors the chance to appreciate and learn about diverse habitats and the fascinating array of wildlife that call this refuge home.It serves as an essential haven for wildlife conservation, offering visitors the chance to appreciate and learn about diverse habitats and the fascinating array of wildlife.

The Little Jacks Creek Wilderness, located in the rugged expanse of Owyhee County, Idaho, is a pristine and remote area offering a unique wilderness experience. It offers adventurers an opportunity to explore rugged landscapes, experience solitude in an untouched setting, and connect with the raw beauty of Idaho's backcountry.

The McArthur Lake Wildlife Management Area, situated in Boundary County, Idaho, serves as a dedicated space for wildlife conservation and outdoor activities. It offers a space for wildlife conservation and regulated outdoor recreation, allowing visitors to connect with nature and appreciate the diverse habitats and wildlife within Boundary County's landscape.

Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge, is an important conservation area in the region, offering a chance for visitors to connect with nature, observe wildlife, and appreciate the significance of preserving these habitats for future generations. For the most current and detailed information about the refuge and its visitor opportunities, checking with local wildlife authorities or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service would provide the most accurate details.

Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge, located in Blaine County, Idaho, covers approximately 20,000 acres and serves as a vital habitat for various wildlife species. It was established to provide a safe haven for migratory birds and other wildlife, particularly waterfowl.

The Montour Wildlife Management Area, situated in southwestern Idaho, is a region managed by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game to preserve and protect wildlife habitats and provide recreational opportunities. Covering approximately 11,000 acres, this area is known for its diverse ecosystems, including riparian zones, wetlands, and upland areas.

The Mud Lake Wildlife Management Area, situated in eastern Idaho, encompasses approximately 31,000 acres of diverse habitats, including wetlands, marshes, and grasslands. This area, managed by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, plays a crucial role in preserving wildlife habitats and supporting various species of birds and other wildlife.

The North Fork Owyhee Wilderness, nestled in the expansive and remote terrain of Owyhee County, Idaho, is a pristine and secluded area known for its striking landscapes and untouched natural beauty.

The Pend Oreille Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in Bonner County, Idaho, is a significant natural habitat supporting diverse ecosystems and wildlife.it provides an opportunity for nature enthusiasts to experience and appreciate the richness of the natural environment in Bonner County while supporting the conservation efforts aimed at preserving its biodiversity.

Red River Wildlife Management Area at 314 acres (1.27 km2) is an Idaho wildlife management area in Idaho County near Elk City. It was purchased in 1993 from Don Wilkerson who offered it to the state to preserve it in a natural, undeveloped state. The property was acquired with the donations of $100,00 from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, $100,000 from Trout Unlimited, and $287,000 in mitigation funds from the Bonneville Power Administration.

The Sawtooth Wilderness, nestled within the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, is a pristine and expansive wilderness area renowned for its rugged beauty, towering peaks, alpine lakes, and diverse ecosystems.Encompassing approximately 217,000 acres, it offers a spectacular and remote backcountry experience. Its landscape features granite peaks, deep valleys, and numerous alpine lakes, including iconic destinations like Alice Lake, Sawtooth Lake, and Imogene Lake.

The Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, situated in Idaho and Montana, is one of the largest wilderness areas in the United States, covering approximately 1.3 million acres. Renowned for its pristine landscapes, rugged mountains, and remote wilderness, it offers an unparalleled experience for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Snow Peak Wildlife Management Area at 32,000 acres (130 km2) is an Idaho wildlife management area in Shoshone County. The WMA consists of 12,000 acres (4,900 ha) of Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) lands acquired from Plum Creek Timber in 1989 and 20,000 acres (8,100 ha) of lands on St. Joe National Forest that are cooperatively managed by the IDFG and U.S. Forest Service.

The Sterling Wildlife Management Area, located in Bingham County, Idaho, is a designated conservation area aimed at preserving wildlife habitats and providing recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Tex Creek Wildlife Management Area is located in eastern Idaho, near Rexburg, and covers a significant area in the Upper Snake River Plain. Tex Creek Wildlife Management Area serves as an important area for wildlife conservation, providing regulated access for hunting and offering opportunities for nature enthusiasts to observe and appreciate Idaho's diverse wildlife and natural habitats.