Riverside State Park Equestrian Campground serves as the premier horse camping destination in the Spokane region, approximately 70 miles from Davenport, Washington. The dedicated equestrian area features corrals specifically designed for overnight horse containment and provides direct access to extensive trail systems throughout the 14,000-acre park. Generator use is permitted during designated hours, while the campground layout creates a community atmosphere among horse enthusiasts despite offering limited privacy between sites.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Riverside State Park Equestrian Campground connects to miles of scenic bridle paths along the Spokane River. "This area accesses many miles of hiking/biking/horseback trails along the scenic Spokane River, but the campground itself is reserved for equestrians," notes Gary M. in his review of Riverside State Park Equestrian Campground.
Horse training facilities: The equestrian area includes dedicated training spaces beyond the campground. According to Gary M., "There is also an arena, round pen, and trail training course a quarter mile up the road from the campground." These facilities provide valuable resources for riders looking to work with their horses during their stay.
Water recreation: For campers seeking alternatives to horseback riding near Davenport, Ruby's Resort on Silver Lake offers fishing and boating opportunities. Devon L. shares in his review of Ruby's Resort: "Great spot for fishing and playing with the kids. We stayed on the premium lake view site which was solid and away from much of the other campers so it felt private."
What campers like
Horse-friendly environment: The equestrian campground receives consistent praise for its specialized facilities. Dawn notes in her review of Riverside State Park Equestrian Campground: "Beautiful horse campground with tons of riding trials, and arena, round pen and obstacle course."
Convenient location: Despite being only minutes from Spokane, Riverside State Park creates a secluded atmosphere. Terrie M. explains in her review of Riverside State Park: "We actually live right down the road from this park and now a days, hike here regularly. But back in the day, we camped here a few times when a big vacation was not an option. This is a nice little campground with plenty of tent sites and trails to check out. It is really close to Spokane but is nestled in such a way that you would not realize the city is there."
Water features: The Spokane River adds scenic value to equestrian camping experiences. Jennifer B. mentions: "Great location by the river. Tons of great hikes in the park. Sites are primitive, but there are bathrooms and showers available. Campsite is beautiful year round."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Washington State Parks requires advance booking for equestrian sites. For groups needing additional space, Gary M. notes: "For large groups and/or overflow, permission may be granted for camping in adjacent areas suitable for high lining horses."
Site conditions: The equestrian sites are basic with limited amenities. Andrea R. observes in her review of Riverside State Park: "The bathrooms are nice, the river is beautiful. Campsites are a little small."
Weather considerations: Climate varies significantly across seasons when horse camping near Davenport. Terrie M. advises: "Can be dry and hot in the summer but in the fringe seasons, it is a great place to visit."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access: Several areas provide safe water entry points for children visiting equestrian campgrounds. Arica C. shares: "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."
Phone coverage: Cell service can be inconsistent despite proximity to Spokane. Lisa K. explains in her review of Riverside State Park: "TMobile cell service was surprisingly slow given our proximity to Spokane. We did not have reservations beforehand and got the last space available on a Monday, Advise reservations."
Wildlife viewing: The park offers opportunities for animal observation along trails. Mary C. notes: "This is a perfect getaway for people looking to unplug as no cell service (tested on sprint, verizon, and google fi) is available. There is tons of wildlife and lots of trails and riverbank to explore."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For RVers visiting Riverside State Park, riverside sites offer more space. Lisa K. advises: "Sites one through 18 are on the river and much more spacious and have full utilities. We enjoyed the beauty of the Spokane River, walking across the suspension bridge and hiking the trails."
Size limitations: Not all equestrian camping areas accommodate larger rigs. Jen S. cautions in her review of Ruby's Resort: "Beautiful views, calm, and quiet area. My only complaint is how tight the campground is. Definitely not made for big rigs or 40'. Smaller campers only."
Hookup availability: Partial hookups are standard at most campgrounds near Davenport. Joel R. explains: "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. The largest site length is 45 feet, so large RVs won't fit."
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