Plowboy Campground

For us Idaho locals who seek a true wilderness experience, where the journey is as rewarding as the destination, Plowboy Campground at Upper Priest Lake offers an unparalleled escape. This isn't your typical drive-up site; it's a testament to the raw beauty and quiet solitude that defines so much of our state's untouched natural landscape. As one adventurous camper shared, it's a "fun experience" even for a first-time backpacker, emphasizing that the effort to reach this serene spot is entirely worth it for the "Gorgeous scenery, and the lake is so serene." Plowboy Campground is a cherished destination for those who appreciate the peace that comes from being truly immersed in nature, far from the sounds of civilization, yet still within reach for a determined hiker or cyclist.

Plowboy Campground is uniquely situated in the pristine Upper Priest Lake area, with its address listed as Coolin, ID 83821, USA. This location is key to understanding its accessibility and the type of experience it offers. Unlike many campgrounds, Plowboy is a "hike, bike, or boat in" campsite. This means you cannot drive directly to your camping spot.

The most common way to access Plowboy Campground is via a scenic trail. As highlighted by a reviewer, it's approximately a "3 mile hike in," which for many takes "about an hour and a half to get there with the ups and downs of the trail." This trail typically originates from the end of the paved road near the Upper Priest Lake Trailhead, which can be reached by driving north from Coolin. The path, while having "a few small inclines," is described as manageable even for an "inexperienced backpacker," making it an accessible entry point into backcountry camping.

Alternatively, adventurous individuals can bike the same trail, or access the campground by boat. Upper Priest Lake is only accessible by boat via a channel from Priest Lake, adding another layer of remote charm. For those utilizing a boat, you would launch from a public boat ramp on Priest Lake and navigate through the historic Thorofare channel to Upper Priest Lake, then proceed to the campground's shoreline access. This multi-modal access ensures that while the campground offers a remote feel, it's within reach for those willing to embrace the journey, setting it apart as a true wilderness gem in Idaho.

Plowboy Campground is a primitive backcountry campground, meaning it offers essential services designed for minimal impact and self-sufficiency. You won't find amenities like flush toilets, showers, or electricity here; the focus is truly on connecting with nature. Based on typical offerings for such a remote, hike-in site and the provided reviews, campers can expect:

• Designated Campsites: While offering "Plenty of spaces to camp," these are typically cleared, relatively flat areas for pitching tents, often with a natural ground cover suitable for sleeping.
• Fire Rings: Simple rock fire rings are usually present at each designated site, allowing for campfires (always check for current fire restrictions before lighting a fire, especially in Idaho's dry summers).
• Outhouses/Vault Toilets: Basic vault toilets or pit toilets are generally available to provide essential sanitation and minimize environmental impact.
• No Potable Water: As a primitive site, potable water is typically not available. Campers must "pack in" all their drinking water or be prepared to filter/treat water from the lake, which is highly recommended.
• Pack It In, Pack It Out: Visitors are expected to adhere strictly to Leave No Trace principles, meaning all trash and waste must be packed out, leaving no trace behind.
• Bear Boxes/Food Storage: Given it is "Bear country," it's likely that bear-resistant food storage options (such as bear boxes at communal points or requiring bear canisters) are either available or strongly encouraged/required to protect both campers and wildlife.

Plowboy Campground truly shines with its unique features and highlights, offering a genuine wilderness experience that appeals to the adventurous spirit of Idahoans.

