Cabins near Nordman, Idaho offer direct access to the Selkirk Mountains and Priest Lake, with elevations ranging from 2,400 to over 7,000 feet at mountain peaks. The area receives significant snowfall from November through April, with summer daytime temperatures typically reaching 75-85°F. Most cabin rentals in the region become fully booked 6-9 months in advance during peak summer months.
What to do
Water activities at Priest Lake: Multiple campgrounds offer lake access. Cody H. at Lionhead Campground notes: "Ended our tour of Northern Idaho at spot #140. Tons of flat area to put down a tent, mosquito shade (they are pretty bad), and enjoy the amazing view!"
Paddle to Upper Priest Lake: The thoroughfare connects upper and lower lakes. At Blue Lake RV Resort, campers can practice paddling skills before tackling the bigger lakes. Alana R. shares: "I got to do yoga by the lake at sunrise, not too buggy and I saw lots of turtles."
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds stock their lakes with various fish species. At Little Diamond Lake, fishing is free and accessible. Steven K. from Indian Creek Campground reports: "We did get some fishing in for cutthroat and lake trout. Cutthroat are catch and release so we had to be pretty careful, but the lake trout tasted amazing."
What campers like
Private beach access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated shoreline areas. At Kootenai River Campground, Patrick B. appreciates: "They have a path you can walk down right to the Kootanie river with chairs and picnic tables to sit on. Very nice."
On-site activities: Some resorts provide equipment rentals and amenities. Don R. from Blue Lake RV Resort explains: "They have paddle boats, kayaks, paddle boards and a floating trampoline. The little lake is full of catfish and turtles that you can feed."
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife. Crystal C. at Lionhead Campground observes: "I've been to Priest countless times. Camp in the woods or on the beach. Upper or lower Priest Lake."
Disc golf course: Some campgrounds offer recreational facilities. Steven K. at Indian Creek Campground shares: "Started by playing frisbee golf at their awesome new course. Had our puppy with us and he had an absolute blast."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Summer bookings require advance planning. Rich S. from Thousand Trails Little Diamond advises: "Peaceful at night, nice pines surrounding sites, friendly and attentive staff, and a ton of activities. Pool, hot tub, nice lake for fishing and boating, laundry facilities that take cards."
Seasonal limitations: Most facilities operate on limited schedules. Garry S. notes about Thousand Trails Little Diamond: "Thousand Trails Member, this is a first come, first served, so get here early, they fill up fast! Electric/Water only, does have dump station available."
Out-of-state fees: Idaho state parks charge higher rates for non-residents. Buck at Lionhead Campground warns: "All the state (not Federal) parks at both Priest and Lake Pend Oreille (Farragut) have become prohibitively expensive for out of staters."
Mosquito preparation: Insect protection is essential in summer months. Cody H. at Lionhead Campground recommends: "Tons of flat area to put down a tent, mosquito shade (they are pretty bad), and enjoy the amazing view!"
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Several resorts maintain safe swimming zones. Heather J. at Lionhead Campground shares: "Very family friendly place. I really just wish more places would allow dogs at the beach or even have a nice sectioned off part for the doggies."
Ice cream options: Local stores offer treats for kids. Luke R. from Indian Creek Campground mentions: "The sites are pretty close but have nice facilities throughout the campground. Including a nice store with an Ice cream shop, a family favorite."
Cabin alternatives: For families wanting more comfort than tents, North Haven Campground offers modern accommodations. David P. reports: "They have luxury cabins and covered wagon glamping. Very family and senior friendly. Reasonably priced, can't loose booking here."
Recreation variety: Multiple activity options keep children entertained. Aaron M. at Beaver Lodge Resort says: "Perfect lake to swim in that is connected to a larger ski lake with a channel so there is not heavy boat traffic on the ski lake."
Tips from RVers
Site configuration challenges: Some campgrounds have unusual hookup placements. John L. at Beaver Lodge Resort explains: "The spot we had for a 29' was a little tight but there was enough room between the RVs. Problem we had was that much of the grounds were empty but we had a camper on either side. Also, the hookups were not in good spots."
Campground navigation: Access roads vary in quality. Lauren R. about Blue Lake RV Resort notes: "Everything everyone says about the pot holes, dirt road, train noise and turn off from the 95 is spot on."
Shower facilities: Quality varies between locations. Gary K. reviewing Thousand Trails Little Diamond observes: "Bathroom showers are ok. Laundry is good. There is a small lake free fishing, didn't fish. We stayed in the Thousand Trails side, it is a split park with KOA on the other side."
