Baritoe Campground

Introduction / Overview

For Idaho locals dreaming of a true wilderness escape, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Bartoo Island Campground on the magnificent Priest Lake offers an unparalleled opportunity. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's an immersive experience in the heart of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, designed for those who appreciate the untouched beauty of nature. Bartoo Island, as the name suggests, is an island retreat, making it exclusively accessible by boat. This unique feature ensures a serene, less crowded environment, allowing visitors to truly disconnect and revel in the tranquility of the lake and surrounding forests. With its stunning clear waters, abundant wildlife, and a range of activities from fishing to exploring, Bartoo Island Campground is a highly sought-after destination for adventurous families, groups, and individuals. It offers a rustic yet incredibly rewarding camping experience, promising unforgettable memories against the backdrop of Priest Lake's breathtaking scenery. The feeling of arriving at your campsite by water, stepping onto a sandy beach, and being surrounded by such pristine nature, is what makes Bartoo Island a truly "epic" destination for Idahoans.

Location and Accessibility

Bartoo Island Campground is located within the vast and beautiful Priest Lake, ID 83856, USA. While the provided address refers to Priest Lake generally, it's vital to understand that Bartoo Island itself is, as its name implies, an island. This means the campground is exclusively accessible by boat. For Idaho locals, reaching Priest Lake is a relatively straightforward drive through North Idaho's scenic landscapes. Various public and private boat launches around the lake, such as the Kalispell Bay Boat Launch, serve as primary departure points for campers heading to Bartoo Island. Once at a launch, visitors will need their own boat or a rental to navigate the clear waters of Priest Lake to Bartoo Island. The island is situated roughly six miles from the south end of Priest Lake, making for a pleasant boat ride across the sparkling waters. This boat-in access is a key part of the Bartoo Island experience, providing a sense of seclusion and adventure that sets it apart from roadside campgrounds. The journey itself becomes an integral part of the outdoor adventure, with stunning views of the surrounding Selkirk Mountains and the pristine lake. This unique accessibility ensures that while it feels wonderfully remote, it remains within reach for those in Idaho seeking a distinctive camping experience.

Services Offered

• Boat-In Only Access: The campground is exclusively accessible by boat, providing a unique and secluded camping experience.
• Individual Campsites: Bartoo Island features 24 single campsites spread across various locations, as well as a group site, offering privacy and space.
• First-Come, First-Served & Reservations: While some sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, many can also be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov, especially for group sites.
• Vault Toilets: Basic vault toilets are available at several locations, including Sunshine Campsite and Lone Pine day use area, though campers are advised to bring their own portable toilets.
• No Potable Water: Campers must bring their own drinking water, as no potable water is available on the island.
• Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring for campfires (adhering to fire restrictions).
• Picnic Tables: Provided at each site for outdoor dining and convenience.
• Pack It In, Pack It Out: Visitors are responsible for packing out all trash and waste to maintain the pristine environment.
• Bear-Resistant Food Storage: While not explicitly stated for every site, proper food storage is essential due to the presence of bears, deer, and moose.

Features / Highlights

• Stunning Priest Lake Setting: The campground is surrounded by the "clear waters of Priest Lake," known for its incredible beauty and as a major tourist attraction for water sports enthusiasts and photographers.
• Boat-In Seclusion: The exclusive boat-in access creates a truly secluded and tranquil environment, making it an ideal "getaway from the rest of the world," as one review highlights.
• Beautiful Sandy Beaches: Customers love the "sand on this boat up only day use and camping," indicating delightful beach access for swimming and relaxation.
• Fishing Paradise: Priest Lake is renowned for its fishing, with species like Mackinaw trout (including record-breaking ones), Dolly Varden, Cutthroat, and Kokanee. "Bring the fishing poles and test your luck on the water!"
• Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to observe diverse wildlife, including bears, deer, and moose, in their natural habitat.
• Access to Upper Priest Lake Scenic Area: Visitors can kayak, canoe, or power boat up the 3.5-mile thoroughfare that leads to the car-inaccessible Upper Priest Lake Scenic Area, offering further exploration.
• Hiking Trails Nearby: Access to the Lakeshore and Beach Trails along the west shore of Priest Lake, providing scenic walking opportunities.
• Huckleberry Picking: From mid-July to early fall, sweet huckleberries can be found in abundance throughout the surrounding forests.
• Group Camping Options: Bartoo Island offers a group site (Sunrise Group Site) that can accommodate 10-30 individuals, perfect for larger gatherings.
• Rugged Yet Rewarding Experience: Described as a "rugged, but highly rewarding, camping experience," appealing to those seeking an authentic outdoor adventure.

Contact Information

Address: Priest Lake, ID 83856, USA (Bartoo Island, Priest Lake)

Phone: (208) 443-2512 (This number is for general campground inquiries related to the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, which manages Bartoo Island Campground.)

Mobile Phone: +1 208-443-2512

For specific site availability or reservations, it is highly recommended to check the Recreation.gov website for "Bartoo Island Boat-IN Campground."

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents of Idaho, Bartoo Island Campground on Priest Lake is more than just a camping spot; it's an iconic and highly suitable destination that embodies the very essence of the Gem State's renowned outdoor lifestyle. Its unique boat-in access provides a degree of seclusion and tranquility that is increasingly rare in popular camping areas, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking genuine escape and connection with nature. This exclusivity ensures a quieter experience, allowing locals to fully unwind and appreciate the pristine environment of Priest Lake without the usual crowds. The availability of diverse campsites, including individual and group options, caters to various needs, from a solo fishing trip to a large family gathering. The reviews, despite their unconventional language, clearly convey a deep satisfaction, with one mentioning "Love the sand on this boat up only day use and camping," highlighting the appealing beach areas. The abundance of recreational activities, from world-class fishing for Mackinaw trout to swimming in crystal-clear waters and exploring nearby hiking trails or the Upper Priest Lake Scenic Area, means there's something for every outdoor enthusiast. While it's a primitive campground requiring campers to be self-sufficient (e.g., bringing water and portable toilets), this aspect appeals to the independent spirit of many Idahoans who cherish a true wilderness experience. Bartoo Island Campground offers a chance to create lasting memories, whether it's through a bonfire under a star-filled sky, a refreshing dip in the lake, or simply soaking in the "magical" surroundings of Priest Lake. It represents an authentic, rewarding, and easily accessible slice of Idaho's natural paradise, making it an ideal choice for locals eager to embrace their state's magnificent outdoors.

Baritoe Campground

Priest Lake, ID 83856, USA