Outlet Campground at Priest Lake

For Idaho locals dreaming of a picturesque lakeside escape, Outlet Campground at Priest Lake offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the pristine beauty of North Idaho. Located on the southwest shore of Priest Lake, where the Priest River begins its journey, this campground is a jewel within the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking sunshine, exceptional fishing, diverse water activities, and breathtaking views of the rugged Selkirk Mountains.

Outlet Campground is renowned for its stunning natural setting and meticulous upkeep. Visitors consistently praise it as a "beautiful spot" and a "beautiful campground right on the lake!" The commitment to maintaining a well-kept environment is evident, with reviews specifically highlighting that "the bathrooms were very clean." This dedication ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay, allowing campers to focus on the serene surroundings and recreational opportunities.

The experience at Outlet Campground is deeply connected to its unique location on Priest Lake, one of Idaho’s largest and most beautiful lakes. Imagine waking up to the gentle lapping of waves, with easy access to a swimming beach, perfect for a refreshing dip or sunbathing. The lake itself is a haven for water enthusiasts, offering fantastic opportunities for fishing (including the famous Mackinaw trout), kayaking, canoeing, and power boating. The ability to explore the 2.5-mile thorofare leading to the Upper Priest Lake Scenic Area adds another layer of adventure, providing access to a truly unspoiled wilderness accessible only by boat.

While the natural beauty is undeniable, it’s wise for Idahoans planning a trip to be prepared for the realities of outdoor camping. As one reviewer noted, "The yellow jackets were terrible while we were there. Couldn't cook meat of any kind without being swarmed." Another mentioned, "The mosquitos were also particularly bad this weekend, so be sure to pack your bug spray!" These are common challenges in many natural areas, especially during peak summer months, and can be mitigated with proper insect repellent and strategic food handling. Consider visiting "early in the season," as suggested by a savvy camper, to potentially avoid peak insect activity.

It's also important to note a specific amenity detail: "Be advised that there are no showers at this campground, but there are flushing toilets and sinks." This information helps campers set appropriate expectations and plan accordingly. Despite the lack of showers, the presence of flush toilets and sinks ensures a higher level of comfort than many more primitive Forest Service campgrounds.

This article will provide a comprehensive overview of Outlet Campground at Priest Lake, detailing its strategic location and accessibility, the services it offers, its key features and highlights, and important contact information. We'll conclude by explaining why this pristine lakeside campground is a truly suitable and appealing choice for Idaho locals seeking their next outdoor adventure.

Outlet Campground at Priest Lake is officially located at 459 W Lakeshore Rd, Priest River, ID 83856, USA. This places it directly on the southwest shore of Priest Lake, at the very headwaters of the Priest River. It is situated within the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, making it part of a vast network of public lands managed for recreation and conservation.

Accessing Outlet Campground typically involves a scenic drive through North Idaho. From I-90, you would turn north on Highway 41 to Newport, WA, then east on Highway 2 to Priest River. At the junction of Highway 57 and Highway 2, you turn left (north) and drive approximately 26 miles to Outlet Bay Road. A right turn onto Outlet Bay Road for about 0.5 mile, followed by a left onto Lake Shore Road for another 0.5 mile, will bring you to the campground on your right. The roadways and parking spurs within the campground are fully paved, ensuring easy navigation for both RVs and cars.

The campground's elevation is approximately 2,500 feet, offering stunning views of the surrounding Selkirk Mountains. Its direct proximity to Priest Lake, a massive 25,000-acre body of water, ensures immediate access to the lake's resources. The well-maintained roads make it accessible for most vehicles, including those towing large RVs and boat trailers, although some sites are better suited for smaller campers.

