Priest Lake State Park spans 2,000 acres of forested terrain at 2,500 feet elevation in the northern Idaho panhandle. Camping options near Nordman, Idaho range from primitive tent sites to upscale glamping accommodations, with most facilities open from May through September. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 45-55°F at night.
What to do
Paddling adventures: The Pend Oreille River system offers diverse water recreation beyond Priest Lake. Visitors at Edgewater Campground can enjoy "fishing, swimming, yard games, fire pit, and very dog friendly with a fenced dog park," according to Ann W. The campground has a "nice boat launch and fishing pier" for easy water access.
Hiking trails: Explore the densely wooded terrain on well-maintained paths. At South Skookum Lake Campground, "the lake loop takes about 45 minutes to complete," notes Marcus K. The campground features "a nice trail that goes around the lake where you will see a variety of wildlife," adds Scott B.
Wildlife viewing: The region hosts diverse forest animals throughout the seasons. At Sullivan Lake Campground, campers can trek part of "the lakeshore trail and find some beautiful views and even a rope swing," reports Sam M. Keep your distance from wildlife and store food properly in bear-proof containers available at most established campgrounds.
What campers like
Private campsites: Many campgrounds feature natural separation between sites. At South Skookum Lake Campground, "camp host very friendly, plenty of wood available throughout campground, and bundles for sale as well. I love how private the campsites feel! Thick trees are always a plus," writes Chrissy E.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain high standards for restrooms and common areas. One camper highlighted that South Skookum "has the cleanest restrooms I have ever seen. Gets cold at night and will rain at times, but other than that the campsite is beautiful."
Lake swimming: Clear waters provide cooling relief during summer months. At Round Lake State Park Campground, "the swimming area is nice with kind of sandy beach," reports Jason S., though he notes "there is a bit of seaweed in the swimming area. There are also two docks perfect for fishing."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping close to Nordman, Idaho requires advance booking. For Lionhead Campground — Priest Lake State Park, Yuki B. advises: "Reservations are 9 months in advance and it is a phone call of luck that will get you this prime area."
Off-grid connectivity: Cell coverage varies significantly across campgrounds. At South Skookum Lake, there's "no cell service or hookups. There is one manual pump water fixture," says Scott B. Some locations offer limited service near entrance areas: "We stayed outside number four which is close to the entrance. The beauty of being so close to it there is cell service," notes Marcus K.
Non-resident fees: Some Idaho state parks charge higher fees for out-of-state visitors. One camper reported: "All the state (not Federal) parks at both Priest and Lake Pend Oreille have become prohibitively expensive for out of staters... A basic campsite (no utilities) can now cost upwards of $70 per night."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Many campgrounds offer kid-friendly water activities. Blue Lake RV Resort provides "paddle boats, kayaks, paddle boards and a floating trampoline. The little lake is full of catfish and turtles that you can feed," according to Don R.
Educational experiences: Some parks feature nature learning centers. Round Lake State Park has "a cool place for kids to learn about the wildlife in the area with foot prints in sand, bird calls, samples of the different types of trees and more," shares Heather M.
Family-friendly glamping: Several resorts offer upgraded comfort near Nordman. Blue Lake RV Resort isn't "really a fancy place but it's all the little things that make it great. The bathrooms are kept fantastic, the owners are really friendly and don't treat you as a bother," reports Don R.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose campgrounds with suitable RV accommodations. At Yaak River Campground, Always C. notes: "I would not recommend anything over 25 ft but that's me. Our 34RLSA 5er couldn't get in. Deep woods feel with all the trees and shade. Solar would be a challenge."
Hookup location issues: Check utility placement before setting up. At Beaver Lodge Resort, John L. reports: "The hookups were not in good spots. The electric was at the front and shared, only one 30 and one 50, and the water/sewer was at the back end. We needed a 50' hose to reach and the electric was tight. Everyone had the same complaint."
Electric reliability: Power connections may be inconsistent in certain seasons. At Round Lake State Park, Nic F. found that "there was only one hookup spot plowed, and its connectivity was not stable" during winter camping, suggesting the need for backup power systems during cold weather stays.
