Best Camping in and near Priest Lake State Park

86% (7 reviews)

Priest Lake State Park: A Gem Amid the Selkirk Mountains.

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Stay at a public campground in Priest Lake State Park

86%

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Priest Lake Campground

157 sites · RVs, Tents In Priest Lake State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Priest Lake State Park

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Paradise on Mirror Lake

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Sagle, ID

>>> Voted #1 Campground in Idaho 2022, 2024 and #2 in 2023 (Hipcamp Awards) <<< Like a postcard photograph, Bigfoot Campout is perched up about 50 feet over Mirror Lake, sitting in a mountain bowl on one end of the lake. Campers will have gorgeous views and sunsets over the lake. Fishing, swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing, hiking and wildlife watching abound. The campsite is off-the-beaten path so you'll be away from the crowds, yet the site is still close to other area attractions like Lake Pend Oreille (10 min. drive), charming downtown Sandpoint (15 min. drive) and Silverwood Theme Park (30 min. drive). The beauty and allure of Mirror Lake led to it being featured in two Hollywood movies -- Dante's Peak (1997) and Mel (1998). The lake itself is excellent for fishing, and stocked with Kokanee, Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout, and Cutthroat Trout. The stocking is typically scheduled for the first week of June each year, so if you are an angler, it's best to come after June 7th for the best fishing. (Just before June, the fish stock will be at it's lowest point of the year, so keep that in mind.) Paying homage to the Bigfoot legend in northern Idaho, the theme of this campground is all things Sasquatch! Can you find all 9 Sasquatch hiding throughout the campground? Some are hard to find, while others are in plain sight! Swimming in nearby Talache Landing (a.k.a. Talache Beach) on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille is an absolute must-do. The views are absolutely stunning and the water is crystal clear -- and quite refreshing on a hot day. Fishing is best done in a canoe or small boat which can be put in at our campground dock (free) or at the nearby public boat ramp ($5 fee). Fishing off of the campground dock is also a possibility but beware that lily pads are prevalent. Please obey all of the camp rules which are listed in each campsite. The most important campground rule is leaving the campground just as you found it, or better. This means smothering fires and packing out all trash to prevent wildlife from visiting our campground! A bit of history... In 2021, the campsites were graveled and graded, each with their own picnic table and fire pit. A mulch tent pad was added to Campsites C and D. An on-site Port-A-Potty was also installed at this time. In 2022, 50-30-20 Amp electric pedestals for camper and RV use were installed in campsites B and C/D. Also, a sand tent pad was installed in campsite F and a Sasquatch Trail was added where you can search for many Bigfoot hiding in the woods! In 2023 a brand-new 70' elevated nature-walk and dock were installed on the lakefront. In campsite E, a mulch tent pad was installed. Also, an interactive "Enchanted Forest" was added to the campground, which lights up a night to reveal all of the woodland creatures that live there! (Kids love this!) In 2024, a lakefront tiny cabin was added down by the dock at Campsite A, along with a grassy beach, hammocks and a grass tent pad. An Amenities Shed full of several camping games like horseshoes and corn hole was also added by the Port-A-Potty area. Two additional Port-A-Potties were also added, bringing the total to three for the campground. In 2025, a water tower will be installed, allowing campers to fill up with potable water within steps of each campsite. In addition, Fern Trail will be completed where you can hike through a "fern forest" along the lakefront. In 2026, a concrete corn hole pit will be installed, as well as a "shower bag" showering area. Yurt construction will also begin in 2026, with likely completion in 2027. As the host for this campground, I do not live on-site. You may reach me anytime before, during, or after your stay via phone, text or Hipcamp messenger. I almost always respond within a few minutes. Detailed directions, and camp information will be sent to every booked guest 48 hours prior to their arrival. When selecting your campsite, please take note of the following: Best lake views: Campsite A, C and D. (Campsites E and F have partially obstructed lake views due to trees.) Easiest RV access: Campsite B. It's a pull-through site. Most private: Campsites A and B, or booking Campsites C/D or E/F together. (Do not book C/D or E/F for complete privacy unless you book them in pairs.) Most shade: Campsites A, E and F. Sunniest: Campsites B, C an D. Electric access: Campsites B, C and D. (C/D share a power pedestal.) Nearest to Port-a-Potty: Campsites A and E. Nearest to lake: Campsite A. Best for large parties: Booking Campsites C/D together (for larger RV camping parties) or booking Campsites E/F together (for moderate-sized tent camping parties). Property located 48°10'11.0"N, 116°30'02.1"W