• RV and Tent Sites: Outlet Campground offers a mix of RV and tent sites, including some walk-in tent sites. Campsites vary in size, from very large (capable of accommodating an RV and a boat trailer) to smaller, camper-sized options.
• Flush Toilets and Sinks: Unlike many primitive campgrounds, Outlet provides accessible flush toilets and sinks, enhancing comfort for campers.
• Potable Water Hydrants: Water hydrants are available throughout the campground, providing access to potable drinking water.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a designated fire ring for cooking and campfires (when fire restrictions allow).
• Swimming Beach: A small, designated swimming beach is available for campers to enjoy the clear waters of Priest Lake.
• Bear-Proof Garbage Cans: Garbage service is provided in bear-proof cans to ensure wildlife safety and campground cleanliness.
• Paved Roadways and Parking Spurs: All internal roads and parking spurs are fully paved, offering easy navigation and clean surfaces.
• Public Dump Station Nearby: A public dump station is conveniently located about 5 miles north of the campground, at Upper Luby Bay, on Highway 57, for RV waste disposal.
• Reservations: All sites at Outlet Campground are 100% reservable via Recreation.gov, allowing campers to plan their trip in advance.
• Extra Vehicle Policy: One vehicle is included per single campsite fee; additional vehicles are charged a per-day fee collected on-site (cash or check only), with a maximum of two vehicles per site.

• Direct Lakefront Access: The prime location on the southwest shore of Priest Lake offers immediate access to swimming, boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
• Stunning Views of Selkirk Mountains: Campers are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged Selkirk Mountains, providing a majestic backdrop to their stay.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Priest Lake is renowned for its fishing, particularly for large Mackinaw trout (lake trout), as well as other species. The campground's location makes it a perfect base for anglers.
• Access to Upper Priest Lake Scenic Area: A 2.5-mile thorofare connects Priest Lake to the pristine, car-inaccessible Upper Priest Lake Scenic Area, offering a unique wilderness experience for boaters and paddlers.
• Diverse Wildlife Viewing: The area is rich in wildlife, with opportunities to spot moose, black bear, wolves, deer, elk, and eagles, enhancing the natural experience.
• Beach Trail #48: This scenic 8-mile trail runs through Outlet Campground and stretches northward along Priest Lake, perfect for hiking and exploring the shoreline.
• Variety of Campsite Types: With three loops, including upper view and lower lakeside sections, and a mix of heavily wooded and open sites, campers can choose a spot that best suits their preferences.
• Outdoor Recreation Hub: Beyond water activities, the surrounding Idaho Panhandle National Forests offer authorized trails for off-highway vehicles (like Peewee Trail), and hiking trails such as Chipmunk Rapids Trail.
• Early Season Appeal: Visiting earlier in the season is recommended by seasoned campers to avoid peak insect activity, allowing for a more comfortable experience.

Address: 459 W Lakeshore Rd, Priest River, ID 83856, USA

Phone: For campground inquiries, you can contact Scenic Canyons Recreational Services, Inc., which operates the campground: (435) 245-6521. For general Priest Lake area inquiries, the Priest Lake Visitor Center phone is (208) 443-2200.

For Idaho locals, Outlet Campground at Priest Lake is an exceptional choice for experiencing the profound natural beauty and recreational opportunities that their home state has to offer. Its prime location on one of Idaho's most magnificent lakes, combined with the excellent management by the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, makes it an ideal destination for various reasons. For residents across Idaho, particularly those in the northern parts of the state, the scenic drive to Priest Lake is an enjoyable journey, leading to a truly rewarding outdoor adventure.

The primary draw for Idahoans is the direct and easy access to Priest Lake itself. Whether it's the thrill of fishing for trophy Mackinaw trout, the serenity of kayaking on clear waters, or simply relaxing on the small swimming beach, the lake offers endless possibilities. The ability to access the pristine Upper Priest Lake Scenic Area via the thorofare is a unique highlight, providing a deeper wilderness experience that resonates with the adventurous spirit of many Idahoans.

The campground's commitment to cleanliness and maintenance, with "very clean bathrooms" and paved roads, ensures a comfortable stay, even without showers. This balance of rustic natural beauty and essential amenities allows locals to truly unwind and enjoy their surroundings without extensive roughing it. The diverse range of sites, from heavily wooded to open, and options for RVs and tents, means there's a perfect spot for every type of camper.

Furthermore, being a part of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests means campers are directly connected to vast public lands, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring beyond the immediate campground boundaries. The advice from fellow campers about visiting earlier in the season to avoid insects is a valuable local tip, helping to ensure a more pleasant trip. Ultimately, Outlet Campground provides an authentic, well-supported, and incredibly scenic base for Idaho locals to connect with the natural wonders that make their state so special.

Outlet Campground at Priest Lake

459 W Lakeshore Rd, Priest River, ID 83856, USA