Recreation

Parks & Waterways Frequently Asked Questions 

Where are the Bonner County Launches?

- We have 6 boat launches owned and maintained in Bonner County: Garfield Bay, Hope Basin, Laclede, Bonner Park West, Slee street in Priest Lake, and Coolin Launch in Priest Lake. Bonner County launches are free for use throughout the entire year if boats are safe to launch at low pool. Low pool is during the winter months when the level of Lake Pend Oreille is at its lowest point. 

What Launches are you able to launch at a low level? 

Pend Oreille Lake
- The two Bonner County launches that are accessible to launch at the low pool are Garfield Bay and Hope Boat Launch. You can launch a small craft from Laclede and Bonner Park West at low pool, however, it is not advisable. 
- Pringle Park is another option for launching a boat but does not have a dock at low pool. 
Priest Lake
- Bonner County launches Slee Street and Coolin are not advisable to launch from low pool.
- Priest Lake State Park, Indian Creek launch is a good option for launching a boat. Be advised that it is a fee launch and only open for day use at this time. 
- Forest Service launches and campgrounds are closed until July 1st.

Can you camp at the launches? 

- Bonner County launches are all DAY USE SITES ONLY; NO CAMPING ALLOWED.
- If you are looking to camp, Garfield Bay Campground is still scheduled to open the weekend before Memorial Day. All Forest Service Campgrounds are closed.

Bonner County has a commitment to enhancing safe and enjoyable recreational experiences on the waters, in the parks, and upon the trails of Bonner County.

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For questions or comments please contact:

Pete Hughes
208-255-5681, ext. #4
pete.hughes@bonnercountyid.gov

Garfield Bay Campground

Campground Site Plan

A county-maintained campground. There are  29 RV campsites and 15 tent sites; sites are available for $15 and $10 a night and can be reserved by calling (208) 255-5681 ext.4 or visiting ReserveAmerica.com. 

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Bonner County Trail Planning & Maps

Bonner County Boating Regulations

Title 3 Bonner County Code – Water Safety Regulations for all Public Waters

Title 3 Bonner County Code – Public Waters – Schedule A – Infraction Penalties

Enjoy time on Bonner County waters – they are spectacular!

As a boat owner or operator,  you are responsible for your safety as well as the safety of your passengers.

Boat Responsibly!  For more information see the links for Facebook and Twitter below:

https://www.facebook.com/IdahoBoatingProgram
and
https://twitter.com/boatidaho

  • Wear a life jacket.
  • Never boat under the influence.
  • Take a boating safety course.
  • Get a free Vessel Safety Check.

Keep Eurasian Watermilfoil and Zebra Mussels out of our waterways.

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Be responsible and wash all boats and trailers before launching.