Riverside State Park serves as a central hub for pet friendly camping near Mead, Washington. This 14,000-acre park features basalt rock formations, pine forests, and the Spokane River with multiple camping areas. Located about 10 miles from Mead, campers can access hiking trails, fishing spots, and wildlife viewing throughout the year, though summer offers the most comfortable temperatures with daytime highs around 80°F.
What to do
Hiking trails with river views: At Riverside State Park, numerous trails follow the Spokane River, including the popular suspension bridge at Bowl and Pitcher. "Lots of hiking trails and wildlife viewing. The swinging bridge is awesome. Popular area. The bathrooms are nice, the river is beautiful," notes Andrea R.
Water activities on the Spokane River: The river provides options for swimming, fishing, and kayaking during summer months. At Nine Mile Recreation Area, there's direct lake access. "You're right off the water and get an amazing view of the sunset. There's a nearby walking path through the woods that was covered in wildflowers," writes Taesagh M.
Trail riding for equestrians: Dedicated facilities for horse owners make Riverside State Park Equestrian Campground ideal for riders. "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," explains Gary M.
What campers like
Clean facilities close to town: Many campgrounds near Mead maintain well-kept restrooms and showers despite their proximity to urban areas. "Standard State Park facilities set near downtown Spokane in a beautiful river gorge. You don't feel close to the city at all here with plenty of space to hike and bike," shares Kimberly R. about Riverside State Park.
Dog-friendly environments: Pet owners appreciate the accommodations for four-legged campers at Liberty Lake Regional Park. "The dogs loved it too. There are 2 different camp areas. If you're looking for more peace and quiet, or want to toss a fishing line in, try to book in the lower section," advises Kimberly R.
Creek access at smaller campgrounds: Dragoon Creek Campground offers a more secluded experience with water access. "There's a small creek that runs through the campgrounds. Not great for swimming (very shallow) but luckily there are many swimming spots locally that you can visit instead," notes Serena G.
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "Sign on the closed/locked gate says it's open from Memorial Day to Labor Day," reports Vern H. about Dragoon Creek Campground, while Liberty Lake Regional Park typically runs from mid-May through mid-September.
Train noise at some locations: Several campgrounds near Mead experience railroad disruptions. At Spokane KOA Journey, campers should prepare for noise. "The trains can sometimes be annoying but fairly quiet at night, it hadn't been that bothersome. With everyone having slide outs now it makes the sites close, so no fire pits in the general camping area," explains Suzanne B.
Traveler
