The lake is fed by a combination of stream inflow, snowmelt, and groundwater. It is surrounded by mountains and forests, making it a popular destination for outdoor recreational activities, including skiing, hiking, and fishing. The lake has a rich history, as it was originally used by Native American tribes for hunting and fishing. Later, it became a popular spot for logging and milling operations. Today, the lake is used for both agricultural and recreational purposes. The Priest Lake snowpack is an important source of water for irrigation and hydropower generation in the region. The lake is also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from across the country.
| Gage Height, Ft 24hr Change | 3.36% |
| Percent of Normal | 159% |
| Minimum |
0.01 ft
2018-03-08 |
| Maximum |
6.31 ft
2022-12-20 |
| Average | 1 ft |
| Dam_Height | 12 |
| Hydraulic_Height | 8 |
| Drainage_Area | 572 |
| Year_Completed | 1979 |
| Nid_Storage | 76100 |
| Foundations | Rock, Soil |
| Surface_Area | 23800 |
| Hazard_Potential | Significant |
| Outlet_Gates | None |
| River_Or_Stream | PRIEST LAKE PRIEST RIVER |
| Dam_Length | 194 |
| Nid_Height | 12 |
Priest R Outflow Nr Coolin
|
1350cfs |
Pack River Nr Colburn Id
|
610cfs |
Priest River Nr Priest River Id
|
2030cfs |
Pend Oreille River At Newport Wa
|
24900cfs |
Kootenai River @ Tribal Hatchery Nr Bonners Ferry
|
15700cfs |
Outlet Creek Near Metaline Falls
|
19cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Outlet
|
||
Outlet at Priest Lake Campground
|
||
Bartoo Island Group Site/Campgrounds
|
||
Luby Bay Campground
|
||
Luby Bay
|
||
Schneider
|