This free dispersed camping area operates year-round on BLM land, accessible via a bumpy gravel road that requires careful navigation in the final half mile. The main camping spot consists of a large gravel parking lot with a vault toilet and trailhead access, though several smaller sites exist along the access route for those willing to explore.
Campers find themselves in open terrain with limited shade, where wind can be a factor strong enough to challenge canopies and awnings. The area attracts wildlife including wild turkeys, coyotes, and field squirrels, with the sounds of distant trains occasionally audible but not intrusive. Abby M. notes the location is "surrounded by fields and beautiful sunsets." Cell service is available with T-Mobile reporting three bars of 5G coverage.
A hiking trail extends from the main parking area, providing recreation opportunities beyond the camping itself. The terrain varies from hard-packed rocky ground that challenges tent campers to more accommodating spots, though RVs and vans handle the conditions more easily. Fire restrictions may be in place during dry periods, and shooting is prohibited.
Road access requires attention, particularly for those arriving after dark. From I-90 exit 254, travelers head east on Sprague Highway Road for over two miles, then turn left on Miller Ranch Road before taking the next right. meredith describes finding "about a half mile on the left will be the parking lot, trailhead & toilet." The area works well as an overnight stop for road trips, with dumpsters available though toilet cleanliness can be inconsistent. For additional camping in the region, places to camp around Sprague provide alternatives within the broader area.
Description
The Fishtrap Area offers 9,000 acres of beautiful landscapes and an old farmstead, with habitats ranging from forest to shrub-steppe, grassland, and wetlands. Fishtrap is home to two scenic fishing lakes and numerous species of birds and other wildlife. The historic Folsom Farm Recreation Site demonstrates how the landscape was converted into small farms, ranches, and communities beginning in the late 1800’s. Enjoy the chance to explore, view and study nature, picnic, backpack, horseback ride, mountain bike, or hunt throughout the entire Fishtrap area. Fishing for stocked rainbow trout is popular at Fishtrap Lake, and during the winter season at Hog Canyon Lake. Know Before You Go: Fishtrap Recreation Area is open year-round has no developed campsites. The South Loop Trailhead parking lot has substantial space for vehicle and RV parking/camping. Additional minimal space is available at the Folsom Farm, and Hog Lake Loop Trailhead parking lots. See the Fishtrap Area map. vehicle and RV parking/camping is limited to existing parking areas and camping pull-outs. Dispersed (tent) camping is allowed. Please practice the seven Leave No Trace principles when recreating on Public Lands. Check Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) fishing regulations for fishing seasons at Hog Canyon Lake and Fishtrap Lake. Both lakes have concrete boat launches maintained by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (a paid in advance parking permit from WDFW is required.)
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsFishtrap Recreation Area is located in Washington near Sprague
Directions
Fishtrap is just a 30-mile drive southwest of Spokane, Washington. From Interstate 90, take Exit 254, and then travel east for 1.75 miles to the public land access.
Coordinates
47.33401758 N
117.862981 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 5/20/26
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/20/26
AT&T5GGood Coverage
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 5/20/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/20/26
- AT&T5GGood Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Fishtrap Recreation Area needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 27 min from Spokane, WA
- 55 min from Coeur d'Alene, ID
- 1 hr 50 min from Lewiston, ID
- 2 hrs 12 min from Walla Walla, WA
