Reeder Bay Campground

Idahoans, we know that when it comes to escaping the everyday, nothing quite compares to the crystal-clear waters and forested shores of Priest Lake. Tucked away in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, Reeder Bay Campground offers a quintessential North Idaho camping experience, blending rustic charm with stunning natural beauty. This isn't a bustling resort with all the bells and whistles, but rather a peaceful, well-maintained haven designed for those who appreciate the simple joys of nature and direct access to one of our state's most beloved lakes.

Reeder Bay Campground is a popular hideaway for immersing yourself in nature and enjoying the myriad water sports available on Priest Lake. Its campsites are beautifully shaded by a dense canopy of cedar, fir, and hemlock trees, creating a cool and inviting atmosphere. Campers are particularly drawn to Reeder Bay for its incredible beach that gently slopes down into the refreshing, clear waters of Priest Lake. While it offers a more traditional camping experience without individual hookups, its pristine setting and access to outdoor activities make it a highly sought-after destination for Idaho locals seeking a genuine, unplugged getaway.

Reeder Bay Campground is nestled at 2606 Reeder Bay Rd, Nordman, ID 83848, USA. This places it on the western shore of Priest Lake, deep below the crest of the majestic Selkirk Mountains. For Idaho residents, accessing this beautiful spot involves a scenic drive. From I-90, you typically head north on Highway 41 to Newport, then right on Highway 2/200 east to Priest River. From there, you turn north (left) on Highway 57, driving approximately 37 miles to Nordman, and then turn right at a Y junction, continuing for about 3 miles to reach Reeder Bay.

Despite its somewhat remote feel, the campground boasts paved roads and parking spurs, making it accessible for a variety of vehicles, including RVs and trailers (though some sites might be a bit tight for larger rigs). The journey to Reeder Bay is part of the experience, winding through picturesque forested landscapes that set the stage for your tranquil retreat. Once there, the ease of access to the lake, with many campsites offering direct trails to small beach areas, is a significant advantage, allowing campers to quickly transition from their site to the water's edge.

• Spacious & Shaded Campsites: Reeder Bay offers 24 well-spaced campsites, many of which are generously shaded by dense forest, providing privacy and comfort. Sites can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs.

• No Hookups: It is important for campers to note that Reeder Bay Campground operates as a traditional dry camping facility; there are no individual water, electric, or sewer hookups at the campsites. Campers should come prepared to be self-contained.

• Potable Water System: The campground provides a pressurized water system with hydrants (spigots) for potable drinking water, ensuring campers have access to fresh water for their needs.

• Flush Toilets: Clean flush toilets are available for public use, a welcome amenity for a Forest Service campground, enhancing comfort for all visitors.

• Bear-Resistant Dumpsters & Boxes: For waste management and wildlife safety, bear-resistant dumpsters are provided. Each campsite typically also has a bear box for secure food storage.

• Paved Roads and Parking Spurs: The internal roads and individual parking spurs are paved, contributing to a clean and tidy campground environment, and making it suitable for bike riding.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each site is equipped with a picnic table and an established fire ring with a grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires (fire restrictions permitting).

• Overflow Gravel Parking: Ample overflow gravel parking areas are available, which is convenient for extra vehicles.

• Online Booking: Reservations for sites can be made online through Recreation.gov, simplifying the booking process and allowing campers to secure their preferred spots up to six months in advance.

• Direct Priest Lake Access: The campground's standout feature is its immediate proximity and direct trail access to Priest Lake. Many campsites have private trails leading down to a small, incredible beach area with clear, refreshing water, ideal for swimming and relaxation.

• Stunning Lake Views: From many sites, and certainly from the beach, campers are treated to awesome lake views, including spectacular vistas of Chimney Rock and the surrounding Selkirk Mountains.

• Shaded Forest Setting: The dense forest of cedar, fir, and hemlock provides abundant shade, creating a cool and inviting atmosphere, particularly during Idaho's warm summer months.

• Well-Spaced Sites: Campsites are well-spaced, offering a good degree of privacy between neighbors, contributing to a quiet and serene camping experience.

• Diverse Recreational Opportunities: Priest Lake offers a wide array of activities, including swimming, wakeboarding, jet skiing, bird watching, and canoeing. Anglers can seek Dolly Varden, cutthroat trout, and kokanee salmon.

• Access to Extensive Trail System: The campground provides access to the extensive trail system around Priest Lake, including the 8-mile Lakeshore Trail for hikers and mountain bikers, and the Upper Priest Lake Trail leading to the scenic Upper Priest Lake Scenic Area (also accessible by boat).

• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding Idaho Panhandle National Forests are home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, moose, and various birds, offering excellent viewing opportunities.

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With paved roads perfect for bike riding and easy access to the beach, the campground is a great place for families with children, often described as a "happy place" by returning visitors.

Address: 2606 Reeder Bay Rd, Nordman, ID 83848, USA

Phone: (877) 444-6777 (This is the National Recreation Reservation Service number. For direct campground inquiries, a number like (435) 245-6521 is often listed for Scenic Canyons Recreational Services, who manage many sites in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests.)

Mobile Phone: +1 877-444-6777

For Idahoans, Reeder Bay Campground on Priest Lake is more than just a destination; it's an annual tradition for many, a testament to the timeless appeal of North Idaho's natural beauty. Its suitability for locals lies in its perfect balance of rustic, traditional camping and accessible amenities, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Priest Lake.

The fact that it's a "no hookups" campground often appeals to Idaho locals who are well-versed in self-contained camping, valuing the quiet and privacy that comes with fewer direct services at each site. The spacious, well-shaded campsites provide ample room to relax and truly feel immersed in the forest. However, the convenience of flush toilets and potable water hydrants elevates the experience beyond primitive dispersed camping, striking a comfortable middle ground.

Perhaps its greatest draw for locals is the unparalleled access to Priest Lake itself. The ability to walk a short trail from your campsite directly to a beautiful, clear-water beach is a luxury that few campgrounds offer. This provides endless opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating, activities deeply ingrained in the Idaho summer experience. For families, the paved roads are ideal for bike riding, and the overall peaceful ambiance encourages relaxation and connection. Reeder Bay Campground offers a genuine, unplugged Idaho adventure, fostering memories that will last a lifetime, all within the stunning landscapes that make our state so special.

Reeder Bay Campground

2606 Reeder Bay Rd, Nordman, ID 83848, USA