Osprey
4.4274 reviews1083 W. LAKESHORE ROAD
Osprey
$30.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates for Standard Nonelectric sites range from $30 to $32 per night. Out-of-season bookings are unavailable.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine western shore of Priest Lake, Osprey Campground awakens each morning to the majestic silhouette of the Selkirk Mountains reflected in crystal-clear waters. This lakeside haven invites adventurers to explore its 25,000-acre aquatic playground through boating expeditions, peaceful kayaking journeys, and world-class fishing experiences. The campground's namesake osprey soar overhead while moose wade through shallow coves, and lucky visitors might catch glimpses of grizzly and black bears, wolves, or mountain lions roaming the surrounding wilderness. Modern comforts meet natural splendor here, where paved roads wind through towering evergreens to campsites equipped with fire rings and picnic tables, all serviced by accessible facilities and flush toilets.
Osprey Campground caters to both RV and tent campers, with limited group and primitive camping options.
Historical SignificanceWhile Osprey Campground may not boast ancient ruins or historic landmarks, its story is written in the enduring appeal of Idaho's untamed wilderness. For generations, outdoor enthusiasts have pilgrimaged to this corner of the Selkirks, drawn by the same pristine waters and abundant wildlife that continue to captivate modern adventurers seeking authentic connections with nature.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Osprey Campground into an outdoor paradise, with warm, dry days averaging a comfortable 65°F perfect for swimming, hiking, and lakeside relaxation. Though the campground closes for winter, the surrounding area becomes a snowy wonderland where ice fishing enthusiasts drill through frozen lake surfaces and snowmobilers carve trails through the white-blanketed landscape, making Priest Lake a year-round destination for those who know where to look.
ElevationThe campground rests at the gentle elevation where mountain meets lake, creating the perfect basecamp for exploring both aquatic adventures and highland trails in the surrounding Selkirk range.
Natural Features and SceneryOutlet Bay serves as your gateway to natural wonder at Osprey Campground, where ancient trees stretch skyward, framing postcard-perfect views of Priest Lake's sapphire waters. This remarkable 25,000-acre alpine lake, carved by glaciers and fed by pure mountain springs, plunges to mysterious depths of 300 feet. The surrounding forest teems with life as moose browse along the shoreline, bears forage through berry patches, and deer emerge at twilight to drink from the lake's edge, creating an ever-changing tableau of wilderness drama.
Geological RegionOsprey Campground sits at the dramatic intersection of water and stone, where the rugged Selkirk Mountains rise sharply from Priest Lake's western shore. This 25,000-acre liquid jewel owes its existence to ancient geological forces and countless mountain springs that cascade down from the Selkirks' granite peaks, continuously replenishing the lake's famously clear waters that have carved this spectacular basin over millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is accessible with paved roads and spurs.
Sites SizeSites are described as 'spacious,' with some exceptions: 'Big sites with lots of space,' vs. 'Site 5 table is way far from RV parking setup.'
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Reviewers noted: 'Very private, large campsites,' and 'Semi secluded.'
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose lakefront sites for views and proximity to water activities. Sites closer to the bathrooms are convenient but can be noisier. Smaller numbered sites tend to be flatter.
Best CampsitesHighly recommended sites include site 5 (near bathrooms and kayak launch), site 13 (waterfront), site 15 (spacious and lake-adjacent), and site 6 (lakefront view).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is held until check-out on the day after scheduled arrival.
Check-out
Check-out time on the day after scheduled arrival.
Stay Limit
14 nights during any 30-day period.
Groups
Group camping specifics are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is small and hilly with 15 sites spaced apart for privacy. Lakefront sites offer the best views.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is May 16 to September 28 for 2025 and 2026. Reservations are unavailable during out-of-season months.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov website or app.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; all sites are reservable online.
Cancellation PolicyReservation changes carry a $10 change fee. Cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee if late (defined as after midnight 1 calendar day before scheduled check-in). No refunds are available for same-day cancellations.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Osprey Campground is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities. Reviewers particularly highlight hiking, fishing, and water sports.
