Idaho’s state parks authority has launched a lottery system for two of its most popular campgrounds.
The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation says anyone interested in reserving group camp spaces at Priest Lake State Park and Bear Lake State Park must now attempt to do so through an online lottery system. Idaho DPR says the move is necessary as demand is too high for these locations—campgrounds at the lakes have been booked up in full within minutes of sales opening.
“The lottery approach offers all applicants an equal opportunity to secure a reservation, regardless of internet speed or timing,” officials there explained.
The lottery application windows for the two parks opened Monday, March 31, and will close on April 15.
Details are covered on Idaho DPR’s website. Among the clauses, campers must book for a minimum of two nights but no more than seven nights. There’s also a nonrefundable $25 application fee.
Lottery winners will be required to sign a “reservation contract” and pay in full.
The agency promises to keep the system as fair as possible for everyone participating.“
The chances of being selected for a reservation are the same no matter when a person enters the lottery during the window,” Idaho DPR said. “After the application period closes, lottery winners will be selected electronically through the new reservation system and will be notified soon after.”
Park Info
Park Name:
Priest Lake and Bear Lake State Parks
Location:
Idaho, USA
More Information:
