BARTOO ISLAND GROUP SITE

For those in Idaho seeking an authentic and truly memorable group camping experience, Bartoo Island Group Site on the pristine waters of Priest Lake offers an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourselves in the natural beauty of the Inland Northwest. This unique group campsite, nestled on Bartoo Island, stands apart as an exclusively boat-in destination, providing a level of seclusion and tranquility that is increasingly rare. Designed for groups ranging from 10 to 30 individuals, it's the perfect setting for family reunions, scout adventures, or friend getaways where the goal is to share a rustic, rewarding outdoor experience. While the beauty of the location is undeniable, as evidenced by its "Beautiful beach and water," campers should be prepared for a genuine wilderness experience, complete with its natural inhabitants, including "insane" yellow jackets at times.

The allure of Bartoo Island Group Site lies in its untouched natural environment and the sense of adventure that comes with reaching it. Imagine cruising across the clear, deep blue waters of Priest Lake, surrounded by the majestic Selkirk Mountains, knowing that your destination is an island retreat accessible only by boat. This unique accessibility immediately sets the tone for a secluded and intimate gathering, far removed from the sounds of road traffic and typical campground bustle. The reviews highlight the stunning visuals, with "Great beach" areas perfect for relaxing and enjoying the "early sunrise and sunset" views, even with tall trees providing welcome shade.

What truly makes Bartoo Island Group Site a distinctive choice for Idahoans is its emphasis on self-reliance and a deep connection with nature. This is not a glamping experience, but rather an opportunity to embrace primitive camping with essential amenities provided. The requirement to "bring your own portable toilets" and that "no drinking water is available" underscores the rugged charm. However, for those prepared for this level of wilderness immersion, the rewards are immense: fantastic birding, wildlife viewing (including bears, deer, and moose), and the chance to fish for record-breaking Mackinaw trout in the renowned Priest Lake. Despite the potential for "horrible swarming bee problem," the overwhelming sentiment from visitors is a strong desire to "definitely come back here again," speaking volumes about the site's unique appeal and the unforgettable experiences it offers.

Bartoo Island Group Site is located on the east side of Bartoo Island, one of nine islands on the expansive Priest Lake, near Coolin, ID 83821, USA. Its address of E Shore Rd, Coolin, ID is the general area for accessing Priest Lake, but it's crucial to understand that the actual campsite on Bartoo Island is "only reachable by boat." This "boat-in" accessibility is a defining characteristic of the campground, ensuring a secluded and tranquil experience far from road noise and easily accessed crowds.

To reach Bartoo Island, visitors typically launch their boats from various points around Priest Lake. Popular access points include public boat launches like the one at Kalispell Bay, or private marinas such as Hill's Resort in Coolin, where one reviewer mentioned being able to "fill up with gas and grab anything else I may have forgotten." The boat ride to the island is described as being around "1.5-miles," a pleasant journey across the clear waters. There are no docks at the individual island campsites, so campers should be prepared to "beach it" on the sand, which adds to the rustic island adventure.

Priest Lake itself is a magnificent 25,000-acre body of water in the northern portion of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, approximately 30 miles south of the Canadian border. The lake is fed by the Priest River and is known for its exceptionally clear, deep blue waters. While the main land-based access to the Priest Lake area is via Highway 57, reaching Bartoo Island requires a watercraft. This unique accessibility method, combined with the island's elevation of 2,400 feet, truly immerses campers in the remote and rugged beauty of Northern Idaho, making the journey an integral part of the adventure.

• Group campsite specifically designed for 10-30 individuals (Sunrise Group Site, also known as site #23, renumbered from #001).
• Designated picnic tables at the campsite for communal dining.
• Fire rings for campfires (check for current fire restrictions before lighting).
• "Pack it in, pack it out" policy for all trash and waste; visitors must bring their own garbage bags.
• Requires campers to bring their own portable toilets (toilet buckets may be available for checkout at the Kalispell Boat Launch).
• No drinking water available; visitors must bring all their own potable water.
• Beach access for swimming and cooling off.
• Allowed pets (must be leashed at all times).
• Quiet hours observed from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
• 14-day camping limit.
• Campsite must be occupied on the first night of the reservation.
• Reservations available (60% reservable, 40% first-come, first-served in some cases, check Recreation.gov).
• Boat-in access only for all sites on Bartoo Island.

