Riverside State Park sits near Marshall, Washington at approximately 1,800 feet elevation. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through August, while winter lows often drop below freezing. Camping options range from established campgrounds with full hookups to primitive sites along the Spokane River with variable seasonal access between April and October.
What to do
Hiking the suspension bridge: At Bowl and Pitcher Campground — Riverside State Park, the iconic suspension bridge serves as the starting point for multiple trail systems. "My favorite thing was the suspension bridge over the river. Lots of space for swimming and fishing!" notes Mary C., who appreciates the riverside location.
Wildlife viewing at dawn: Early morning offers optimal wildlife spotting at Hog Lake Campground where deer are frequently seen at water access points. One camper reports, "We got in around 10:30pm with our campervan and while most places were taken up, we thought we got lucky with the one closest to the lake... Only to wake up to see a tent there in the morning. Beautiful view of the lake!"
Horse riding facilities: Equestrian campers have dedicated facilities at Riverside State Park Equestrian Campground including arena access and trail course training areas. Gary M. shares, "This area accesses many miles of hiking/biking/horseback trails along the scenic Spokane River, but the campground itself is reserved for equestrians. There is also an arena, round pen, and trail training course a quarter mile up the road from the campground."
What campers like
Spacious grassy sites: Willow Creek Retreat offers seven generously sized grassy camping spots with ample room between sites. "Just gorgeous. I loved it here as did my fiancé- being out in a beautiful open space but nestled under a willow tree, sites are nicely spaced out," reports Nora H.
Free shuttle service: At Northern Quest RV Resort, campers appreciate the complimentary transportation to nearby attractions. "They have a free shuttle to the casino that runs until Midnight. We went to the casino for supper," notes Chris D., who found the service convenient during their stay.
Clean facilities with showers: Liberty Lake Regional Park maintains well-kept bathroom and shower facilities despite high seasonal usage. Joel R. describes, "There is a clean shower/bathroom building and a beach within walking distance of the campground. While we were there the campground hosts did a fantastic job of keeping everything clean and tidy."
What you should know
Train noise impacts sleep: Multiple campgrounds in the Marshall area experience railroad noise, with Spokane KOA Journey particularly affected due to its proximity to active tracks. "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 tent camping," advises Cinco D.
Cell service variability: Despite proximity to Spokane, mobile coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. At Riverside State Park, Mary C. reports, "This is a perfect getaway for people looking to unplug as no cell service (tested on sprint, verizon, and google fi) is available."
Seasonal gate closures: Access restrictions apply at certain times of year, particularly at dispersed camping areas. At Hog Lake Campground, Kara H. notes "The lake access (with the toilet) is not open, gate is locked" during certain periods, though camping remains available.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple pet-friendly options: Dog friendly campgrounds near Marshall cater to families traveling with pets through designated exercise areas and waste stations. One visitor to Liberty Lake Regional Park shares, "We were there over July 4th weekend and they had a fireworks display on the beach" making it a festive option for family groups with pets.
Swimming access points: Several campgrounds offer water access suitable for supervised children. At Riverside State Park, Arica C. mentions, "We love how calm the river is and the convenience of bringing our dogs. There is a nice cement slab just in the water so it makes a safe place for kids."
Wildlife education opportunities: Families can observe various wildlife while maintaining appropriate distance. Hog Lake visitors note rattlesnake presence on trails, with one camper advising, "Saw a rattlesnake on the trail but we kept our distance and he went on his way. Be kind to the animals, it's their home."
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing matters: Several Marshall area pet-friendly campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak season. "We did not have reservations beforehand and got the last space available on a Monday. Advise reservations," suggests Lisa K. about Riverside State Park, highlighting the need for advance planning.
Site selection strategy: RVers should target specific areas within larger campgrounds for optimal experience. At Riverside State Park, Lisa K. advises, "Sites one through 18 are on the river and much more spacious and have full utilities," while noting upper loop sites are less desirable due to being "a little tight."
Level site availability: Various campgrounds offer concrete pads and leveling options for RVs of different sizes. Northern Quest RV Resort receives particular praise with one visitor noting, "Nice park with concrete sites available" and another commenting, "Spacious lots with grass and asphalt pads. Easy to get around."
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