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Phoenix Rising Ranch

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Priest River, ID

This is a very private and quiet place, more of a sanctuary and not a party place. The only thing you hear is nature, a breeze through the pine trees, the birds, and the creek. This property was and is an organic permaculture farm in the forest. There are two orchards and an organic garden. The water is from a spring. The La Luna cabin is off-grid with an option to plugin if needed. Hot Showers at my cabins are private and outdoors. There's nothing more wonderful than a hot spring-fed shower. The toilets are composting. (No water is wasted here)! Two of the cabins were built from the trees on the property by the first family that lived here in the earlier 1900s. The Birds Nest cabin was originally a tool shed that needed a LOT of Love to be in the condition that it is today. It does have power, running water and wi-fi. There is the option to take an acrylic painting class, banjo, guitar or fiddle lessons, paddleboard lessons, and have a real old-timey campfire with a glass of wine or two with live music performed by our famous Fiddlin Red on the fiddle, banjo, and guitar. Your experience here may change your life forever! We haven't added all the experiential options yet, so if there is something you are interested in please inquire. Every year we make it more and more magical and interesting. It's four miles up a county-maintained dirt road and one mile to a non-motorized lake. I can't see my neighbors, but they are awesome artists and musicians and some of them are off the grid! If you're bringing a pet, they must be on a leash and be quiet pets. If you are bringing a child they also need to be quiet and respectful. I want to keep my neighbors and my other guests happy with a peaceful atmosphere. Thank you!

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Spokane Western Dude Ranch Barn BnB

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents58 acres · Spokane, WA

Spokane Trail Rides and Boarding is a Western Horse n Cattle Ranch with Grand Views! We're a full working we ranch offering trail rides, Barn Animal Hands on Tours, 5 beautiful Campsites, 3 REAL horse stall rooms made into Cozy Barn BnB rooms for guests! We off full care Horse Boarding and MORE. Jen is the owner and host, a single Christian woman making dreams come true! The ranch is her life and all the animals are happy healthy and beautiful. Come enjoy some camping & stay among them. 🤠🐎We are a horse motel too! Bring your horses: $50 per horse/bring your own hay/xxl stall use and turn out to obstacle course.

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ALMOST TO CANADA - FAR NORTH IDAHO

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents16 acres · Bonners Ferry, ID

Note: We have a Bonners Ferry, ID mailing address but our physical location is approximately 30 miles North of Bonners Ferry and 1 mile South of Eastport, ID. We are a mile South of the Canadian Border just off US 95. Also, please note: Our tent campsite and RV campsite have separate booking sites but share the same shelter and toilet. If you book either site the "other" booking site is blocked during your stay. You are in a forest on land shaped by the last Ice Age, The forest has nurtured generations of of wildlife including majestic birds of prey. It sustained the Kootenai People before borders separated their lands. It saw determined miners pass this way seeking their fortune in gold from British Columbia. This forest supplied timber to build railroads and homes for families in the western migration. Our family is the current steward of this forest and it is our wish to respectfully share its beauty and observe its wildlife with your family and friends! Our Forest is surrounded by Kaniksu National Forest which is managed by the United States Forest Service (USFS) as part of the Idaho Panhandle. National Forest.. The Moyie River ( say Moy-yay) has headwaters at Moyie Lake in British Columbia and feeds into the Kootenai River (say Koo-ten-e) just East of Bonners Ferry. The Moyie River is 95 miles long. The area is private, so there is no view of the neighbors. You’ll have a broken view of the Host’s Cabin. Camp is situated on 15.4 acres of Certified Family Forest. If you hear the rumble of a train at night, it's because the Union Pacific passes along the opposite edge of the property from the campsites. There is no mobile phone service at the campsite . There is WiFi at the campsite shelter. We strongly suggest you activate the “Cell over WiFi “ function on your smartphone BEFORE you arrive/lose cell signal so you can access Emergency 911 Services. There is a fire pit (firewood provided), covered shelter, a USFS-style charcoal grill, (bring charcoal and starter), picnic table, benches, bear-proof food storage box and TEMPORARY trash bin. Please plan to "pack-out" all of your trash and recyclables. There are a lot of deer roaming the property, along with many birds and other wildlife . OUR NIGHTLY CHARGE Includes all the firewood you need and a 10% Hipcamp Service Fee. It does not include 6% Idaho Sales Tax and 2% Idaho Convention and Travel Tax. Be Bear Aware : From April 1 - November 1 all food, beverages and trash must never be left unattended and, all of the same, be stored properly. Our Bear Box is large and can accommodate your supplies and cooler.

