Dispersed and established camping options near Airway Heights, Washington range from primitive to full-service facilities. The region sits at an elevation of approximately 2,400 feet with a dry summer climate that often reaches 85-90°F from June through August. Winter camping remains available at select locations, though temperatures frequently drop below freezing from November through February.
What to do
Hiking trails: Cross a suspension bridge at Bowl and Pitcher Campground for access to riverside trails. "There is tons of wildlife and lots of trails and riverbank to explore. My favorite thing was the suspension bridge over the river. Lots of space for swimming and fishing!" notes Mary C.
Swimming spots: Lake swimming is available at Lake Spokane Campground, especially during summer months. "There's a nice swimming area and I hear that the fishing is great although I haven't done it myself," writes Amanda B. The campground includes "a nice gated off swim section at the lake."
Equestrian activities: Riders can access specialized facilities at the Equestrian Campground. "Beautiful horse campground with tons of riding trials, and arena, round pen and obstacle course," explains Dawn, highlighting amenities designed specifically for those camping with horses.
What campers like
Proximity to urban services: Northern Quest RV Resort offers urban convenience. "Easy to get around, quick access to a gas station and Wal-Mart is super close," writes Wes W. The resort sits within Airway Heights proper, allowing campers to balance outdoor stays with access to services.
Clean facilities: Maintained restrooms and updated amenities receive consistent praise. "The 4 newly upgraded bathrooms each have a flush toilet, sink, and accessible shower," reports Nanette C. about Lake Spokane Campground. These improvements enhance comfort for tent campers without full RV facilities.
Space between sites: Campers value privacy at smaller campgrounds in the region. "The sites are enclosed in a circle, making a nice walk or bike ride," notes Mary C. Sites at Willow Creek Retreat provide "a beautiful open space but nestled under a willow tree, sites are nicely spaced out," according to Nora H.
What you should know
Military base access restrictions: Fairchild AFB FamCamp limits camping to qualified personnel. "This is a campground on a military base, access is limited to active and retired military. Use the Rambo Rd gate during normal business hours," advises Jim T. The campground includes 24 full-service sites.
Train noise concerns: Several campgrounds experience railroad sounds. "There is an active train track nearby," reports Eryk G. about Spokane KOA. Similarly, at Hog Lake, "the further you go down the gravel road, the further you'll be from the train noise," suggests Erin S.
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds shut down completely during winter months. "Hopefully just for the winter," notes Hall M. about one closed site. "Drove up a winding road for 20 min to find the park was closes [sic]," reports Michael S. about a Nine Mile Recreation Area visit.
Tips for camping with families
Free camping options: Dragoon Creek Campground offers no-cost camping with proper permits. "Free 3 nights with a Discover Pass. Really clean pit toilets. Nice camp host," writes Rowan R. This option provides budget-friendly access for families watching expenses.
Kid-friendly water access: Safe swimming areas accommodate children at some locations. "There is a nice cement slab just in the water so it makes a safe place for kids," writes Arica C. These designated swimming zones provide controlled water environments.
Entertainment during extended stays: Hog Lake Campground offers primitive camping with natural attractions. "Found this last minute after deciding to drive further than planned. Quite a few spots available," reports Vivian N. The campground provides basic sites with access to a lake and hiking opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Various power options exist across campgrounds. "Sites one through 18 are on the river and much more spacious and have full utilities," notes Lisa K. about Riverside State Park. "We have a 21ft trailer towed behind a pickup truck and it's able to fit in most spots," explains Erin S. about Hog Lake.
RV length limitations: Size restrictions vary significantly between campgrounds. "The largest site length is 45 feet, so large RVs won't fit," warns Joel R. about Bowl and Pitcher. Other locations like Northern Quest RV Resort accommodate larger rigs with "concrete sites available," according to John.
Cell service coverage: Connectivity varies widely across the region. "TMobile cell service was surprisingly slow given our proximity to Spokane," reports Lisa K. Other campers note "excellent phone service" at dispersed sites like Hog Lake where "cell phone towers just around the corner" provide unexpected coverage.
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