Best Tent Camping near Nordman, ID

The forested landscapes surrounding Nordman, Idaho offer diverse tent camping opportunities, particularly around Priest Lake and its islands. Navigation Campground and Plowboy Campground provide walk-in tent sites accessible by a 2-hour hike from Beaver Creek or via boat. Bartoo Island and Kalispell Island boat-in campgrounds feature tent-only sites with lakefront access. Beehive Lake Dispersed camping area offers backcountry tent camping for those willing to hike to higher elevations. Trapper Creek Campground provides free primitive tent camping with both boat-in and walk-in access options.

Most tent campsites in the Nordman area feature basic amenities like fire rings and picnic tables, but lack running water. Campers should bring all necessary supplies, including drinking water and proper food storage containers due to wildlife activity. Vault toilets are available at some locations, including Navigation and Plowboy campgrounds, but many sites like Bartoo Island require campers to bring a shovel for waste disposal. Access roads to walk-in sites can be rough and may require high-clearance vehicles. Snow can block higher elevation routes until early summer, particularly at Beehive Lake and some forest service roads.

During peak summer months, first-come, first-served tent sites fill quickly at drive-in locations, while walk-in and boat-in sites often remain available. One camper noted that "while all the drive-up sites on lower Priest Lake were full, there was no one at Navigation." The extra effort required to reach these primitive tent camping areas rewards visitors with greater solitude. According to reviews, Plowboy Campground remains quiet with "only two parties camping" even during hot July weekdays. Tent campers frequently use these areas as bases for fishing, swimming, and hiking. Sites among the trees provide natural shade and protection from summer storms, with many offering direct lake access for cooling off during hot weather.

Best Tent Sites Near Nordman, Idaho (48)

    1. Bartoo Island Boat-in Campground

    3 Reviews
    Coolin, ID
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 443-2512

    $15 / night

    "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."

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

    2. Kalispell Island Boat-in Campground

    3 Reviews
    Nordman, ID
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 443-2512

    $15 / night

    "Storms all around us but the views were beautiful. Nature is beautiful. Set up our hammocks, tents and brought out fishing poles."

    "Nice to have bathrooms, although you may want to bring extra to, and decent space between you and the next campsite."

    3. Kalispell Island West Shores Campground

    1 Review
    Nordman, ID
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 443-2512

    "Vault toilet is close and easy to find in the dark. Beautiful sunsets!"

    4. Nordman Campground

    1 Review
    Nordman, ID
    3 miles
    Website

    "Nice swim beach along with lots of trails to explore. Offers both first come and reservable sites. It is on the North West side of Priest Lake and close to the thouroghfare."

    5. Navigation Campground

    2 Reviews
    Nordman, ID
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 443-2512

    "While all the drive-up sites on lower Priest Lake were full there was no one at Navigation! (Literally NO ONE)

    A few rocky beaches with boat access."

    "Nice isolated campground at the North end of Upper Priest Lake."

    6. Trapper Creek Campground

    1 Review
    Nordman, ID
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 443-2512

    "We entered the trail from the South Entrance. There’s a lot of trails that criss cross around the trail head entrances (there’s a few places to get on it). There was one steep grade on a sandy hill."

    7. Plowboy Campground

    1 Review
    Nordman, ID
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 443-2512

    8. Roman Nose

    3 Reviews
    Naples, ID
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 267-5561

    "We stayed the night in the campground near the trailhead and did a day-hike to the 3 lakes the next morning. The actual campground has 4 designated sites and a group tent area."

    "We really enjoyed the hike to the upper lakes as well."

    9. Beehive Lake Dispersed

    1 Review
    Naples, ID
    13 miles

    "This hike-in lake campground is a true alpine treasure, but be prepared to work for it! The hike to get there is pretty strenuous, with some tough climbs along the way."

    10. Pack River Dispersed Site

    2 Reviews
    Naples, ID
    18 miles

    "Remember to leave not trace and pack out your trash!"

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Showing results 1-10 of 48 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Nordman, ID

459 Reviews of 48 Nordman Campgrounds



Guide to Nordman

Tent camping near Nordman, Idaho offers a variety of scenic spots perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Tent campers should check out Kalispell Island Boat-in Campground

  • Experience the tranquility of the Kalispell Island Boat-in Campground, where you can enjoy campfires and the beauty of Priest Lake, though be prepared to bring your own firewood.
  • This campground allows pets, making it a great choice for families who want to include their furry friends in the adventure.
  • With no electric hookups or showers, this site offers a true back-to-nature experience, ideal for those looking to disconnect.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities at Bartoo Island Boat-in Campground

  • The Bartoo Island Boat-in Campground features first-come, first-served sites, providing a sense of spontaneity for those seeking a last-minute getaway.
  • Enjoy the privacy of spacious sites with picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars.
  • Although there are no restrooms, the beautiful sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters make it a worthwhile destination for a rustic camping experience.

Explore the natural beauty at Navigation Campground

  • Accessible only by boat or a hike, Navigation Campground offers solitude and stunning views, making it a hidden gem for those willing to trek in.
  • Campers can find a few rocky beaches and ample space among the trees to set up tents, ensuring a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.
  • With no drinking water available, this site encourages campers to be self-sufficient while enjoying the serene environment of Upper Priest Lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Nordman, ID?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Nordman, ID is Bartoo Island Boat-in Campground with a 5-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Nordman, ID?

TheDyrt.com has all 48 tent camping locations near Nordman, ID, with real photos and reviews from campers.