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Arrowleaf Yurt

1 site · Lodging20 acres · Athol, ID

The yurt is a perfect getaway after a long day of exploring the PNW or for celebrating a special occasion! The pellet stove creates a cozy and warm atmosphere, perfect for snuggling up or enjoying a glass of wine nearby. Overall, the yurt offers a relaxed and indulgent experience, where you can unwind and recharge in style. Whether you're seeking tranquility in nature or the perfect setting for a romantic evening, our property offers it all.

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A Wee Place in the Woods

12 sites · Lodging5 acres · Priest River, ID

🌿 Hidden amongst towering evergreen trees lies this charming oasis that celebrates art, creativity and community. Five acres of old-growth forest, lush greenery and a rainbow-array of seasonal flowers awaits you. Stunning woodland views in every direction. Soothing sounds of a year-round creek. Active wildlife. 🌿 All guests have access to camp amenities including fully-stocked outdoor communal kitchen, fire circle, outdoor living room, creek-side trails, craft supplies, solar shower, star-gazing area and labyrinth. 🌿 Whether you seek relaxation, spiritual renewal, or the perfect location for a family reunion or special event, you’ll find it here. Meet new friends. Make new memories. We warmly welcome you! 🌿 It is our pleasure to provide complementary firewood, propane and charcoal, as well as soap and luxury shampoo during your stay at A Wee Place In The Woods. 🌿 ❣️PLEASE BRING YOUR OWN food, cooler, bedding, pillows, towels, and lanterns or flashlights.❣️

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Under the Cedars

8 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Priest River, ID

There are mountains, wetlands, meadows and forest land right in our back yard with an abundance of wildlife that don't understand boundaries. At any time, one critter or another will stroll through and feast on whatever vegetation they desire. We don't have a view of the river but it's nearby and our meadows and mountains offer a peaceful scene all its own. Camp surrounded by Old Growth Cedars and towering Grand Fir, stargaze by night, enjoy a campfire, smores and time with your family, Our peace includes little to no cellular or wifi service. We still depend on our landline phone and don't offer internet or satellite tv. Feels like we're in the country but we live on a paved county road and only 4 miles from the city of Priest River. Bring your boat for a trip on the Pend Oreille River to Lake Pend Oreille. Launching is a short distance away at the Mud Hole, Priest River City Beach or Riley Creek Campground. Try your hand at fishing for bass, kokanee, perch, northern pike, and trout in the river or on the lake. Wake up in a peaceful woodsy setting where elk, deer, the occasional moose and turkeys roam the property and are often seen in the meadow. Load up your ATV, side by side or motorcycle and head for Priest Lake right from here. It’s a 21 mile (40 minute ride) to Coolin, ID. Enjoy the back county and take some of the IDL roads along the way to explore scenic drainages and in July/August pick some luscious huckleberries (the state fruit of Idaho) for a pancake or milkshake treat. In the fall, a nice central location for hunting camp. Want to go skiing or enjoy the summer lift ride? Head up to Schweitzer Mountain, about an hour drive away (38 miles/65 mins). The city of Sandpoint and Lake Pend Oreille (Idaho's largest lake) are a half hour away (26 miles/33 mins) and Silverwood Theme Park in Athol, ID less than an hour away (36 miles/52 min).

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Small Yurt in the Woods

1 site · Lodging12 acres · Sandpoint, ID

We have created this place and lived here for over 17 years. Our two boys who are 16 and 19 love to play and create their own piece of heaven. We desire to share it with others and allow them to see the magic of yurt living. We also live in a 30-ft yurt on the property that is our special place. Learn more about this land: This 14-foot yurt is a short walk of about 50 yards from the guest parking. You will pass our 30-ft family yurt going to your own private space. The property has a great remote feeling and has space to move around. There is a queen custom bed and room for a child or two on the floor if desired. There is a small gravity feed water system for the yurt and your own private outhouse. Plenty of wood for you to stay warm by the fire inside and an outdoor shower shared by our family. The kitchen comes with pots and pans, plates, etc. and a few extras. You will hear the sounds of nature and North Idaho at times out in your yurt as trains pass through the valley to Canada. We are 1.5 miles away from the tracks. If you are into being independent and open to new experiences then we would love to share our space with you. Please pull in the drive and pull up past the big garage and park to the left by the Yurt Parking Sign. Then walk towards the trail sign and follow the path. Recommended for you to bring a headlamp and outdoor slippers to walk to the outhouse or shower during your stay. We have towels at the yurt for your use. We can provide a Therm-a-rest bed for your child if needed. Please bring your own wood for outside fires at the fire pit.

