How much does camping cost at Priest Lake State Park?

Camping fees at Priest Lake State Park are $74 - $78/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Priest Lake State Park first-come first-served or reservation?

Priest Lake State Park accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

What is the best time to visit Priest Lake State Park?

Priest Lake State Park is open Summer months (June-August) are the peak season.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Priest Lake State Park?

Yes, Priest Lake State Park has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Priest Lake State Park have?

Priest Lake State Park has 93 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Priest Lake State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed at Priest Lake State Park. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Priest Lake State Park?

Priest Lake State Park offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Sewer Hookups, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Priest Lake State Park?

Popular activities at Priest Lake State Park include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Priest Lake State Park

4.38

62 reviews

314 Indian Creek Park Rd, Coolin, Idaho, 83821-9769, United States

Top 25% in IDFall

Scenic ViewsSwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Swimming Camping Idaho

Quick Facts

2,556 ft

Price

$74 - $78/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

93 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Pets Allowed

Full HookupsPull-ThroughUp to 49 ftShowers

Book on Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

2,556 ft

Price

$74 - $78/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

93 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Pets Allowed

Full HookupsPull-ThroughUp to 49 ftShowers

Book on Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation Official Website

Get Directions

Priest Lake State Park

$74.00 - $78.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Standard campsite fees apply; non-resident fees are charged and reviewers report higher non-resident rates (some report roughly double). Specific...

No campsite fee categories listed.

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Campground Map

314 Indian Creek Park Rd, Coolin, Idaho, 83821-9769, United States

Priest Lake State Park

314 Indian Creek Park Rd, Coolin, Idaho, 83821-9769, United States

Nearby places

Coolin (4 miles, 10 minutes), Priest River (23 miles, 30 minutes), Sandpoint (40 miles, 60 minutes)

Nearby supplies

On-site park store and gas/market available in the park

additional nearby supplies not specified.

Driving directionsTake Highway 57 North from Priest River. Follow Hwy 57 for 23 miles, turn right onto Dickensheet Rd towards Coolin. Dickensheet Unit is on the right just across the bridge over the river. Go 4 miles into the town of Coolin and turn right on the East Shore Rd., just past the Inn at Priest Lake. Follow the East Shore Rd. 12 miles to the Indian Creek Unit, and 24 miles to the Lionhead Unit.

Priest Lake State Park is accessible via Highway 57 and paved roads until the Indian Creek Unit. The final three miles leading to the Lionhead Unit are unpaved, creating accessibility challenges during certain weather conditions.

Weather at Priest Lake State Park

Best Time to Camp at Priest Lake State Park

Summer delivers daytime highs of 70-80°F with cool nights in the 40s-50s, drawing the heaviest crowds to the beaches and boat ramps. The park stays open year-round, but winter means limited services and water systems shut down for the season. Weather shifts quickly in the mountains, and the lake occasionally kicks up brisk winds. Expect the highest visitor numbers on summer weekends and holidays. Reserve early if you're planning a July or August visit.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Top 25% in ID

Shoulder season with strong scenery and fewer crowds (implied; fewer explicit details).

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Summer months (June-August) are the peak season.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round; winter facilities are limited and water is typically turned off in winter.

About Priest Lake State Park

Priest Lake State Park sits on the shores of a 19-mile glacial lake in Northern Idaho's Selkirk Mountains, 30 miles south of the Canadian border. The park offers 93 campsites across multiple units (Indian Creek, Lionhead, and others), with fees running $74-78 per night. You'll find full hookups at Indian Creek's 62 sites, tent-focused camping at Lionhead, plus cabins, hot showers, and a camp store stocked with gas and firewood.

Multiple units with different offerings: Indian Creek unit includes sites with water/electric/sewer hookups and cabins; Lionhead unit is oriented toward tent camping and smaller RVs. A mix of site sizes and some cabin lodging are available.

Weather and SeasonsSummer delivers daytime highs of 70-80°F with cool nights in the 40s-50s, drawing the heaviest crowds to the beaches and boat ramps. The park stays open year-round, but winter means limited services and water systems shut down for the season. Weather shifts quickly in the mountains, and the lake occasionally kicks up brisk winds. Expect the highest visitor numbers on summer weekends and holidays. Reserve early if you're planning a July or August visit.

