West Shores Campground (7 Lots)

Introduction / Overview

For Idaho locals seeking an unparalleled escape into the heart of the Gem State's wilderness, West Shores Campground (7 Lots) offers a truly unique and enchanting experience. Nestled on the pristine Kalispell Island in the magnificent Priest Lake, this campground is a true gem for those who crave seclusion, natural beauty, and a genuine connection with the outdoors. Unlike many drive-up campgrounds, West Shores is accessible primarily by boat, adding an element of adventure and ensuring a more tranquil and less crowded environment. It's a destination where the whispers of the wind through ancient trees and the gentle lapping of the lake against the shore become your primary soundtrack. West Shores Campground is part of the larger Idaho Panhandle National Forests, ensuring a well-preserved natural setting. With just seven individual lots, it promises an intimate camping experience that fosters a deep appreciation for the pristine beauty of North Idaho. Whether you're an avid boater, a keen hiker, or simply someone looking to unwind in a truly magical setting, West Shores Campground offers an unforgettable retreat that embodies the very best of Idaho's outdoor spirit.

Location and Accessibility

West Shores Campground (7 Lots) is situated at 10 Kalispell Cove Rd, Priest Lake, ID 83856, USA. However, it's crucial for prospective campers to understand that this address serves as a general geographic marker for the area. The campground itself is located on Kalispell Island within Priest Lake. This means that access to West Shores Campground is primarily by boat, adding to its secluded charm and ensuring a unique arrival experience. Priest Lake, located in the northern panhandle of Idaho, is renowned for its incredibly clear, deep waters fed by streams cascading from the high Selkirk peaks. For Idaho locals, reaching Priest Lake is a straightforward drive, with well-maintained roads leading to various public boat launches around the lake. From these launches, campers embark on a scenic boat ride across the sparkling waters to Kalispell Island. The journey to the island is part of the adventure, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and shoreline. Once on the island, the campground is designed to provide a natural, immersive experience. While the campground offers a sense of being far removed from civilization, its accessibility via boat from various points on Priest Lake makes it a convenient yet wonderfully remote option for those in Idaho looking for a truly special outdoor getaway.

Services Offered

• Individual Campsites: West Shores Campground consists of 7 designated lots, providing a relatively private and intimate camping experience.
• Boat-In Access: The primary mode of access is by boat, which helps maintain the secluded and quiet atmosphere of the campground.
• Vault Toilets: Basic restroom facilities are available, typically in the form of vault toilets, ensuring essential sanitation for campers.
• Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring, allowing for safe and enjoyable campfires (where permitted by fire restrictions).
• Picnic Tables: Designated picnic tables are provided at each lot for comfortable outdoor dining.
• No Potable Water: Campers should be prepared to bring their own drinking water, as potable water sources are generally not available at these island campgrounds.
• Pack It In, Pack It Out: Consistent with dispersed and primitive camping ethics, campers are expected to pack out all their trash to maintain the pristine environment.
• Bear-Proof Storage: While not explicitly stated for West Shores, similar island campgrounds on Priest Lake often provide bear-resistant food storage lockers due to the presence of wildlife. Campers should be prepared to secure their food.

Features / Highlights

• Magical Island Setting: Customers consistently describe Kalispell Island as "magical," highlighting its unique and enchanting atmosphere for camping.
• Secluded and Quiet: With only 7 lots and boat-in access, the campground offers an exceptional level of peace and quiet, a stark contrast to more crowded locations.
• Wonderful Hike Around the Island: As one reviewer mentioned, there's a "wonderful hike around the island," providing opportunities for exploration and enjoying the island's natural beauty.
• Beautiful Beach Access: West Shores is known for its "beach," allowing campers to enjoy the clear waters of Priest Lake for swimming and relaxation. One reviewer specifically stated, "We love this beach!"
• Stunning Priest Lake: The campground benefits from its location on Priest Lake, famous for its exceptionally clear water and majestic Selkirk Mountain backdrop.
• Primitive Camping Experience: Ideal for those who prefer a more rustic and self-sufficient camping adventure, away from modern amenities and crowds.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The natural, forested environment of the island and surrounding lake area offers chances to observe various wildlife.
• Fishing and Boating: Priest Lake is renowned for its fishing and boating opportunities, which are directly accessible from the campground's vicinity.
• Return Visitors: The enthusiastic review of "Will be back!" underscores the satisfaction and loyalty this unique camping spot inspires in its visitors.
• Starry Nights: Away from urban light pollution, the night skies over Priest Lake are often spectacular for stargazing.

Contact Information

Address: 10 Kalispell Cove Rd, Priest Lake, ID 83856, USA

As this is a remote, boat-in campground, direct phone contact for the specific "West Shores Campground (7 Lots)" is not typically provided. For general inquiries about Priest Lake area camping and regulations within the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, please refer to the main Forest Service contact numbers for the region or consult the recreation.gov website for detailed information on Kalispell Island Boat-IN Campground, which includes West Shores.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Idaho residents, West Shores Campground (7 Lots) on Kalispell Island represents the quintessential North Idaho outdoor experience, offering a unique blend of adventure, tranquility, and natural beauty right in their backyard. The boat-in accessibility, while requiring a bit more planning, is precisely what makes it so appealing to locals who truly appreciate a secluded getaway. It filters out casual visitors, ensuring a more peaceful and intimate atmosphere, allowing for a deeper connection with the pristine environment of Priest Lake. The testimonials from fellow Idahoans who "love this beach" and find the "whole island magical" speak volumes about the quality of the experience. It's a place where families can create lasting memories around a campfire, where adventurers can explore the island's trails and the vast expanse of Priest Lake, and where anyone can simply unwind in the embrace of nature. This campground provides a true escape from the hustle and bustle, allowing locals to fully immerse themselves in the Selkirk Mountains' grandeur. Without the distractions of excessive amenities, campers are encouraged to be self-reliant and truly engage with their surroundings, embodying the resilient and adventurous spirit often found in Idahoans. West Shores Campground isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an invitation to experience Priest Lake's magic on a personal level, making it an ideal destination for those who call Idaho home and cherish its unparalleled natural landscapes.

West Shores Campground (7 Lots)

10 Kalispell Cove Rd, Priest Lake, ID 83856, USA