Hiking
Hiking is popular, with nearby trails like Chipmunk Rapids Trail providing opportunities to explore Kaniksu Marsh, Priest River, and Chipmunk Rapids.Fishing
Fishing is a major draw, with anglers catching Dolly Varden, cutthroat trout, and kokanee salmon.Swimming
Limited swimming opportunities: 'Not large beach areas but fun to splash around in,' and 'No actual beach, but spots to get into the lake to swim.'Boating
Boating, canoeing, kayaking, and wakeboarding are popular summertime activities. Boaters often traverse the lake to reach Upper Priest Lake Scenic Area.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as moose, grizzly and black bears, wolves, mountain lions, and deer are commonly seen.Beach activities
Beach areas are described as very small: 'Tiny sand beaches adjacent to lakeside sites.'Winter Activities
Ice fishing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing are popular winter activities in the surrounding area.Water Sports
Includes boating, wakeboarding, kayaking, and canoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are allowed in designated fire rings. Visitors are encouraged to buy firewood locally to prevent the spread of pests.
- Quiet hours are enforced after 10 p.m.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife hazards include bears and mountain lions, making food storage a crucial safety measure. Sloped campsites and rocky beaches may pose physical challenges.
Weather forecast
82
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 20%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 2.5 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are located in Priest River, around 27 miles away, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - September 28 (2025 and 2026).
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, and the camp host empties garbage multiple times a day.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located on the western shore of Priest Lake, offering direct access to water for kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Beaches are small and rocky.
Common complaintsReviews frequently mention uneven campsites, limited beach access, and small tent spaces. Some campers complained about noise from other visitors and lack of host presence during certain periods.
HostPositive feedback about host Jim is consistent, highlighting cleanliness, attentiveness, and friendliness. Hosts sell firewood and maintain facilities regularly.
Campground Map
1083 W. LAKESHORE ROAD
Driving directionsFrom I-90, turn at Post Falls Highway 41 north to Newport. Take Highway 2 east to Priest River at the junction of Highway 57 and Highway 2. Turn left at the Texaco station on Highway 57 and drive 25 miles to Outlet Bay Road. Turn right for approximately 0.5 miles and left on Lakeshore Road. There is a directional sign pointing the way to Osprey Campground.
Campground roads and parking spurs are paved, offering easy access for vehicles. Directions mention clear signposts, although the campground is somewhat secluded near Priest Lake, requiring a 25-mile drive on Highway 57.Nearby places
Priest River (~27 miles, approximately 30 minutes by car)
Newport (~35 miles)
Post Falls (~75 miles).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Priest River, approximately 27 miles away. Additional essentials can be found in Newport, roughly 35 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
74 reviews
Osprey is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's quiet atmosphere, clean facilities, and scenic location. Complaints range from small, uneven sites to poor beach access.
Review Summaries
Based on 74 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include well-maintained bathrooms, spacious campsites, and friendly camp hosts like Jim: 'Jim is the best campground host I have ever met.'
Based on 74 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common issues include small tent spaces, sloped sites, and limited beach access. 'Most sites are on major hillside slants,' and 'No beach to speak of.'
Based on 74 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Recommended to choose lakeside sites for flatter terrain and better views. Reviewers advise dealing with mosquitoes in early summer and bringing smaller tents for uneven sites.
Based on 74 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Mosquitoes are prevalent in early summer, making late summer a better option. Winter activities like snowmobiling are popular.
Based on 74 reviewsCamper Quotes
Direct quotes: 'Bathrooms were awesome,' 'Beautiful view of the lake,' 'The campground is very wooded, offering a secluded feeling.'
Based on 74 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 15 is noted for privacy and proximity to bathrooms but has small, uneven tent space. Site 5 is close to bathrooms and kayak launch but has uneven ground.
Based on 74 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible facilities with paved roads and parking.
Based on 74 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Some mention of dogs, but no specific pet policies are outlined.
Based on 74 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025