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Priest Lake Area

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,…

  • Managed by: USDA Forest Service
  • Coordinates: 48.579308, -116.912149

Nearby & related campgrounds

  • KALISPELL ISLAND BOAT-IN CAMPGROUND
  • LUBY BAY
  • BARTOO ISLAND BOAT-IN CAMPGROUND
  • REEDER BAY
  • OUTLET AT PRIEST LAKE
  • OSPREY

Frequently asked questions

Is Priest Lake Area reservable?

Priest Lake Area is primarily first-come, first-served. Use the availability view to gauge how busy it is before you go.

Where is Priest Lake Area?

See the map for Priest Lake Area's exact location and directions.

How do I book a campsite at Priest Lake Area?

Pick your dates on the availability calendar, then reserve through the official booking link. You can also set an alert and we'll notify you if a sold-out date opens up.

Check campsite availability