Silver Campground

For Idaho locals seeking an unparalleled outdoor experience, Silver Campground at Priest Lake offers a truly unique escape into the heart of Northern Idaho's pristine wilderness. Unlike many drive-up campgrounds, Silver Campground is situated on Kalispell Island, a forested gem just off the western shoreline of Priest Lake. This distinct location means access is exclusively by boat, immediately setting it apart and promising a more secluded and adventurous camping journey. Imagine waking up to the gentle lapping of the lake against the shore, with the sun rising over the Selkirk Mountains, casting a golden glow on the clear waters of Priest Lake – this is the daily reality at Silver Campground.

Priest Lake itself is a jewel of the Northwest, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, diverse recreational opportunities, and stunning natural beauty. Silver Campground provides an intimate connection to this magnificent environment. It's a place where the hustle and bustle of everyday life fade away, replaced by the sounds of nature and the tranquility of an island retreat. Whether you're an avid boater, a dedicated angler, or simply someone yearning for a peaceful escape surrounded by Idaho's majestic forests, Silver Campground promises an unforgettable experience. Its unique accessibility and natural setting make it a cherished destination for those who truly appreciate the rugged yet beautiful landscapes of the Gem State.

Silver Campground is located at Priest Lake, ID 83856, USA, specifically on Kalispell Island. This prime location places it within the vast and beautiful Priest Lake area, a prominent feature of Northern Idaho's Panhandle region. Priest Lake is approximately 80 miles northeast of Spokane, Washington, with its northern tip extending within 15 miles of the Canada–US border. The primary lake, Lower Priest, is an impressive 19 miles long and over 300 feet deep, offering ample space for exploration.

The defining characteristic of Silver Campground's accessibility is that it is strictly boat-in only. This means there are no roads leading directly to the campground. To reach Silver Campground, visitors must first travel to one of the various boat launches around Priest Lake. A common access point is the Kalispell Bay Boat Launch. To get there from Priest River, Idaho, you would travel north on State Highway 57 for approximately 31 miles. Then, turn east (right) onto Kalispell Bay Road until you reach West Lakeshore Road, where the boat launch is located. From this or other public boat launches around the lake, campers will then need to navigate by boat, canoe, or kayak to Kalispell Island. This unique access requirement contributes significantly to the campground's serene and less crowded atmosphere, ensuring a more authentic wilderness experience. While this might seem like an extra step, the journey across the lake to the island is often considered part of the adventure, offering breathtaking views and the chance to truly immerse oneself in the lake's grandeur.

• P: Campsites: Silver Campground on Kalispell Island offers 8 camping units, primarily situated on the southern shoreline. These sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, though customer reviews suggest reservations are recommended, especially during peak summer months, due to the popularity of the beach area.
• P: Picnic Tables: Each camping unit is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation and dining outdoors.
• P: Fire Rings: Fire rings are provided at each site, allowing campers to enjoy traditional campfires (please adhere to any fire restrictions in place).
• P: Vault Toilets: Basic restroom facilities in the form of vault toilets are available at the campground.
• P: No Drinking Water: Visitors must bring their own potable drinking water, as there is no water source available on the island.
• P: No Trash Services: There are no trash services on Kalispell Island. Campers are required to practice "pack it in, pack it out" to maintain the pristine condition of the island.
• P: Limited Amenities: As a boat-in campground, amenities are intentionally minimalistic, fostering a more rugged and authentic camping experience.

• P: Exclusive Boat-In Access: The most distinctive feature, offering a truly secluded and adventurous camping experience away from road-accessible crowds. This makes it perfect for those with personal boats, kayaks, or canoes.
• P: Stunning Lake Views: Situated on Kalispell Island, the campground boasts incredible panoramic views of Priest Lake and the surrounding Selkirk Mountains, especially during sunrise and sunset.
• P: Beautiful Beach Area: As noted by a customer review, Silver Campground features a very nice beach area, providing a wonderful spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing by the water. However, it can get crowded during peak summer times, emphasizing the need for early arrival or reservations.
• P: Kayaking and Canoeing Paradise: The calm waters around Kalispell Island are ideal for paddling, offering a peaceful way to explore the island's coastline and the broader Priest Lake. Many visitors enjoy canoeing or kayaking out from mainland boat launches.
• P: Proximity to Upper Priest Lake Scenic Area: A popular activity is to paddle or power boat through a 3.5-mile thoroughfare that connects to the Upper Priest Lake Scenic Area, a pristine and even more remote section of the lake.
• P: Wildlife Viewing: The island and surrounding Priest Lake area are home to abundant wildlife, including deer, elk, and various bird species, offering excellent opportunities for nature observation.
• P: Fishing Opportunities: Priest Lake is well-known for its fishing, with species like cutthroat trout, Kokanee, lake trout, and Dolly Varden trout. Anglers at Silver Campground have direct access to these waters.
• P: Rustic Wilderness Experience: For those who appreciate a more natural and less developed camping environment, Silver Campground provides an authentic taste of Idaho's wild landscapes.

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

Administered by: Idaho Panhandle National Forests, Priest Lake Ranger District.

For general inquiries about camping in the Priest Lake area or Kalispell Island Silver Cove Campground (which Silver Campground is part of), you may try contacting:

Priest Lake Ranger District Phone: 208-443-2512

Priest Lake Chamber of Commerce (for local area information):

Phone: (208) 443-3191

Email: info@priestlake.org

Mail Address: PO BOX 174, Coolin, Idaho 83821

It is always advisable to contact the Priest Lake Ranger District or check recreation.gov for the most up-to-date information regarding reservations, site availability, current conditions, and any fire restrictions before planning your visit. While individual sites are often first-come, first-served, customer feedback suggests making reservations if possible, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.

For Idaho locals, Silver Campground at Priest Lake is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's an essential part of the Idaho outdoor experience. Its unique boat-in access immediately sets it apart, offering a distinctive adventure that resonates with the state’s rugged and independent spirit. This isn't your average roadside campground; it's a destination that requires a bit more effort to reach, but in return, it rewards visitors with unparalleled tranquility and breathtaking natural beauty.

The allure for Idahoans lies in the promise of true disconnection and immersion in nature. Without vehicle access, the island maintains a quieter, more pristine atmosphere, free from the constant drone of traffic. Locals who own boats, kayaks, or canoes will find Silver Campground to be an ideal weekend getaway, offering a fresh perspective on a familiar and beloved lake. The crystal-clear waters of Priest Lake are perfect for swimming, the fishing opportunities are abundant, and the surrounding forests provide a habitat for diverse wildlife, making every visit a chance to witness Idaho's natural splendor up close.

Furthermore, the "pack it in, pack it out" ethos and the basic amenities encourage a more self-reliant and responsible approach to outdoor recreation, qualities deeply ingrained in the Idaho outdoor culture. It’s a chance to truly unplug, recharge, and create lasting memories with family and friends amidst one of Idaho's most iconic landscapes. From watching the sunrise over the lake to exploring the scenic thoroughfare to Upper Priest Lake, Silver Campground offers an authentic, rejuvenating wilderness experience that perfectly encapsulates the appeal of the Idaho outdoors for those who call this beautiful state home.

Silver Campground

Priest Lake, ID 83856, USA