• Accessible Backcountry Experience: Described as "the easiest to get to" among the hike/bike/boat-in sites on Upper Priest Lake, Plowboy provides an excellent entry point for those new to backpacking. The "3 mile hike in... took about an hour and a half" is manageable for "inexperienced backpacker," despite "a few small inclines." This balance of challenge and attainability makes it uniquely appealing.
• Gorgeous Scenery: Visitors consistently praise the "Gorgeous scenery" surrounding the campground. Expect lush forests, the majestic Selkirk Mountains, and the stunning, clear waters of Upper Priest Lake, providing a breathtaking backdrop for your camping adventure.
• Serene Lake Access: The lake is described as "so serene," emphasizing its peaceful and tranquil nature. Despite visiting on a "Memorial weekend" when it was "busier than I expected," the lake maintained its calm demeanor. Direct access to the water is perfect for swimming (though "Lake was cold but I got in twice!"), fishing, or launching non-motorized boats.
• Dog-Friendly Environment: A significant highlight for many Idahoans is the ability to have "your dog off leash in most areas." This makes Plowboy an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts who wish to share their adventures with their canine companions (with the caveat to keep them from straying too far).
• Bear Country Immersion: Being in "Bear country" is a unique feature that underscores the true wilderness nature of the campground. While it necessitates preparedness (bring "bear spray and/or other protection"), it also speaks to the rich wildlife environment and the opportunity for a genuine backcountry encounter.
• Extensive Trail System: Beyond the access trail, "trails lead further north to more hiking and camping!" This indicates that Plowboy serves as a basecamp for extended exploration into the Upper Priest Lake Scenic Area and the surrounding Idaho Panhandle National Forests, offering endless possibilities for avid hikers and backpackers.
• Secluded and Primitive Charm: The "hike, bike, or boat in" access inherently filters out large crowds and vehicle noise, preserving a quiet and isolated atmosphere that is highly valued by those seeking a true escape into nature.
• Abundant Space: Despite its popularity, the review mentions "Plenty of spaces to camp," suggesting well-dispersed sites that maintain a sense of privacy even on busy weekends.
• Buggy, but Manageable: The explicit warning to bring "LOTS OF BUG SPRAY!" indicates that while bugs can be present, they are a known factor that can be mitigated with proper preparation, not a deterrent to the overall experience.

For those ready to embark on a memorable backpacking or boating adventure to Plowboy Campground, here is the essential contact information:

Address: Coolin, ID 83821, USA

It is important to note that specific phone numbers for individual primitive, hike-in campgrounds like Plowboy are typically not available. Instead, general inquiries and information would be handled by the managing district of the U.S. Forest Service. Plowboy Campground is managed by the Priest Lake Ranger District of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding conditions (e.g., trail status, fire restrictions, bear activity), regulations, and any potential closures, it is highly recommended to:

Contact the Priest Lake Ranger District: While a direct phone number for Plowboy isn't provided, you can usually find the contact information for the Priest Lake Ranger District by searching "Priest Lake Ranger District phone number" or "Idaho Panhandle National Forests contact." Their general public information line would be the best point of contact.

Check Official Forest Service Websites: Look for information on the U.S. Forest Service website for the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. They often have dedicated pages for specific campgrounds and trails.

Consult Recreation.gov: Although Plowboy might be a first-come, first-served site, Recreation.gov is a good resource for general information on federal recreation sites.

Given its remote nature and the need for preparedness (e.g., bear spray, bug spray, packing in water), gathering current information before your trip is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Plowboy Campground is an ideal destination for us Idaho locals, perfectly embodying the spirit of outdoor adventure and the love for pristine wilderness that defines our state. We cherish places that offer a true escape, where the journey itself becomes part of the experience, and Plowboy delivers this beautifully. The fact that it's a "hike, bike, or boat in" campsite immediately sets it apart, catering to our desire for more remote and less crowded natural settings. This creates an atmosphere where, as one camper noted, the "lake is so serene," even on a busy weekend.

For Idahoans, the manageable "3 mile hike in" makes backpacking accessible, even for those new to it, offering a taste of the backcountry without requiring extreme endurance. The reward is truly magnificent: "Gorgeous scenery" that reflects the breathtaking beauty we are so proud of in our state. The ability to have "your dog off leash in most areas" is a significant draw, as many of us love sharing our outdoor excursions with our canine companions, making it a truly inclusive adventure.

Furthermore, Plowboy's location in "Bear country" underscores its authenticity as a wilderness experience, reminding us of the importance of preparedness and respect for nature – values deeply ingrained in Idaho's outdoor culture. The explicit advice to bring "LOTS OF BUG SPRAY!" also speaks to a realistic understanding of outdoor life here. Beyond the campground itself, the fact that "trails lead further north to more hiking and camping!" means Plowboy isn't just a destination, but a springboard for endless exploration into the expansive and wild beauty of Upper Priest Lake and its surrounding forests. For locals seeking a peaceful, picturesque, and genuinely immersive outdoor experience, Plowboy Campground is not just suitable; it's a quintessential Idaho adventure waiting to be discovered and revisited.