Reservations are available and run $30 to $32 per night at this National Forest campground on the shores of Priest Lake, where the access road can be rough enough to warrant checking your rig clearance before arrival. Sites vary considerably in position: lakefront spots put campers directly on the water, while others sit a short walk from the beach. Roger L., who brought a 26-foot travel trailer, noted the campground is "very quiet" but flagged that larger rigs may find some sites a tight fit. The campground accommodates RVs up to 99 feet, though dry camping only applies here, with no hookups available.
Water access is a consistent draw. The lake is clear and cold, with a sandy beach that reviewers mention repeatedly. Chimney Rock provides a recognizable landmark across the water. Fishing and hiking trails round out the activity options, and camp hosts are present but low-key. Families with children appear regularly, and the atmosphere on summer weekends reflects that. One practical bonus: the adjacent Elkins Road leads to a nearby resort with a restaurant, bar, and convenience store within walking distance, which reduces the need to pack in everything.
The campground sits within Idaho Panhandle National Forests, and the season runs mid-May through mid-September. Campers heading to this corner of northern Idaho can also find places to camp near Nordman if Reeder Bay is fully booked. The Indian Creek Campground at Priest Lake State Park is another option in the area. Book early if lakefront sites are the priority, since those fill well ahead of interior spots.
Description
Overview
Reeder Bay Campground is a picturesque hideaway for nature immersion and relaxing water sports on Priest Lake. Campsites are shaded by a dense forest of cedar, fir and hemlock. Campers visit Reeder for its incredible beach that slopes down into the refreshing, clear lake.
Recreation
Wake boarding, jet skiing, bird watching and canoeing are among the many activities campers enjoy. Hike the 8-mile Lakeshore Trail which passes through alder, pine, young cedar and open hillsides of brush, providing memorable scenic views throughout the journey. Anglers seek Dolly Varden and cutthroat trout, as well as kokanee salmon, on the lake and nearby Priest River.
Facilities
Reeder Bay boasts accessible facilities and paved roads and parking spurs. Amenities include a pressurized water system with hydrants, flush toilets and overflow gravel parking areas.
Natural Features
The campground is situated on the eastern shore of Priest Lake, nestled deep below the crest of the Selkirk Mountains. The lake spans 19 miles in length and reaches a depth of 300 feet. Priest Lake is noteworthy for its incredibly clear waters, fed by streams cascading from the high Selkirk peaks. A variety of wildlife inhabits the surrounding area, including deer, elk, moose, grizzly and black bears, wolves and mountain lions.
Nearby Attractions
Explore the extensive trail system around the lake. The Upper Priest Lake Trail takes hikers and mountain bikers to the Upper Priest Lake Scenic Area, which can also be accessed by boat.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
There is currently no drinking water available at Reeder Bay. We apologize for the inconvenience. The restrooms are operational.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsReeder Bay Campground is located in Idaho near Nordman
Directions
From I-90 at Post Falls, turn north onto Highway 41 to Newport. Turn right on Highway 2/200 east to Priest River. Turn north (left) on Highway 57 to Nordman 37 miles, then turn right at Y junction and drive 3 miles to Reeder Bay.
Address
IDAHO PANHANDLE NATIONAL FORES
ID
Coordinates
48.6252 N
116.8918806 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 7/22/26
AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 7/22/26
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 44 min from Coeur d'Alene, ID
- 1 hr 52 min from Spokane, WA
- 3 hrs 36 min from Lewiston, ID
- 4 hrs 21 min from Wenatchee, WA
