National Reserve · ID

Things to do in City Of Rocks

The National Park Service lists 27 things to do at City Of Rocks National Reserve. 24 have no extra fee, 23 need no reservation, and 25 allow pets. Each listing links to the full NPS page. Data is from the NPS snapshot of Oct 28, 2026.

Updated · NPS Data API

All (27) Camping (3)Hiking (3)Guided Tours (2)Birdwatching (2)Hands-On (1)Junior Ranger Program (1)Mountain Biking (1)Golf (1)Stargazing (1)Fishing (1)Scenic Driving (1)Horseback Riding (1)

Archeology of Castle Rocks Guided Hike

During this 1.10 mile ranger guided hike you will get to explore the archaeology of Castle Rocks State Park. The hike is easy to moderate with some elevation change.

1-2 Hours Reservation required Pets allowed

Guided Tours

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.

Fee applies Pets allowed

Hands-On

Backcountry Camping in Indian Grove

Backcountry camping is available in the designated Indian Grove area within City of Rocks National Reserve. Permits are required for backcountry camping and must be approved prior to your arrival.

1-14 Days Reservation required Pets allowed

Camping

Bike the Tea Kettle Trail

Tea Kettle Trail is a great mountain biking trail that runs between Bread Loaves and Elephant Rock. The trailhead can be accessed from the Bread Loaves group camping parking lot or the parking area next to Elephant Rock.

30-60 Minutes Pets allowed

Mountain Biking

Camping

Camping in City of Rocks, or nearby Smoky Mountain Campground is a great way to enjoy being out in nature. Relax beneath the cool shade of aspen, juniper, mountain mahogany, or pine. Spend the night surrounded by impressive granite formations and starry skies.

1-14 Days Fee applies Pets allowed

Camping

Disc Golf at Castle Rocks

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.

30-60 Minutes Pets allowed

Golf

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.

Pets allowed

Stargazing

Fishing at the Castle Rocks Fish Pond

Besides fishing, the pond is also a great place to watch birds and wildlife. There is a walking path, benches to sit and enjoy the scenery, as well as a picnic table and fire ring.

Pets allowed

Fishing

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.

Pets allowed

Scenic Driving

Hike Creekside Towers Trail

Creekside Towers is an out-and-back 1.2-mile trail. Nearby trails (such as Stairways or South Fork Circle Creek) could make for a longer, more adventurous loop.

1-2 Hours Pets allowed

Hiking

Hike the City of Rocks Loop

This remote loop hike is a ranger favorite. The combination of pine trees, rock formations, and epic views offer a surprise at every turn of the trail.

4-6 Hours Pets allowed

Hiking

Hike the Geological Interpretive Trail

City of Rocks is well known for its geologic wonders. The Geological Interpretive Trail will guide you through many types of unique rock features and formations and explain the forces that created them.

1-2 Hours Pets allowed

Hiking

History of Pinnacle Pass Guided Hike

Join rangers on a short 1.10 mile guided hike to Pinnacle Pass. This feature of the California Trail is located on private land and only accessible to the public through this hike. The hike is easy to moderate, with a small hill leading up to the pass.

1-2 Hours Reservation required Pets allowed

Guided Tours

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.

Pets allowed

Hunting

Ice Climbing

Explore epic rock and ice.

Winter Pets allowed

Ice Climbing

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.

Pets allowed

Rock Climbing

Shop for Souvenirs at the Visitor Center

Stop in to chat with a Ranger or pick up maps, guide booklets, and other informative resources. We offer souvenirs such as books, mugs, apparel, postcards, stickers and more.

5-30 Minutes

Shopping

Skiing

Tour the frosty granite spires.

Winter Pets allowed

Skiing

Snowmobiling

Take the road less traveled.

Winter Pets allowed

Snowmobiling

Winter Camping

Immerse yourself in the solitude of the "Silent City".

1-14 Days Winter Reservation required Fee applies Pets allowed

Camping

Before you go

Check current alerts and closures, entrance fees and operating hours for City Of Rocks. Programs and tours can change with the season or be cancelled on short notice — confirm on the NPS page before you plan around one.

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