How much does camping cost at Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground?

Camping fees at Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground are $15/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground before I book?

Yes! Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground has 21 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground?

Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground is open May 29 to October 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground?

Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground have?

Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground has 52 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What activities can I do at Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground?

Popular activities at Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground

3.70

57 reviews

32003 Hwy 57

Top 6% in IDFall

C-Report Card

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Featured in:Group Camping Idaho

Quick Facts

2,400 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

52 campsites

Season

Open May 29, 2025 to...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on US Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

2,400 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

52 campsites

Season

Open May 29, 2025 to...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on US Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground

$15.00 / night

Campsite Fees

BOAT IN-304122: $15.00; Kalispell Island-Boat in campsites: $15.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in...

No campsite fee categories listed.

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Provider

208-443-2512mthom@fs.fed.us

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Campground Map

32003 Hwy 57

Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground

32003 Hwy 57

Nearby places

Priest River (31 miles, ~45 minutes drive time to boat launch)

Weather at Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground

Best Time to Camp at Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground

Best season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of crisp weather, dramatic foliage, and solitude — daytime highs typically range from the low 50s to mid 60s°F with chilly mornings in the 30s–40s, making paddling and shoreline hikes comfortable and mosquito-free. Water is still relatively mild for late-season swimming and fishing, while deer and waterfowl activity increases, creating excellent wildlife-viewing and photography opportunities. Crowds thin out after the summer peak (the campground’s peak season is Peak months: September, October, August, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 6% in ID

Overview calls fall best: crisp weather, foliage, and solitude; cooler temps and strong scenery.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 29 to October 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 29, 2025 to October 31, 2025. Peak season runs May 29 to September 14, while non-peak season runs September 15 to October 31.

About Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground

Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground sits on a forested island in Priest Lake, accessible only by watercraft. Operated by the US Forest Service, this mid-sized campground offers primitive tent sites with fire rings and picnic tables, attracting paddlers and anglers seeking a backcountry feel without a long portage. The island's perimeter trail provides easy shoreline exploration, and reviewers consistently note the mountain views and quiet mornings, though boat traffic can increase noise during busy weekends.

Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground offers various camping types, including single and group campsites accessible only by boat. Primitive camping is emphasized as there are minimal facilities.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of crisp weather, dramatic foliage, and solitude — daytime highs typically range from the low 50s to mid 60s°F with chilly mornings in the 30s–40s, making paddling and shoreline hikes comfortable and mosquito-free. Water is still relatively mild for late-season swimming and fishing, while deer and waterfowl activity increases, creating excellent wildlife-viewing and photography opportunities. Crowds thin out after the summer peak (the campground’s peak season is Peak months: September, October, August, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation2400 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe island rises from a glacial lake that reaches 300 feet deep, surrounded by the Selkirk Mountains. A 2.5-mile loop trail circles the island through old-growth forest. Wildlife includes bald eagles, ospreys, great blue herons, and deer. The shoreline offers a mix of beaches and rocky outcrops. Water clarity is high enough to see underwater features. Views of the surrounding mountains are visible from many sites, especially along the Peninsula Loop. Erosion from boat traffic has impacted some shoreline areas, according to reviews.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging accommodations were mentioned in the authoritative sources.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay is 14 nights per rolling 30 days.

Groups

The Three Pines Group Site can accommodate 10 to 30 people and is located on the southeast side of the island. It was renumbered from Site #001 to Site #29.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations are managed via Recreation.gov, accessible by website, app, or contact center.

AccessibilityThe campground is only accessible by boat. User reviews and authoritative content do not offer explicit details on accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.

Site SizeSites vary from small to spacious, accommodating groups and single campers alike. User reviews highlight sites such as Site 8 for its ample space for multiple tents and scenic views.

PrivacyPrivacy is minimal at most sites due to the proximity of trails and other campers. "There's very little privacy at this site due to the trail passing right through the camping area" (Review by ALANA M).

Total Campsites52 campsites

Recommended SitesCampsite #8 offers space for multiple tents and good sunset views, but it experiences more wind. Campsite #52 provides semi-privacy but is impacted by noise and proximity to other campers. Campsite #30 features clean outhouses and swimming-friendly areas.