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Triple M

11 sites · Lodging15 acres · Rathdrum, ID

Triple M Camp is an 15-acre camp property located on Upper Twin Lake, ID. There are 6 cabins, situated conveniently between the cabins is the restroom with 6 showers, sinks and toilets, 3 per gender. The Pavilion, a large covered concrete area, is a short walk from the restrooms. We are not directly on the lake, but above for stunning views of it and the surrounding mountains. On the Lower Twin Lakes is the Twin Lakes Village Golf Course. Also nearby is the popular tourist town Coeur d’ Alene, ID. Silverwood Theme Park is about 20 minutes away. Not to mention several other lakes within 30 minutes.

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Schweitzer Base Camp

1 site · Lodging6 acres · Sandpoint, ID

Schweitzer Base Camp is a 6 acre property that is near Sandpoint but feels entirely remote! Someone once told me that you can measure the distance from town in steps rather than miles because it gets remote so quickly and that's entirely true here! Being a 10 minute drive outside of town makes this property feel remote but be close enough to town to grab essentials. The 6 acres include forested areas, meadow areas, and borders on a creek on the southwest side of the property. The property is shared by the Woodland Fairy Cottage and the Creekside Lodge (an Airbnb property).

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7B Cabin

2 sites · Lodging32 acres · Athol, ID

Come nurture your soul at our off-grid cabin OR our grid tied cabin with modern conveniences. Surrounded by majestic conifers, you will find yourself in a forest paradise. Make time for bird watching, star gazing and watching wildlife enjoying their natural habitat. The cabins are both situated in a very private setting opposite our main house on our 32 acre property. We are conveniently located off Hwy 95, 7 miles north of Athol, ID. Spend your days exploring nearby Farragut State Park (7 miles), Round Lake State Park (15 miles), Sandpoint (20 miles), Coeur d’Alene (30 miles), or Silverwood Theme Park (9 miles). There are multiple dining options from breakfast to dinner within 7-10 miles. We have kayaks available upon request as there are multiple small lakes (Kelso and Granite Lake) less than 5 miles away. We are generally available and on-site 24/7 for any issues, questions and or problems that may need solved. In the case you forget anything at all……we can find it, fix it or provide it. Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have. Some exceptions could be accommodated for additional tent campers in the same group on a case by case basis. Please reach out if you have a special circumstance.

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Sacred Cedars

4 sites · Lodging, Tents13 acres · Dover, ID

Sacred Cedars is home to the Sacred Cedars Wilderness School. The property is roughly 13 acres with 4 different eco-systems to explore. At the heart of the property is an ancient grove of Cedar trees, hence the name, Sacred Cedars. Sleep under the boughs of the mystical cedars. Gaze at the wetland area for a cool soothing place to chill. Sacred Cedars is raw land, and completely off-grid. We provide tent and hammock camping spots, with 2 canvas tent glamping spots.

The best camping near Priest Lake State Park guide

Overview

About

This wonderful state park is a mere 30 miles from the Canadian border, and has all of the beauty you’d expect this far north. The park is surrounded by lofty mountains, and sits along the shore of 19-mile long Priest Lake, where tons of water fun awaits. The lake is well-loved, partially due to it’s crazy clear waters (it is fed from mountain streams in the Selkirk Mountains). If you can wrangle yourself away from the lake, there’s also a dense forest to explore, and it’s overflowing with wildlife. Consider making a trip out here during the winter—the snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are tons of fun!

Notable campgrounds

Cabins at Priest Lake State Park - Cozy retreats offering a rustic yet comfortable stay in the heart of the wilderness.
Indian Creek Campground - A family-friendly spot with easy access to the lake and nature trails.
Lionhead Unit - Secluded campsites surrounded by towering trees and abundant wildlife.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your ideal spot, as reservations can fill up quickly during peak season.
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for greater availability and a quieter experience.
Keep an eye on cancellation policies and check back often for newly available sites.
Explore nearby camping options to increase your chances of finding a great site.

When to go

The best time to visit Priest Lake State Park is during the summer months when the weather is warm and all facilities are open. Winter offers a tranquil, snowy landscape, ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, though some amenities may be closed.

Know before you go

Check the park's official website for the latest updates on construction, closures, and seasonal changes in amenities.
Day-use locations are open from 7am to 10pm, with hours subject to change at the park manager's discretion.
Remember to pack out all trash and respect the natural habitat of the park's wildlife.
For safety, always be prepared for encounters with local wildlife such as bears and moose.
Accessibility varies across the park, so inquire ahead if you have specific needs.