Minidoka Internment National Monument was established in 2001 as the 385th unit of the National Park System to commemorate the hardships and sacrifices of Japanese Americans interned there during World War II. Also known as the 'Hunt Camp', the Minidoka Relocation Center was a 33,000-acre site with over 600 buildings and a total population of about 13,000 internees held from Washington, Oregon, and Alaska. In 1944, the internees harvested 7,300,000 pounds of produce in the surrounding agricultural fields, making the camp completely self sustainable.It was in operation from August 1942 until October 1945.
The Monument is located between the towns of Twin Falls and Jerome, Idaho in south central Idaho. There are no facilities or services at the site and the boundaries are not well marked. Many buildings and features that were part of the center are located on private property surrounding the Monument. Please do not enter any private property. The National Parks Service is currently working to establish relationships within the community to preserve the significant remaining components of the Relocation Center and to provide visitor services.
Is there a visitor center at Minidoka?
No, at this time there is no visitor center located on site. Hagerman Fossil Beds NM is the temporary location for visitor services and does have an informational display area.
What is left at the site to see?
Most of the site’s buildings and structures were removed. The barrack areas were plowed under so currently not much remains of the original camp. If you do go, you will see the remains of the entry guard station, waiting room, ornamental rock garden and commemorative plaques.
What happened to all the buildings from the camp?
After the war, the camp’s buildings were dismantled or relocated. Former Minidoka War Relocation Center buildings can be found throughout the Twin Falls area and beyond.
Can I camp at Minidoka?
Camping is not allowed in Minidoka Internment National Monument, but there are numerous camping facilities in the nearby communities. Picnicking is allowed at the site, pack it in - pack it out. There are no established picnic facilities (tables, etc.) There is one handicap accessible port-o-potty on site.
Can I bring my dog to the site?
Dogs are welcome at Minidoka, but they must be on a leash and owners must clean up after their pets. Pets are not allowed in buildings . Please be aware that our parking lot has little to no shade and summer temperatures are frequently over 100.