Best CampsitesSite 8 on the Peninsula Loop gets praise for space (fits multiple tents), sunset views, and scenery. Site 52 on Kalispell Vista Loop offers semi-privacy. Site 30 on Three Pines Loop sits near swimming areas and has clean facilities. Some sites lack privacy because the trail cuts through the camping area.

Need help booking Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

The campground offers rugged camping experiences with a mix of amenities. Each campsite is boat-accessible only, making it ideal for adventurers seeking a remote getaway. While picnic tables and fire rings are available, potable water is not provided, and campers must pack in and out their supplies. Portable toilets are primarily required, with toilet buckets available for checkout at the Kalispell Boat Launch. The pack-it-in pack-it-out rule ensures minimal ecological impact. "Please bring garbage bags; this is a 'pack in-pack out' facility."

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Group Sites

I manage this campground

Things to do at Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground

Kalispell Island offers a range of recreational activities centered around the natural beauty of Priest Lake. Popular activities include hiking the 2.5-mile loop trail encircling the island, kayaking through the 3.5-mile thoroughfare to Upper Priest Lake, and fishing for Mackinaw trout, Dolly Varden, and Kokanee. Wildlife viewing and birdwatching are common along the trail. Winter visitors can enjoy ice fishing and snowmobiling on nearby trails. User reviews reflect an appreciation for these activities despite occasional disturbances.

Boating4.5/5Top 2% in Idaho

Campground is boat-in only; paddling/boat access is core to the experience and widely praised.

Water Sports4.5/5Top 1% in Idaho

Hiking4.0/5

Fishing4.0/5

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5Island, forested and relatively remote — likely low light and good night skies (inferred).

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available; campers are required to use portable toilet facilities.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.7

57 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are mixed, with sentiments ranging from appreciation for the natural beauty and quiet environment to frustration with noise, lack of privacy, and issues with reservation policies. "We love Kalispel Island! Very peaceful" (Review by KATIE N). "Zero stars for this place. Loud, obnoxious and drunk is how I would characterize the boaters" (Review by Jim Bellatty).

Review Summaries

Based on 57 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praise the natural scenery, boating access, and scenic trails. "The trail around the island was easy and fun for a daily activity" (Review by LEOLA R). "Clean and quiet, beautiful mountain...

Based on 57 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include noise disturbances from boaters, lack of privacy, and dissatisfaction with reservation policies. "Loud, many other campers on the island" (Review by BECKY K). "Our selected camp...

Based on 57 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews provide detailed insights. For example, Site 8 is spacious and offers sunset views, while Site 52 lacks a sandy beach but provides semi-privacy. "Site was amazing, had space for...

Based on 57 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring sufficient water and plan for the pack-it-in-pack-it-out policy. Consider the reservation system's limitations and potential difficulties. "Must bring in all your water!" (Review by ELIZABETH...

Based on 57 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, though reviews highlight increased noise and busyness during peak times such as July 4th. Winter activities include ice fishing and snowmobiling, but no user...

Based on 57 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Nice boat launch." (Review by TIMOTHY S). "Camp host was amazing. Camp spot was amazing. The weather was amazing." (Review by DAMON N). "Sites in Rocky Point are a bit small and two of them have...

Based on 57 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility issues are noted indirectly, such as challenges with toilet setups and noise from nearby trails. "There's very little privacy at this site due to the trail passing right through the...

Based on 57 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet-related reviews generally highlight disturbances caused by pets, such as barking at night and roaming. "Dogs bark and roam into your site in the middle of the night" (Review by KATE B).

Based on 57 reviews

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Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground

$15.00 / night

Campsite Fees

BOAT IN-304122: $15.00; Kalispell Island-Boat in campsites: $15.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in...

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

208-443-2512mthom@fs.fed.us

Go if

You want a water-access-only campground with a backcountry feel and don't mind primitive facilities.

Skip if

You need vehicle access, full amenities, or guaranteed solitude from weekend boaters.

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Bartoo Island Boat-In Campground

32203 Hwy 57, Priest River, ID 83856, USA

Bartoo Island Boat-In Campground sits on Priest Lake in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, accessible only by watercraft. This small, primitive Forest Service site offers tent and group camping with fire rings and picnic tables on an island setting. Campers boat, fish, and hike during the summer season when the lake warms into the 60s.

Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground

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Quick Facts

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About Kalispell Island Boat-In Campground

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