• Exclusive Boat-In Access: The most defining feature is that Bartoo Island Group Site is "only reachable by boat." This ensures a unique, secluded, and peaceful camping experience, far from vehicle noise and crowds, offering a true wilderness immersion.

• Stunning Priest Lake Setting: Located on Bartoo Island within the clear waters of 25,000-acre Priest Lake, the campground boasts "Beautiful beach and water." The surroundings are incredibly scenic, with views of the Selkirk Mountains and a "gorgeous scene for a wedding," as one reviewer noted.

• Ideal for Groups: Specifically designated as a group site, it can accommodate 10-30 people, making it perfect for larger gatherings like family reunions or club outings, providing ample space for everyone.

• Rugged & Rewarding Camping: It offers a "rugged, but highly rewarding, camping experience." This is for those who appreciate primitive camping elements, like bringing their own toilet and water, in exchange for unparalleled natural beauty and solitude.

• Excellent Water Recreation: With direct beach access, visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing for record-breaking Mackinaw trout, and all types of boating, including kayaking, canoeing, and power boating, with a 3.5-mile thoroughfare leading to Upper Priest Lake Scenic Area.

• Abundant Wildlife and Nature: The area is fantastic for "birding and wildlife viewing," with common sightings including bears, deer, and moose. Huckleberry picking is also a popular activity from mid-July to early fall.

• Picturesque Sunrises and Sunsets: Though "sunrise and sunset are early with tall trees shading the beach well before the sun sets," the views are still magnificent, providing a beautiful backdrop to the camping experience.

• True Disconnect: With no drinking water or trash services on the island (pack it in, pack it out), it encourages a greater sense of self-reliance and environmental responsibility, allowing campers to truly disconnect from modern conveniences.

Address: E Shore Rd, Coolin, ID 83821, USA (Note: This is a general access point for Priest Lake; the site itself is boat-in only on Bartoo Island).

Phone: (208) 443-2512

Mobile Phone: +1 208-443-2512

For residents of Idaho, particularly those in the northern region, Bartoo Island Group Site on Priest Lake represents a quintessential and deeply rewarding local outdoor experience. Its identity as a boat-in only campground immediately sets it apart, offering Idahoans a unique opportunity for true seclusion and an immersive wilderness adventure without leaving their home state. This exclusive access ensures a quieter, less crowded environment, which is highly valued by those seeking a genuine escape from the daily grind and a deeper connection with nature.

The very nature of Bartoo Island Group Site appeals to the independent spirit often found in Idahoans. The "rugged, but highly rewarding" experience, including the requirement to bring your own water and portable toilet, encourages self-reliance and a more authentic camping journey. This isn't just a place to set up camp; it's an invitation to embrace the outdoors on its own terms, a challenge many locals relish. The stunning natural beauty—the "Beautiful beach and water," the surrounding Selkirk Mountains, and the opportunities for "stunning night sky" views—showcases the best of Idaho's pristine wilderness, accessible directly from their backyard.

Furthermore, the recreational opportunities are perfectly tailored to the active Idaho lifestyle. Priest Lake is renowned for its fishing (especially for Mackinaw trout), boating, and swimming, all of which are immediately available from the island campsite. The chance for "fantastic birding and wildlife viewing," including sightings of deer, moose, and even bears, offers educational and awe-inspiring moments. While acknowledging the potential for "insane" yellow jackets, this is a part of wilderness camping that experienced Idaho outdoors enthusiasts are often prepared to manage. Ultimately, Bartoo Island Group Site provides an unparalleled opportunity for Idahoans to gather their friends and family, embark on a unique water-based adventure, and create lasting memories in one of their state's most cherished and beautiful natural settings, truly embodying the spirit of Idaho's wild heart.

BARTOO ISLAND GROUP SITE

E Shore Rd, Coolin, ID 83821, USA