Idaho / Bonner County

Priest River

Closed — Closed for the season. Opens mid-May. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.

About

Priest River Campground is situated on the banks of Priest River, shaded by mature firs, cedars and pines, just upstream from the confluence of the Pend Oreille River. The campground is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as part of the Albeni Falls Dam recreation areas and is locally known as "The Mudhole." The campground offers 20 campsites with flush toilets and hot showers, all reservable through Recreation.gov with no first-come, first-served sites. Sites accommodate up to 2 motorized vehicles, 1 camping unit, 2 tents, and 8 people each. The campground also features a group shelter with electricity. Water activities are popular here including kayaking, fishing, and swimming. The day-use area includes a picnic shelter, playground, softball field, swim beach, boat ramp, and a large grassy area for family activities. Adjacent to the campground is the Priest River Wildlife Area, offering excellent fishing as well as exceptional birding opportunities. Wildlife in the area includes bald eagles, osprey, a wide variety of birds, and deer. The campground is located near Highway 2 and is subject to road noise. The nearby Albeni Falls Visitor Center features exhibits on the history of the dam and natural features of the area, with dam tours given daily during summer. The town of Priest River, located 1 mile west, offers gas and grocery services.

Directions

Priest River Recreation Area is 1 mile east of the town of Priest River on Highway 2. After crossing the river it will be the first road on the right.

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