Camping near Mead, Washington combines riverside sites and mountain-adjacent terrain at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 2,300 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons, with summer daytime temperatures typically reaching 85°F while winter nights regularly drop below freezing. Many sites restrict campfires during July and August due to seasonal fire danger conditions.
What to do
Hiking trails and suspension bridge: Riverside State Park features extensive hiking trails and a distinctive suspension bridge over the Spokane River. "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. My favorite thing was the suspension bridge over the river. Lots of space for swimming and fishing!" explains visitor Mary C. about Bowl and Pitcher Campground.
Off-road activities: Beyond standard camping, some areas near Mead provide designated off-road areas. Riverside State Park offers this unique feature, with one camper noting, "Plenty of things to do at the park, the off-road park is a lot of fun." The park combines natural settings with designated areas for off-road enthusiasts.
Swimming options: Multiple water access points allow for swimming during summer months. At Liberty Lake Regional Park, Kris S. mentions, "Great place to explore. Lots of hiking trails. Nice beach area for swimming." The lake provides a cool retreat during hot Eastern Washington summers.
What campers like
Natural seclusion close to city amenities: Despite proximity to Spokane, many campsites feel remote. "We actually live right down the road from this park and now a days, hike here regularly. It is really close to Spokane but is nestled in such a way that you would not realize the city is there," explains Terrie M. about Riverside State Park.
Year-round camping with seasonal beauty: Some areas remain accessible through all seasons, offering different experiences. "Campsite is beautiful year round," reports Jen B. about Bowl and Pitcher Campground, noting its consistent appeal regardless of season.
Free camping with Discover Pass: Dragoon Creek Campground offers no-cost camping with proper documentation. "Free 3 nights with a Discover Pass. Really clean pit toilets. Nice camp host. Beautiful nature, can't complain about a thing!" writes Rowan R. The site provides a budget-friendly option for campers with Washington state passes.
What you should know
Train noise affects some campgrounds: Several sites near Mead have nearby train tracks. At Spokane KOA Journey, Cinco D. warns, "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." Multiple reviews mention train disruptions at various campgrounds.
Limited cell service in certain areas: Despite proximity to urban areas, connectivity varies significantly. Lisa K. reports about Riverside State Park, "TMobile cell service was surprisingly slow given our proximity to Spokane." Sites within canyons or valleys often have reduced coverage.
Site privacy varies widely: Campgrounds differ significantly in spacing between sites. Annika W. notes about Liberty Lake Regional Park, "I stayed in the tent part of the campground, and the sites (especially the first few) are awfully close. This is a great campground for camping with friends but I don't recommend it for a quiet getaway."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Several campgrounds offer safe water access for children. At Riverside State Park, 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."
Playgrounds and recreational facilities: Northern Quest RV Resort provides family-oriented amenities beyond natural features. Wes W. points out, "Nice RV park with Wi-Fi and Pool. Spacious lots with grass and asphalt pads." These facilities offer entertainment options during downtime.
Insect preparation: Some campgrounds have seasonal insect issues. At Dragoon Creek Campground, Serena G. advises, "The only downside here would have to be the number of wasps throughout the grounds. Wasp traps would be a nice investment but when you're outside you have to be prepared." Another camper called it "infested with bees," highlighting the importance of proper insect protection.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness considerations: RV campers should check site conditions before setting up. At Nine Mile Recreation Area, Aaron P. notes, "The RV/camper sites have full or partial hook-ups. All back in." Many reviewers mention bringing leveling blocks for sites throughout the region.
Reservation timing for summer months: During peak season, reservations become essential. Joel R. advises about Liberty Lake Regional Park, "We did not have reservations beforehand and got the last space available on a Monday. Advise reservations." Weekends from June through August typically fill weeks in advance.
Winter hookup preparation: Year-round RV parks often require special consideration for water connections. Brown Sign Junkies notes about Liberty Lake RV Campground, "There is also a $100 deposit on the heat tape during winter on the spigot. If you don't want to pay it then you have to call them to unlock the water to fill your tank."
