Camping options near Airway Heights include a mix of established campgrounds and dispersed sites. Located on the western edge of Spokane at an elevation of 2,400 feet, this area experiences hot, dry summers and cold winters with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing from November through March. Most campgrounds in the region remain open from late spring through early fall, with limited winter camping available.
What to do
Suspension bridge hiking: At Bowl and Pitcher Campground in Riverside State Park, visitors can explore scenic trails along the Spokane River. "This is a larger campground great for RV, trailers and tents. The sites are enclosed in a circle, making a nice walk or bike ride... my favorite thing was the suspension bridge over the river. Lots of space for swimming and fishing!" writes Mary C.
Lake activities: Lake Spokane Campground offers water recreation opportunities about 45 minutes from Airway Heights. "The park by the lake was very well taken care of as most of the campers there spent the day swimming in the nice gated off swim section at the lake," notes Jake A. The campground includes a boat launch and designated swimming areas.
Horseback riding: The Riverside State Park Equestrian Campground provides specialized facilities for those traveling with horses. "This place is such a well put together establishment, it has the most beautiful breath taking sceneries. It also seems like the perfect atmosphere to really be able to bond with your horse," explains Keila C. The campground connects to extensive riding trails.
What campers like
Spacious sites: The Northern Quest RV Resort offers generous spacing between RV sites. "Spacious lots with grass and asphalt pads. Easy to get around, quick access to a gas station and Wal-Mart is super close," reports Wes W. The resort maintains high cleanliness standards with concrete pads.
Clean facilities: Lake Spokane Campground receives consistent praise for its maintenance. "Bathrooms were very clean, and the individual showers were free, which was a great bonus. No mosquito or tick problems at all during our stay," shares Skyla D. The campground features upgraded restrooms with flush toilets and accessible showers.
Budget-friendly options: Hog Lake Campground provides free dispersed camping with basic amenities. "We have stayed here twice while driving through the area. It's quiet and really close to the highway. There are 10-12 spots along the gravel road to Hog Lake," notes Erin S. The campground includes a dumpster and portable toilet despite being a no-fee site.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures in the Airway Heights region regularly exceed 90°F between July and August, while winter camping requires cold-weather gear. "Can be dry and hot in the summer but in the fringe seasons, it is a great place to visit," advises Terrie M. about Riverside State Park.
Reservation requirements: Most dog-friendly campgrounds near Airway Heights fill quickly during peak season. "We did not have reservations beforehand and got the last space available on a Monday. Advise reservations," cautions Lisa K. about Riverside State Park.
Noise factors: Several campgrounds in the area experience noise from transportation corridors. The Spokane KOA Journey has "train tracks nearby. A nice campsite close to Spokane and Idaho. Friendly staff and clean. I really like this spot, but the noise from the trains is loud. Be sure to bring earplugs if you are tent camping," warns Cinco D.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas appropriate for various ages. "This is a place that my family and I visit a lot. We love how calm the river is and the convenience of bringing dogs. There is a nice cement slab just in the water so it makes a safe place for kids," shares Arica C. about Riverside State Park.
Cell service considerations: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds, affecting ability to use devices. "TMobile cell service was surprisingly slow given our proximity to Spokane," notes Lisa K. about Riverside State Park, while Skyla D. reports "T-Mobile service worked well" at Lake Spokane Campground.
Educational opportunities: Dragoon Creek Campground provides creek access for nature exploration. "The creek makes for a decent fall wading pool, but not much more. However, if you are looking for a spot to set up and relax, this is perfect," explains Henry H. The campground requires a Discover Pass but has no additional camping fees.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Willow Creek Retreat offers electric hookups in a pastoral setting. "This is five acres in a lovely pasture by a creek with large trees. There is 30 amp electricity and a porta-potty. Sites are big and grassy. Relaxed and quiet place," describes Heidi C.
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have restrictions on RV length. "Bowl and Pitcher campground has several partial-hookup sites with electricity and water, and several with no hook ups. The largest site length is 45 feet, so large RVs won't fit," advises Joel R. about Riverside State Park.
Overnight transit options: For RVers passing through, Northern Quest provides convenient overnight parking. "Great free spot. Stay hitched and don't pay a thing. No hookups, just a great safe overnight place to stay," says David W., referring to the casino parking area separate from the main RV resort.
