Tent campsites near Nordman, Idaho range from remote islands to high elevation alpine lakes. The region contains both free dispersed sites and established campgrounds with minimal facilities, scattered across the Kaniksu National Forest. Most tent camping locations require either boat access or hiking to reach, offering increased solitude during peak summer months.
What to do
Kayaking to island camps: Kalispell Island offers multiple tent camping areas accessible only by watercraft. "A group of us stocked up our kayak and we trekked out to Kalispell Island! Storms all around us but the views were beautiful. Nature is beautiful. Set up our hammocks, tents and brought out fishing poles," reports one camper at Kalispell Island Boat-in Campground.
Alpine lake swimming: Higher elevation camping at alpine lakes provides cooling options during hot summer days. According to one visitor to Beehive Lake Dispersed: "The alpine lake at the end of the trail is stunning—clear, pristine water surrounded by rugged mountain scenery. The water is incredibly clear, perfect for a cold dip if you're brave enough!"
Huckleberry picking: Seasonal berries grow throughout the forest, particularly at higher elevations. A Roman Nose camper notes: "If you visit during the right season, you'll find huckleberries everywhere, which is a sweet bonus after the tough hike in."
What campers like
Lakefront solitude: Boat-in camping on the islands provides privacy not found at drive-up locations. A visitor to Bartoo Island Boat-in Campground explains: "With it being island camping, there is less traffic, fewer people, and plenty of lakefront sites. Access was easy- put in at Hill's Resort boat launch where I could also fill up with gas and grab anything else I may have forgotten from their gift shop."
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. One Bartoo Island camper reported: "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 on the Milky Way."
Horse-friendly terrain: Some dispersed sites accommodate equestrian campers with adequate space. At Pack River Dispersed Site, a reviewer noted: "There are several dispersed sites up here along Pack River. Good for horses, camping and solitude."
What you should know
Site acquisition strategy: First-come, first-served sites fill differently based on accessibility. A Bartoo Island camper advises: "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."
Required equipment: Island camping requires specific gear beyond standard tent equipment. "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)," warns a Bartoo Island visitor.
Road conditions: Access roads to many camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. At Roman Nose, a camper notes: "The road is long and VERY washboarded, but you have lots of great options if you plan on doing some hiking in the area. If you're not looking to hike, I'm not sure beating up your vehicle for a solid hour on a washboarded dirt road is worth it just for camping here."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner backpacking options: Some trails offer manageable distances for children's first overnight hike. A Trapper Creek Campground visitor shares: "This is a great easygoing backpacking trip suitable for beginners. The trail a through trail! Next time I plan to come in at the north end and hike through to the south end after dropping off a car."
Lake temperature awareness: Lake water remains cold even during summer months. "The waters are a little cold but crystal clear," notes a Bartoo Island camper, making supervision essential for younger swimmers.
Strategic site selection: Consider sun exposure when selecting your campsite. A Kalispell Island camper advises: "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."
Tips from RVers
Boat-based tent camping alternative: Many RVers report parking at established campgrounds or resorts, then using boats to access tent sites on islands. "Access was easy - put in at Hill's Resort boat launch where I could also fill up with gas and grab anything else I may have forgotten from their gift shop like beach towels and more snacks," explains one Bartoo Island camper.
Wave timing for kayakers: Power boat traffic creates challenging conditions during peak hours. A Kalispell Island camper suggests: "If you kayak be wary of the afternoon as the waves get high from power boats but settle in the evening and morning."
