Priest Lake is one of the most popular getaway destinations in the Gem State. The lake and the long list of outdoor activities are just a few of the reasons why many individuals travel from all over to visit. However, there is one more attraction in this area of the Gem State that you’ll want to add to your itinerary: the Priest Lake Museum in Idaho. Housed in a historic cabin, this Idaho museum is interesting in many ways.
The Priest Lake Museum’s mission is to teach visitors the natural and cultural characteristics that make Priest Lake unique and distinctive.
Priest Lake Museum/Facebook
The museum is housed in the CCC Luby Bay Ranger Station. In 1989, this historic cabin was transformed into a museum after a partnership occurred between the Priest Lake Museum Association and the U.S. Forest Service.
Phillip Montour/Google The historic Luby Bay Cabin was built in 1935 by individuals in the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The cabin housed forest rangers and their families as they worked at Priest Lake for many years.
Today, the museum is run entirely by volunteers in cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service.
Priest Lake Museum/Facebook
When you visit this museum in the panhandle, you’ll see dozens of photographs and items that will teach you about the CCC at Priest Lake, regional one-room schools, bootlegging and prohibition in the area, animals that call this lake home, and so much more.
Priest Lake Museum/Facebook
Outside of the cabin, you’ll find some of the most popular exhibits at the Priest Lake Museum. These outdoor exhibits include pieces of equipment, a boat, and a pump house. A large outdoor mining exhibit is also a must-see.
Priest Lake Museum/Facebook
In addition to the outdoor exhibits, walk through the nature garden that sits next to the historic cabin. Over the years, the Priest Lake Museum has expanded to include this nature garden where more than 60 plants found in the Priest Lake area are labeled.
Priest Lake Museum/Facebook
There’s no doubt that an afternoon spent at the Priest Lake Museum is one you won’t regret. Plus, admission to the museum is free but donations are welcome. You will want to visit the Priest Lake Museum’s website for information on current hours, featured exhibits, etc.
Priest Lake Museum/Facebook
Phillip Montour/Google
The historic Luby Bay Cabin was built in 1935 by individuals in the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The cabin housed forest rangers and their families as they worked at Priest Lake for many years.
Have you ever visited the Priest Lake Museum in Idaho? What did you enjoy most about this little museum in Idaho’s panhandle? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
Did you know that Priest Lake is one of the best areas to visit during the summer months? It’s true! With the gorgeous lake, countless outdoor recreation activities, excellent places to stay, and more, there’s always something to do in this remarkable area.
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Address: Priest Lake Museum, 38 Priest Lake Museum Road, Priest River, ID 83856, USA
