Shooting on Public Land in Idaho
Idaho offers millions of acres of BLM and National Forest land where recreational shooting is allowed. Here's what you need to know to shoot safely and legally.
Safety First
- • Know your target and what's beyond it. Never shoot over ridgelines.
- • Use a proper backstop. Earth berms, not rocks, trees, or open sky.
- • Check fire restrictions. Ricochets and muzzle blast can start fires.
- • Pack out everything. Brass, targets, and all trash. Leave No Trace.
General Rules for Public Land Shooting
BLM Land
- Shooting allowed unless specifically posted
- 150 feet from designated campgrounds
- 150 feet from residences, buildings, roads
- Must have safe backstop (bullet cannot leave area)
National Forest (USFS)
- Similar rules to BLM land
- 150 feet from campgrounds and picnic areas
- Not within or across wilderness boundaries
- Check for local Forest Orders
Fire Season Restrictions
During fire season (typically June-October), many areas require you to carry a fire extinguisher, shovel, and water when shooting. Some areas may close entirely. Check the BLM Idaho website for current restrictions.
Popular Shooting Areas
Boise Foothills (BLM)
North of Boise
Access: Multiple access points off Bogus Basin Rd and Highway 21
Very popular. Avoid weekends. Many areas closed due to fire risk in summer.
Birds of Prey NCA
South of Boise
Access: Access via Highway 45 and Swan Falls Road
Designated shooting area available. Check NCA maps for boundaries.
Emmett Area (BLM)
North of Emmett
Access: Squaw Butte Rd and Freezeout Rd areas
Less crowded than Boise Foothills. Good backstops in canyon areas.
Owyhee Desert (BLM)
Southwestern Idaho
Access: Multiple access points off Highway 78 and Highway 51
Remote, uncrowded. Excellent for long-range shooting. Bring all supplies.
Idaho City Area (USFS)
Boise National Forest
Access: Forest roads off Highway 21
National Forest land. Find established shooting areas with natural backstops.
Sawtooth National Forest
Central Idaho
Access: Various access points off Highway 75 and Highway 20
Less developed shooting areas. Focus on finding safe backstops.
What You Can (and Cannot) Shoot
✓ Allowed
- Paper and cardboard targets
- Steel targets (reactive, self-healing)
- Clay pigeons (clean up pieces)
- Commercial biodegradable targets
✗ Prohibited
- Glass bottles and containers
- Appliances, TVs, furniture
- Tannerite/exploding targets (often banned)
- Tracer rounds (fire risk)
- Trees, rocks, wildlife
Official Resources
Know Your Land
Use Roam Idaho's map to verify land ownership before you shoot. Never shoot on private property without permission.
Open Land Map