Plowboy Campground

For Idahoans seeking a genuine wilderness immersion without venturing too far off the beaten path, Plowboy Campground offers an unparalleled experience at the pristine Upper Priest Lake. This isn't your typical drive-up campground; Plowboy provides a unique opportunity for those willing to hike, bike, or even boat into their serene natural retreat. It's an ideal destination for adventurers, families with a spirit for exploration, and anyone looking to truly disconnect and embrace the tranquility of Idaho's stunning backcountry. Imagine pitching your tent amidst towering trees, with the crystal-clear waters of Upper Priest Lake just steps away, reflecting the endless Idaho sky. This campground provides a memorable setting for those who cherish peace, quiet, and a deep connection with nature. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or a first-timer eager to experience the rewards of a short trek, Plowboy Campground promises a fulfilling and invigorating escape into the heart of Idaho's cherished wilderness. Its relatively easy accessibility for a hike-in site makes it a perfect entry point into backpacking for locals, while still offering the profound solitude that more experienced outdoors enthusiasts crave.

Plowboy Campground is beautifully situated near Coolin, ID 83821, a location that places it in the highly sought-after Priest Lake region of Northern Idaho. What makes Plowboy truly unique is its accessibility—or rather, its purposeful inaccessibility by vehicle directly to the campsite. This campground is primarily a hike-in, bike-in, or boat-in destination, which contributes significantly to its serene and pristine environment.

For Idaho locals, reaching the starting point for Plowboy Campground typically involves driving to the northern end of Priest Lake. From there, the adventure truly begins. The most common approach for hikers is a roughly 3-mile trail. This trail, while presenting some ups and downs and a few small inclines, is generally considered manageable even for inexperienced backpackers, taking approximately an hour and a half to complete. This relatively short and scenic trek makes backpacking accessible to a wider range of outdoor enthusiasts in Idaho, offering a rewarding sense of accomplishment upon arrival.

Alternatively, for those with a boat, accessing Plowboy Campground via Upper Priest Lake offers a different kind of scenic journey. Boaters can enjoy the calm waters and stunning views as they approach the designated boat-in sites. This multi-modal accessibility ensures that while the campground maintains its wilderness feel, it remains within reach for many Idahoans, allowing them to experience the profound beauty and tranquility of Upper Priest Lake with a sense of genuine adventure. Its remote nature, enforced by the need to access it by alternative means, ensures a less crowded experience than many drive-up campgrounds, making it a true hidden gem for locals seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Plowboy Campground, due to its hike-in, bike-in, or boat-in nature, offers a more rustic set of services designed for a self-sufficient camping experience. However, these essential amenities ensure a comfortable and responsible stay in the wilderness.

• Designated Campsites: Numerous spaces are available for pitching tents, spread out to offer a sense of privacy and seclusion. These sites are well-integrated into the natural surroundings.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides access to vault toilets, which are essential for sanitation in a wilderness setting. While not flush toilets, they are typically maintained to provide a basic, clean facility.
• Access to Water (Lake): While there isn't typically potable water spigots at hike-in sites unless specifically noted, campers have direct access to Upper Priest Lake, which can be filtered or treated for drinking. It is crucial for campers to bring their own water filtration systems.
• Fire Rings: Individual fire rings are usually present at campsites, allowing for campfires and cooking, provided there are no current fire restrictions in place. Always check local fire regulations before lighting a fire.
• Trail Access: The campground serves as a hub for further exploration, with trails leading north to additional hiking and camping opportunities, enhancing the backcountry experience.
• Waste Disposal: Campers are generally expected to practice Leave No Trace principles, packing out everything they pack in, including all trash and waste.

It is important for visitors to come prepared for a wilderness setting, meaning bringing all necessary supplies including water filtration, bear spray, and ample bug repellent, as these are not typically provided on-site.