ElevationNestled in the protective embrace of the towering Selkirk Mountains, Priest Lake State Park occupies a unique ecological niche below the range's dramatic crest. This sheltered position creates a remarkable microclimate where diverse plant communities thrive, from sun-dappled meadows to shadowy old-growth groves. The park's varied elevation supports an intricate tapestry of life, making every hike an opportunity to explore different natural zones within this mountain sanctuary.

Natural Features and SceneryThe lake drops to 300 feet deep in places, fed by mountain streams that keep the water exceptionally clear. Sandy beaches stretch along the shoreline beneath dense forests of cedar, fir, and tamarack. Mountain slopes rise directly from the water's edge, framing views from lakefront sites. The forest canopy provides substantial shade at most campsites, though this also means trees partially obstruct lake views from sites 1, 2, 3, E, and F. Sites A, C, and D offer the clearest sightlines to the water. Ospreys patrol overhead, and the area supports black bears, moose, and whitetail deer, though reviewers note wildlife viewing without specifying which animals they've spotted.

Geological RegionCarved by ancient glaciers and shaped by millennia of natural forces, Priest Lake State Park showcases the raw beauty of Northern Idaho's Selkirk Mountain region. This 19-mile-long glacial lake sits like a sapphire jewel below the mountain crest, its exceptionally clear waters maintained by a constant flow of pure mountain streams. The surrounding landscape tells a geological story written in granite peaks and verdant valleys, where dense forests of cedar, fir, and tamarack create a living cathedral. This diverse ecosystem supports an abundance of wildlife, from the smallest forest songbirds to impressive megafauna like whitetail deer, black bears, and moose, while ospreys patrol the skies above, completing this portrait of untouched Pacific Northwest wilderness.

Scenic ViewsVisitors report spectacular mountain and lake vistas from many sites; specific sites noted for the best lake views include sites A, C, and D, while other sites (for example sites 1, 2, 3, E and F) may have partially obstructed views due to trees.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe park offers cabins and group facilities. There are also ADA-accessible yurts and cottages. RVs are not permitted in these accommodations. Lodging options are frequently praised in user reviews, with one reviewer mentioning the enjoyment of renting cabins.

Programs & ActivitiesNo specific details about cultural or educational programs were provided.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Null

Check-out

Null

Stay Limit

Null

Guests Allowed Per Site

Null

Groups

Group campsites are available, but specific capacities were not detailed.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsUseDirect-based reservation system via getoutside.idaho.gov (Idaho State Parks reservation portal)

Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability during peak times; advance booking is highly recommended due to high demand.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are subject to Idaho State Parks guidelines. Fees may apply for changes or cancellations close to the reservation dates.

Site SizeCampsites include both large and standard sizes. One reviewer mentioned a 50-foot-long, shaded site.

PrivacyPrivacy between campsites is limited. User reviews frequently mention the crowded nature of the campground, with some sites being more open to neighbors, while others offer slightly more seclusion.

Total Campsites93 campsites

Best CampsitesSites A, C, and D offer the best lake views. Site B is a pull-through that handles RVs easily. For more privacy, book adjacent sites in pairs: C with D, or E with F. At Lionhead, sites 101-120 and 140-147 sit in full shade and accommodate smaller RVs only. One reviewer mentioned a 50-foot-long shaded site, and RV site 106 at Lionhead gets specific praise.

Need help booking Priest Lake State Park?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Mix of developed campground amenities across units: showers, drinking water, vault and flush toilets, hookups and a sanitary dump, camp store/market, picnic facilities and fire rings/grills.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Sewer hookups

Flush toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Electric hookups70 of 135 sites (52%)

Water hookups71 of 135 sites (53%)

Sewer hookups11 of 135 sites (8%)

11 full hookup sites5 pull-through sitesUp to 49 ft vehicles

Things to do at Priest Lake State Park

Typical north-Idaho lake recreation: swimming and beach use, boating and canoeing, fishing, hiking and mountain biking, plus on-site family activities like disc golf and playgrounds.

Boating5.0/5Top 1% in Idaho

Boating highly recommended; 19-mile glacial lake with boat launches and mooring docks.

Hiking4.0/5

Numerous trails and short hikes around the lake and nearby mountains; several trailheads noted.

