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Priest Lake was originally called Roothaan Lake by Father Desmet in 1846 in honor of his Jesuit Superior in Rome. One of the prominent peaks in the Selkirk Range still bears the name Roothaan. In 1865, Captain John Mullan designated this same lake as Kaniksu Lake on one of his maps. It is believed that "Kaniksu" was the Indian name of Black Robe, although this has never been authenticated. The name was gradually changed in the early 1900's from Kaniksu Lake to its present name of Priest Lake, which refers to the early-day Jesuit missionary priests who had established a base camp at Kalispell Bay in the 1840's. The lake is one of three largest and most beautiful lakes in the Idaho Panhandle, and a very popular recreation attraction. The world's largest Makinaw trout was caught here in 1963. Dolly Varden, Cutthroat, and Kokanee are also caught in the lake. It is now illegal to fish for Dolly Varden and they are to be returned to the lake when caught. Upper Priest Lake is part of the Upper Priest Lake Scenic Area. There were five small parcels of private land totaling about 420 acres on Upper Priest Lake. The Forest Service purchased these tracts in 1967 with the assistance of Nature Conservancy. The entire shoreline of Upper Priest Lake is now in either the State of Idaho or Federal ownership, and is administered as a scenic area. Upper Priest River, which flows into Upper Priest Lake, is one of the rivers to be studied for inclusion in the Wild and Scenic Rivers system along with the lower Priest River which was famous in the early days as a log-drive stream. The first recorded drive was in 1901 and the last in 1949. The greatest drive took place in 1931 when 50,000 cedar poles and 125,000,000 board feet or logs were herded down the river by the "river pigs".
Great combination of beach, hiking trail, and chilling by campfire. It's nice that safe campfires are not forbidden during high fire danger season. We had excellent relaxing time s a family. Close proximity to beach, lighted toilets and showers, timely trash removal, friendliness of staff, and many other perks made our mini-vacation very special! Short hiking trail starts at the campsite.
Absolutely beautiful! The Hawaii-like sand on the beach was a pleasant surprise. Plenty of breathtaking views of the lake & mountains regardless of where you are located. Vast quantities of hiking trails for all ages. Very family friendly. Phone & Internet service is intermittent.
Super nice place. Will come back here again. All family really enjoyed the time spent there. Everything is good except that they made only for Idaho residents good prices, to all people from another states you have to pay double. In general super clean warm water. Will recommend to everyone to visit this place.
After hearing nothing but good things from the local folk, we decided to take a couple of days and went up to fish and explore Priest Lake. This place is an absolute gem! The water is so clean and clear, and the perfect temperature for a swim in the heat of the afternoon. We even had luck with a few trout and smallmoth bass off the dock. The photo opportunities are limitless and if you have a boat I definitely suggest you bring it! My only issue was the number of people (the campground was nearly full) but everyone was respectful and friendly. We will be going again!
It’s so beautiful here. By far, Top 3 for our family. The water is green and clear. The only down fall is the rocky beach. I would recommend wearing sandals in the water. Campsites are very clean, some have electric outlets and USB ports. We love the fact that they are dog-friendly. Beach area is great for both those who want to be near the kid-friendly area or on the boat dockside… where less people are and it’s a lot quieter. They have a really nice convenience store right on site that has every little thing that you forgot and more. Staff is friendly and helpful.
