Riverside State Park Equestrian Campground sits on the western edge of Spokane near Marshall, Washington, at approximately 1,800 feet elevation. This dedicated equestrian camping facility provides specialized accommodations with corrals and access to an extensive trail network through the park's 14,000 acres along the Spokane River. The campground operates year-round, though the best riding conditions typically occur from April through October when trails are dry and maintained.
What to do
Trail riding: The equestrian campground connects directly to miles of horse-friendly paths throughout Riverside State Park. As one visitor notes, "This area accesses many miles of hiking/biking/horseback trails along the scenic Spokane River, but the campground itself is reserved for equestrians."
Horse training facilities: At Riverside State Park Equestrian Campground, riders can utilize dedicated training areas a short distance from the main camping area. "There is also an arena, round pen, and trail training course a quarter mile up the road from the campground," explains one regular visitor.
Swimming access: When not riding, campers can cool off at Liberty Lake Regional Park, about 30 miles east. "It has paved/gravel roads. It is surrounded by a heavily wooded area that is very beautiful and well kept up," notes one camper, with another adding it "has a beach where you can swim and kayak and canoe and fish."
Hiking: The Bowl and Pitcher Campground at Riverside State Park offers alternative camping with excellent hiking opportunities. "This is a larger campground great for RV, trailers and tents. Lots of wildlife and lots of trails and riverbank to explore," explains one visitor.
What campers like
Arena access: Equestrian campers particularly value the horse-specific amenities. "Beautiful horse campground with tons of riding trials, and arena, round pen and obstacle course," shares one equestrian who gave the facility a 5-star rating.
Convenience to Spokane: Located just 20 minutes from Spokane, the Liberty Lake Regional Park campground provides a similar convenient basecamp. "We spent 3 weeks at Liberty Lake Regional Park while visiting our son and grandkids in Spokane. The road in is a little narrow, but once in, it's a great little campground."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting around Marshall supports diverse wildlife. At Liberty Lake, campers report seeing "deer in the campground every day, we saw moose, owls, pilated woodpecker, and hawks."
Peaceful atmosphere: Despite proximity to urban areas, equestrian camping near Marshall provides a sense of solitude. Even local riders note they "frequently camp there just for fun" despite living nearby, highlighting the recreational value beyond just overnight accommodations.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: The equestrian campground requires advance reservations, especially during summer months when the facility often reaches capacity on weekends.
Water and electricity: While the equestrian area offers basic amenities, infrastructure is limited compared to standard campgrounds. "The campground features horse corrals, picnic tables, drinking water, and electric hookups for equestrian campers," according to facility descriptions.
Generator use permitted: Unlike some camping areas, Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park across the border in Idaho offers more extensive hookups if needed. "The sites are all pretty level with the parking areas paved. Most of the sites are full hookup with 30 and 50 amp electric. Water and sewer dump."
Seasonal considerations: Spring conditions can be muddy on trails, while summer brings higher temperatures. One nearby camper notes, "It can get pretty noisy in this area depending on the time of year that you go, but that's what you expect with a city parking spot with festivities around."
Tips for camping with families
Safety features: For families with mixed riding abilities, the training areas provide controlled environments. "This place is such a well put together establishment... It also seems like the perfect atmosphere to really be able to bond with your horse," notes a visitor to the equestrian campground.
Alternative accommodations: Families without horses can enjoy the Bowl and Pitcher area, where "there is a nice cement slab just in the water so it makes a safe place for kids."
No cell service: Parents should note connectivity limitations. At Bowl and Pitcher, one camper mentions, "This is a perfect getaway for people looking to unplug as no cell service (tested on sprint, verizon, and google fi) is available."
Weather preparation: Summer temperatures can reach 90°F or higher, requiring appropriate sun protection and hydration plans for both humans and horses.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: While the equestrian campground accommodates RVs, larger rigs may find access challenging on some of the park roads.
Hookup options: RVers seeking full hookups might consider Ruby's Resort near Medical Lake as an alternative. "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."
Dump station location: The nearest dump stations are located at the main Riverside State Park campground areas, not at the equestrian facility itself.
Generator hours: While generators are permitted at the equestrian campground, courtesy hours typically restrict use to between 8am and 8pm.
