Nordman, Idaho camping options include both lakefront and forest sites at elevations between 2,400-2,700 feet. The area experiences warm summer days with temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F but cooler nights that can drop to 45-55°F, making layered clothing essential. Winter camping is limited, with only Indian Creek Campground remaining open year-round for hardy cold-weather campers.
What to do
Water activities on Priest Lake: Visitors at Luby Bay Campground appreciate the clear, cold water perfect for swimming. "The LAKE is amazing. Boating to the islands for the day is so much fun. In N Idaho we work hard so we can camp," notes Francie M. The lake's white sand beaches are unusual for northern Idaho.
Island exploration: Priest Lake's islands offer unique camping experiences at Kalispell Island Boat-in Campground. "A group of us stocked up our kayak and we trekked out to Kalispell Island! Storms all around us but the views were beautiful," shares Missy S. Morning and evening paddling is recommended as afternoon boat traffic creates larger waves.
Hiking trails: Several trails around the campgrounds provide opportunities to explore. At Lionhead Campground, a camper mentions, "There are numerous trails to explore and the beach is beautiful white sand with crystal clear water." The Hunt Lake Trail offers a more challenging hike but rewards with scenic views.
Fishing: Priest Lake has excellent fishing opportunities. "You will see lots of moose, and sometimes black bears. If you take the short hike to Moose lake, there is excellent rainbow trout fishing, and gorgeous scenery as well," explains Jeff W., who worked at Priest Lake State Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Osprey Campground, campers value the seclusion. "Complete privacy between trees and underbrush, no road noise, walking trails, flushing toilets and beach access where we felt comfortable leaving our SUPs tied for two days," reports Angelina H. The campground's natural vegetation creates a buffer between sites.
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location offers exceptional night sky viewing, especially from boat-in sites. "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 of the Milky Way," says Alen C. about Bartoo Island camping.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds in the area maintain high standards for restrooms and general cleanliness. "The bathrooms are impressively clean—better than many I've encountered at other campgrounds," notes one Luby Bay camper. Most developed campgrounds offer flush toilets, while more remote locations have vault toilets.
Beach quality: Sandy beaches are a highlight for many campers. "The beach area is phenomenal!!!! Nice sand and amazing afternoon shade!" exclaims Nanette C. about Luby Bay Campground. The sandy shorelines make for comfortable lounging and swimming access.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Competition for sites is fierce, especially for group areas. "Reservations are 9 months in advance and it is a phone call of luck that will get you this prime area," explains a camper about the group camping area at Priest Lake State Park. Booking early is essential for summer weekends.
Fee structure: Idaho state parks have implemented differential pricing for out-of-state visitors. "All the state (not Federal) parks at both Priest and Lake Pend Oreille have become prohibitively expensive for out of staters," notes Buck. Non-resident fees can be twice as high as resident rates, plus additional vehicle fees.
Bear safety: Bear-proof storage is provided at many campgrounds. "Each site comes with a bear-proof locker, which is essential for safety," states a Luby Bay reviewer. Proper food storage is necessary throughout the area to prevent wildlife encounters.
Boat-in camping preparations: When planning to camp on islands, prepare accordingly. "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)," advises Saraj B. about Bartoo Island. There are no facilities on some islands, so pack accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Day-use beach access: For campsites without direct lake access, Reeder Bay Campground offers alternatives. "This specific site wasn't lakefront but was only a short 3 min walk to gorgeous lake views and beach access," shares Saraj B. Some campgrounds allow day-use parking near beaches for a fee.
Kid-friendly amenities: Ice cream is available at Indian Creek's store, making it a hit with families. "All the state parks at Priest Lake have a store with everything you could need and ice cream by the scoop," mentions Scott B. The campground also features a new frisbee golf course.
Site selection for families: When booking, consider sun exposure throughout the day. "When choosing a site remember sunrise and sunset as I was lucky to have a place on the south side so there was shade during the hottest parts of the day and less sun at 5am when you want to sleep," advises Callie B. about Kalispell Island.
Beach activities: The sandy beaches at many Priest Lake campgrounds provide safe play areas. "The campgrounds are safe for kids, well maintained and supervised by camp hosts," states Francie M. about Luby Bay. The shallow water entry at many beaches is ideal for younger children.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions and access: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs. At Outlet Campground, the sites are "a bit close together" according to Saraj B. At Reeder Bay, Roger L. notes, "A little tight for our 26 foot grand design travel trailer. Limited spots for this size rig."
Road conditions: The narrow roads at some campgrounds can make maneuvering difficult. "The road through the campground is paved but narrow, roughly 1.5 vehicles wide, so backing in a trailer requires some finesse," warns a Luby Bay reviewer.
Hookups and facilities: Most campgrounds offer limited or no hookups. "No hookups. Dry camping only," states Roger L. about Reeder Bay Campground. For those needing full hookups, Indian Creek Campground at Priest Lake State Park is one of the few options with water, electric, and sewer connections.
