Boating At Priest Lake In Idaho

Free Public Boating & Watersport Activities

Priest Lake, located in the northernmost part of Idaho, is a hidden gem surrounded by the majestic Selkirk Mountains. Known for its pristine waters and unspoiled wilderness, the lake offers a serene and scenic retreat for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The remote location of Priest Lake adds to its charm, making it a cherished destination for those seeking a peaceful escape.

Surrounding Priest Lake are several nearby attractions that enhance the overall experience for visitors. The nearby Priest Lake State Park provides hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, offering a chance to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the area. Visitors can also explore the nearby town of Coolin, where they can find quaint shops, dining options, and a taste of local culture.

Boating is a popular activity at Priest Lake, and the clear waters of the lake provide an ideal setting for leisurely cruises and water sports. Boaters can enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains while exploring the various coves and inlets of the lake. Marinas are available along the lake's shores, offering essential services and amenities for boat owners and visitors.

Water sports enthusiasts can partake in a variety of activities, including water skiing, wakeboarding, and paddleboarding, adding excitement and fun to their time on the water. The lake's calm and pristine waters make it an ideal playground for all ages to enjoy these thrilling experiences.

To facilitate easy access to the lake, Priest Lake offers a well-maintained boat launch ramp. These ramps make it convenient for boat owners to access the lake and launch their vessels for a day of exploration or water-based enjoyment.

For those without their own boats, the lake provides rental boats, allowing visitors to rent boats by the hour or the day. This gives everyone the opportunity to experience the joy of boating without the need for boat ownership. Renting a boat at Priest Lake allows visitors to explore its scenic beauty and experience the tranquility of the surroundings from a different perspective.

Nearby cities are limited due to Priest Lake's remote location, but the nearby town of Coolin and the city of Sandpoint provide additional amenities and services for travelers seeking a more vibrant atmosphere.

The boating season at Priest Lake typically extends from spring to late fall, providing ample time for boaters and water sports enthusiasts to indulge in their favorite activities. As the weather warms up, the lake becomes a hub for outdoor fun, attracting families, friends, and solo adventurers seeking memorable experiences on the water.

Fishing is another beloved activity at Priest Lake, drawing anglers with its abundance of fish. The lake is well-stocked with various fish species, including trout, bass, and Kokanee salmon, making it a favored destination for fishing enthusiasts of all levels.

Priest Lake State Park and other campgrounds in the surrounding area provide picturesque spots for camping enthusiasts. Camping at Priest Lake allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the wilderness and experience the serenity of nature's embrace.

Boating, camping and fishing.

Splendidly nestled in a high-mountain setting, Priest Lake is a 23,000-acre boating and fishing lake. This appealing gem is located in the upper northern section of Idaho, one mile east of Nordman. Rental boats are available at the lake, and there are no HP restrictions for pleasure or fishing boats. Numerous boat launch ramps facilitate boating access for pleasure boats, water-ski boats, pontoons and fishing boats. Much of the 80 miles of shoreline is surrounded by roadways providing access to multiple places to fish from the bank or launch a canoe or kayak. Fishing enthusiasts will find for bass, trout, bluegill, sunfish, perch and salmon. Much of the lake is lined with boat docks, a favorite hangout for bass, crappie and sunfish. Marinas, camping, shopping and a variety of eating establishments are at the lake or very close by. Setting at an elevation of 2,440 feet above sea level, the lake offers year-round fishing including ice fishing in winter any time there is safe ice.

Area Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Camping

Beaver Creek Campground - 208 443-1801

Priest Lake State Park Campground - 208 443-2200

Osprey Campground - 208 443-3340

Outlet at Priest Lake Campground - 208 443-8053

Priest Lake Map

Fishing

Fish species found in Priest Lake include smallmouth bass, cutthroat trout, lake trout, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, yellow perch and kokanee salmon.

Smallmouth bass Cutthroat trout Lake trout Bluegill Pumpkinseed Sunfish Yellow Perch Kokanee salmon