Plowboy Campground stands out for its exceptional natural features and the unique adventurous highlights it offers:

• Serene Upper Priest Lake: The campground's prime location on the shores of Upper Priest Lake is its biggest draw. The lake is renowned for its crystal-clear, calm waters, offering stunning reflections and a truly serene atmosphere.
• Scenic Hike-In Accessibility: The 3-mile hike to the campground provides gorgeous scenery, making the journey itself part of the adventure. It's noted as manageable even for first-time backpackers, offering a rewarding experience.
• Backpacking Gateway: For those new to backpacking, Plowboy serves as an excellent introduction, offering a relatively short and achievable trek with a significant wilderness payoff.
• Ample Camping Spaces: Despite its popularity, especially on busy weekends, there are plenty of spaces to camp, allowing visitors to find a suitable spot to set up their basecamp.
• Further Trail Exploration: The presence of trails leading further north offers extended hiking and camping opportunities for more ambitious adventurers, providing access to even more remote wilderness.
• Wildlife Viewing: Being in bear country and a rich natural habitat, the area provides opportunities for observing local wildlife, though campers must be prepared with bear spray and proper food storage.
• Off-Leash Dog Friendly (with caution): In many areas, dogs can be off-leash, allowing canine companions to enjoy the wilderness freely, provided they stay close and respectful of other campers.
• Cold, Refreshing Lake Water: The lake's cold water is a highlight, especially on warmer days, inviting brave campers for a refreshing dip, as noted by enthusiastic visitors.
• Tranquil and Uncrowded Feel: Due to its hike-in nature, Plowboy generally feels less busy than drive-up campgrounds, providing a more peaceful and immersive wilderness experience.

For specific inquiries about Plowboy Campground, including current conditions, trail status, fire restrictions, or any updates regarding accessibility, it is best to contact the managing authorities for the Priest Lake area within the Idaho Panhandle National Forests.

While a direct phone number for Plowboy Campground itself isn't typically provided for hike-in sites, general information for the Priest Lake Ranger District, which oversees this area, can be found.

Address: Coolin, ID 83821, USA (This address is for the general vicinity of the campground, not a mailing address for direct contact.)

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is recommended to search for the U.S. Forest Service Priest Lake Ranger District contact information. They would be the authoritative source for details on Plowboy Campground, including any necessary permits or specific regulations for wilderness camping in that region.

Example contact approach (verify online for current number): Search for "Priest Lake Ranger District contact" or "Idaho Panhandle National Forests Priest Lake Ranger District phone number."

It is always prudent to check with the managing forest service office before embarking on a trip to a remote campground like Plowboy, especially to confirm conditions related to trail access, water availability, and wildlife advisories.

Plowboy Campground is an exceptional destination perfectly suited for Idaho locals seeking an authentic and rewarding outdoor adventure. Its unique hike-in, bike-in, or boat-in accessibility directly appeals to the Idahoan spirit of self-reliance and appreciation for the wild. For those living in the state, it offers a readily accessible yet profoundly remote experience, allowing for a complete disconnect from daily routines and a deep dive into nature without requiring extensive travel out of state.

The 3-mile hike is a significant advantage for locals, particularly those new to backpacking. It provides an achievable challenge that builds confidence and offers the immense reward of reaching a truly pristine campsite by one's own effort. This makes it an ideal "starter" backpacking trip for Idaho families and individuals looking to expand their outdoor skills. The payoff is immense: the serene beauty of Upper Priest Lake, with its cold, inviting waters and stunning reflections, provides a breathtaking backdrop for relaxation and recreation.

Idahoans value uncrowded natural spaces, and Plowboy Campground, by its very nature of requiring a trek to reach, inherently filters out casual visitors, preserving a more peaceful and unadulterated wilderness experience. The abundance of spacious campsites ensures that even on busier weekends, there's a sense of personal space. Furthermore, the ability to bring dogs (with proper management) caters to the many pet-loving Idahoans who want to share their adventures with their canine companions.

Being in bear country, it also fosters a responsible approach to wildlife interaction, encouraging locals to practice essential wilderness safety like bringing bear spray and properly storing food, which are valuable skills for any Idaho outdoors enthusiast. In essence, Plowboy Campground encapsulates the very best of Idaho's outdoor ethos: accessible adventure, pristine nature, and the opportunity to truly immerse oneself in the state's magnificent wilderness. It’s a perfect local gem for those seeking an unforgettable, back-to-basics camping experience.

Plowboy Campground

Coolin, ID 83821, USA