Riverside State Park and nearby recreation areas provide camping options near Medical Lake, Washington, with elevations ranging from 1,700 to 2,300 feet. The camping season typically runs May through September, though some sites remain open year-round. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing while summer days often reach 85-90°F with cooler evenings.
What to do
Hiking trails at Bowl and Pitcher: Explore the extensive trail network at Bowl and Pitcher Campground — Riverside State Park where you can walk across the suspension bridge and access numerous routes. "The campground has partial hook ups and is very camper friendly otherwise... 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.
Lake activities near Cheney: Spend time on the water at Clear Lake Recreation Area which offers equipment rentals for water recreation. "Boat, kayak and other equipment rentals, restaurant, bathrooms, changing rooms, showers, fishing dock, swimming area, shaded lawns and picnic tables," reports Michelle R., highlighting the comprehensive amenities for water enthusiasts.
Wildlife viewing at Coffeepot Lake: Visit this quieter destination for bird watching and natural encounters. "Extremely active wildlife. Dozens of kinds of birds and bats. Neat big bugs. We woke up to a flock of pelicans. At night, coyotes howling in ALL directions and raccoons rustling all around by the water," describes Mint T., pointing to the diverse ecosystem.
What campers like
Proximity to urban amenities: Many campers appreciate that Liberty Lake Regional Park balances natural surroundings with convenient access to services. "It is very close to Spokane and has beautiful hiking trails, a beach where you can swim and kayak and canoe and fish, birds and wildlife around singing beautifully day and night," says Steve M.
Military-specific glamping options: Service members seeking glamping in Medical Lake, Washington appreciate the dedicated facilities. "Military ID required. Sites 1-15 have zero shade and are close together. Dogs are not allowed on the beach or lake areas," notes Jennifer B., providing important restrictions for those planning a luxury outdoor stay.
Secluded waterfront locations: For those seeking quieter glamping near Medical Lake, some campgrounds offer more privacy. "This is a smaller campground great for RV, trailers and tents. The sites are enclosed in a circle, making a nice walk or bike ride... Sites are pretty open not offering a good amount of privacy, though most are along the Spokane River," explains Mary C.
What you should know
Military ID requirements: Access to certain recreation areas requires proper credentials. "This is a military recreation center, it is open to active and retired military and their families. It has several camping sites, a boat launch, a fishing dock, picnic areas, and a snack bar. There are also cabins available but usually require reservations far in advance," explains Jim T.
Seasonal considerations: Water levels can affect camping experiences at places like Hawk Creek Campground. "The waterfall was about 30-40' high and emerged from a rock crevice... I believe now that this federal campground is by reservation only as are the others in the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area," reports Judy T.
Insect issues: Be prepared for seasonal insect activity. "Everyone at the camp ground was constantly being attacked by yellow jackets, being stung multiple times. The bathroom toilets had no cover so the bugs were bad. Other than that everything about the place was beautiful and fun," warns Geoff B.
Tips for camping with families
Beach and playground access: Families enjoy the amenities at Porcupine Bay Campground. "My family has been going to this campground and area since before I was born. There's a designated swimming area for kids, a dock, and a playground. Definitely a busy spot mid summer season, but good for the whole family," shares Natasha S.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy the abundant wildlife. "The turtles swimming around the dock. Lots of wildlife," mentions Michelle R., highlighting natural attractions that keep kids engaged.
Safety considerations: Some areas offer more secure environments for families. "A beautiful spot for family camp outs. Lots of room for kids to play safely. Warm welcoming locals. Warm relaxing water. Great for fishing, sun bathing, hanging out around the fire under a whole universe of stars," reports Justice K.
Tips from RVers
Site size and access: RV campers should note varying site dimensions across glamping facilities near Medical Lake. "Bowl and Pitcher campground has several partial-hookup sites with electricity and water, and several with no hook ups. There is a dump station, and two restrooms both with showers. The largest site length is 45 feet, so large RVs won't fit," advises Joel R.
Hookup availability: While some locations offer full services, others have limitations. "Sites one through 18 are on the river and much more spacious and have full utilities. We enjoyed the beauty of the Spokane River, walking across the suspension bridge and hiking the trails," shares Lisa K.
Level challenges: Prepare for potential leveling issues at some locations. "They are close together! We stayed at 2 different sites over 3 weeks, and both were level. They provide a fire pit if you want one. Picnic table, water and electric. The dump station is quite a drive, back out, up the hill," notes Joel R.