Fishing4.0/5

Reports of trout and smallmouth bass from shore, docks and small boats; lake deep and clear.

Swimming4.0/5Top 15% in Idaho

Large sandy beaches and exceptionally clear, swim-friendly water; summer is prime season.

Beach activities4.0/5

Sandy beaches stretch along shoreline (mix of sand and rocks), suitable for swimming and sunbathing.

Water Sports4.0/5

Clear lake and recommendations for small watercraft/canoes make kayaking well-suited here.

Biking3.0/5

Paved roads make the campground suitable for family biking; mountain biking also mentioned.

Wildlife viewing3.0/5

Winter Activities2.0/5

Park open year-round but winter services limited and water is typically turned off.

Signature experiences

Photography5.0/5Spectacular lake/mountain vistas, lakefront sites and strong stargazing make it highly photogenic.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsCommon issues include small car pads/parking at some sites and unmarked trails/creeks which can make navigation difficult. Cell and internet service can be intermittent or unavailable in places; typical campground hazards such as wildlife (prairie dogs, chipmunks noted by visitors) and wind should be expected.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof lockers are provided at campsites for secure food storage.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.4

62 reviews

Recommended

Priest Lake State Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Visitors consistently praise the lake's clear water, sandy beaches, scenic mountain views, clean facilities and family-friendly activities. Common negatives are non-resident fee complaints, small car pads/parking at sites, intermittent or no cell/WiFi service, and some unmarked trails or limited flushing toilets at certain units.

Review Summaries

Based on 62 reviews

What Campers Love

Crystal-clear water and sandy beaches, strong scenic and stargazing values, hot showers, well-stocked park store/market, a range of campsite options (tent sites, hookup sites, cabins), and family...

Based on 62 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The Indian Creek Campground is frequently mentioned in reviews. One user noted that it has 'a beach, fishing docks, a disc golf course, and a store.' Another described it as 'a very big and thus very...

Based on 62 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Book early (popular/sells out), pair adjacent sites for more privacy (e.g., C/D or E/F), use Indian Creek for hookups and cabins, expect limited connectivity so plan accordingly, and bring supplies...

Based on 62 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, with warm weather and opportunities for water-based activities. However, user reviews indicate that the park can become crowded during this time. Winter activities...

Based on 62 reviews

Camper Quotes

“Incredible place. Just awesome.”; “No WiFi or cell but that made it even more enjoyable.”

Based on 62 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The campground is described as dog-friendly, with one reviewer noting, 'We love the fact that they are dog-friendly.' Pets are required to be on a leash and are not allowed on beaches except in...

Based on 62 reviews

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Priest Lake State Park

$74.00 - $78.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Standard campsite fees apply; non-resident fees are charged and reviewers report higher non-resident rates (some report roughly double). Specific...

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Itinio

Provider

2084432200

Go if

Families with boats or kids who want a sandy beach and real amenities: Indian Creek has full hookups, hot showers, a camp store, fishing docks, and disc golf all in one place. Reserve sites A, C, or D early for the clearest lake views, this place books out fast for July and Augus

Skip if

Privacy matters to you, or you're coming from out of state on a tight budget. Sites are close together, non-resident fees run noticeably higher, parking pads are tight at many sites, and cell service is essentially gone, plan everything before you arrive.

Nearby Campgrounds

IDAHO PANHANDLE NATIONAL FORES

Reeder Bay sits on the eastern shore of Priest Lake in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, a short drive from Nordman. Operated by Scenic Canyons Recreational Services, this small campground offers direct lake access for boating, fishing, and swimming during the summer season. Reviewers praise the clean facilities, spacious sites, and attentive hosts, though reservations book quickly and some sites sit close to parking areas.

Priest Lake State Park

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Priest Lake State Park

Campground Map

Weather at Priest Lake State Park

Best Time to Camp at Priest Lake State Park

Planning Tips

About Priest Lake State Park

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Priest Lake State Park?

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at Priest Lake State Park

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Site-Specific Reviews

Get Notified When Available

Go if

Skip if

Explore related camping guides

Ask Camp Sage about Priest Lake State Park

Best Time to Camp at Priest Lake State Park

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Priest Lake State Park?

Amenities available

Things to do at Priest Lake State Park

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Site-Specific Reviews