Clear Lake Military and Clear Lake Recreation Area provide year-round glamping options in Cheney, Washington, with the primary season running from May through September. Located at approximately 2,400 feet elevation, the area experiences hot summer days often exceeding 85°F and cold winters with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing. Water levels in Clear Lake fluctuate seasonally, which affects boat launch accessibility.
What to do
Hiking trails nearby: Riverside State Park offers extensive hiking opportunities 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. The campgroundl has partial hook ups and is very camper friendly otherwise," notes Mary C. about Bowl and Pitcher Campground.
Fishing at Hawk Creek: Located about an hour from Cheney, this area provides good fishing opportunities. "Excellent quiet campground. Beautiful scenery," says Steve S. about Hawk Creek Campground. The campground costs $9 a night in off-season and $18 in summer.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife watching opportunities. At Wolf Lodge Campground, visitors report seeing various species. "River access from the campground to coeur d'Alene lake. Close to the city. Beautiful area. Interstate noise is not too bad," shares Nancy C., adding that you can find "plenty of wildlife" in the surrounding areas.
What campers like
Affordable tent camping: Tent campers can find budget-friendly options at several parks. "Only $15 for a dry tent space with shade and view of the lake! Why not give it 5 stars? The visitors are primarily young, drinking, playing loud music, driving fast and kicking up dust," reports Michelle R. about Clear Lake Recreation Area.
Family-friendly swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas suitable for families. "This is a place that my family and I visit a lot. We love how calm the river is and the convenience of bringing it dogs. There is a nice cement slab just in the water so it makes a safe place for kids," says Arica C. about her experiences at Riverside State Park.
Waterfall access: Unique water features add interest to camping trips. "Super crowded on weekends. Rangers were there at least 3 times a day to clean bathrooms. Very pretty with a lot of wildlife," writes Ethan H. about Hawk Creek, mentioning the waterfall that "really flows in the spring, but slows as summer sets in."
What you should know
Military ID requirements: Some recreation areas near Cheney restrict access. "Military ID required. Sites 1-15 have zero shade and are close together. Dogs are not allowed on the beach or lake areas," warns Jennifer B. about Clear Lake Recreation Area.
Seasonal water levels: Lake Roosevelt's water levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year. "The waterfall was about 30-40' high and emerged from a rock crevice. The sites were t that private but only a few people were there," notes Judy T. about Hawk Creek, adding that "the boat launch is only available during high water."
Weekend crowds: Several parks experience heavy use during peak periods. At Porcupine Bay Campground, one camper observed, "A beautiful spot for family camp outs. Lots of room for kids to play safely. Warm welcoming locals. Warm relaxing water," though others noted that "Sites are not shaded at all and very close together."
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds offer better swimming conditions for children than others. "My family has been going to this campground and area since before I was born. We used to go every summer growing up. There's a designated swimming area for kids, a dock, and a playground," recommends Natasha S. about Porcupine Bay.
Activity options: Families enjoy campgrounds with diverse recreation opportunities. "Clear Lake Recreation Area is amazing! The scenery is beautiful, and there are plenty of activities for everyone," says Manisha S. about Clear Lake Recreation Area.
Cabin glamping for comfort: Families seeking more comfort near Cheney can try cabin options. "Beach isn't the greatest, full of goose poop. Water isn't the clearest, but works for kayaking and paddle boarding," reports Jen B. about Clear Lake Military, adding that "the cabins do have ac and electricity, no water."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV campsites with full hookups can be found within driving distance of Cheney. "Bowl and Pitcher campground has several partial-hookup sites with electricity and water, and several with no hook ups. There is a dump station, and two restrooms both with showers," explains Joel R. about Riverside State Park.
Site size limitations: Be aware of length restrictions when bringing larger rigs. "The largest site length is 45 feet, so large RVs won't fit," cautions Joel R. about Riverside State Park, adding that "it is very close to the city, so you can eat out if you don't want to cook."
Seasonal considerations: RV parks in the area have varying operating seasons. "Only reason I am not giving this five stars that's because it runs between 35 to 75 a night to stay there ranging from camping to full RV hookup," states Steve M. about Liberty Lake Regional Park, noting it offers a beach for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
