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Established Camping

Bartoo Island Boat-in Campground

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Bartoo Island Boat-in Campground is located near Priest River in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. The area features forested terrain and is accessible only by boat. Campers can explore nearby Priest Lake, known for its clear waters and opportunities for fishing and boating.

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Location

Bartoo Island Boat-in Campground is located in Idaho

Detail location of campground

Directions

Campground is only reachable by boat. Travel north from Priest River, Idaho on State Highway 57 to various boat launches around the lake. To access the Kalispell Bay Boat Launch, travel on Highway 57 for 31 miles to Kalispell Bay Road. Turn east (right) until you reach West Lakeshore Road. Head south .5 miles to the boat launch.

Address

32203 Hwy 57
Priest river, ID 83856

Coordinates

48.5511111 N
116.8655556 W

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Connectivity

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    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

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Detours Nearby

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Drive Time

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Access

  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

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Reviews

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5.0

out of 5

3 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 29, 2022

First come, first serve availability

First come, first serve sites are your best bet for getting a campsite on Priest Lake during peak season. I was able to snag one of the 10ish first come sites last minute for a weekend. With it being island camping, there is less traffic, fewer people, and plenty of lakefront sites. Access was easy- put in at Hill’s Resort boat launch where I could also fill up with gas and grab anything else I may have forgotten from their gift shop like beach towels and more snacks. 

It’s about a 1.5-mile boat ride to the island and there is no dock there so I just beached it since it was pure sand. I paid for my site upon arriving in cash, then set up my very private site. It had a fire ring, picnic table, and *again, plenty of privacy* since there is no restroom on the island. 

A couple of things to note: Bring a shovel and make sure your watercraft has an Invasive Species sticker(I bought mine at Cabelas in Post Falls on the way up).

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Bartoo Island Boat-in Campground by Saraj B., June 29, 2022
  • Review photo of Bartoo Island Boat-in Campground by Saraj B., June 29, 2022
  • Review photo of Bartoo Island Boat-in Campground by Saraj B., June 29, 2022
Reviewed Jul. 20, 2021

Group Site

Large and private, nice beach, good wind block. Will definitely be back.

SiteGroup Site
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Bartoo Island Boat-in Campground by Stacy A L., July 20, 2021
  • Review photo of Bartoo Island Boat-in Campground by Stacy A L., July 20, 2021
  • Review photo of Bartoo Island Boat-in Campground by Stacy A L., July 20, 2021
  • (7) View All
Reviewed Jun. 8, 2021

Clear water and sky

If you got a boat, get to Priest Lake. The waters are a little cold but crystal clear and on a clear night, you’ll see the bulk on the Milky Way.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Bartoo Island Boat-in Campground by Alen C., June 8, 2021
  • Review photo of Bartoo Island Boat-in Campground by Alen C., June 8, 2021

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Bartoo Island for camping on Priest Lake?

Bartoo Island is accessible only by boat on Priest Lake. You'll need to have your own watercraft or rent one from nearby marinas to reach the island. The access is relatively easy by boat, and the island offers a nice beach for landing. The crystal clear waters of Priest Lake make for a beautiful journey to the campground. Once you arrive, you'll find the island provides a peaceful camping experience with less traffic and fewer people than mainland sites.

Do I need permits or reservations for camping on Bartoo Island?

Bartoo Island operates primarily on a first-come, first-served basis. There are approximately 10 first-come sites available, which can be especially valuable during peak season when reservations elsewhere might be difficult to secure. No advance reservations are accepted for these sites. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends and during summer months, to secure a spot. Contact the Idaho Department of Lands or Priest Lake State Park for information about any required permits or camping fees before your visit.

What camping facilities are available on Bartoo Island?

Bartoo Island offers primitive boat-in campsites with basic facilities. The sites are large and private, providing good wind protection and a nice beach area. Each campsite features lakefront access, making it ideal for swimming and water activities. The island layout naturally limits traffic and crowds, creating a more secluded camping experience. Facilities are minimal, so campers should prepare to be self-sufficient and pack out all trash. The island's natural setting offers stunning night sky views where you can see the Milky Way on clear nights.