Riverside State Park Equestrian Campground offers dedicated equestrian camping near Medical Lake, Washington, with individual corrals for horses and direct access to an extensive trail system. Located within a 20-minute drive from Medical Lake, this specialized facility maintains a designated area for horse owners with several amenities including electric hookups and drinking water. The campground features both primary camping areas and overflow spaces for larger groups with horses.
What to do
Trail riding access: The equestrian campground connects to miles of trails along the Spokane River. According to one visitor at Riverside State Park Equestrian Campground, "This area accesses many miles of hiking/biking/horseback trails along the scenic Spokane River, but the campground itself is reserved for equestrians."
Training facilities: Riders can practice in the arena, round pen, and training course located near the main camping area. A camper notes, "This place is such a well put together establishment, it has the most beautiful breath taking sceneries. It also seems like the perfect atmosphere to reallly beable to bond with your horse, so you both can be comfortable while being train together."
Swimming spots: When not riding, campers can visit nearby swimming areas. At Liberty Lake Regional Park, a visitor mentioned, "There is a clean shower/bathroom building and a beach within walking distance of the campground."
What campers like
Dedicated horse-first environment: The campground prioritizes equestrian needs. A camper stated, "Beautiful horse campground with tons of riding trials, and arena, round pen and obstacle course."
Wildlife viewing: Many visitors appreciate the natural setting and wildlife sightings. At Liberty Lake Regional Park, one camper observed, "There were deer in the campground every day, we saw moose, owls, pilated woodpecker, and hawks."
Proximity to home: Local horse owners value having dedicated facilities nearby. One Bowl and Pitcher Campground visitor commented, "We actually live right down the road from this park and now a days, hike here regularly. But back in the day, we camped here a few times when a big vacation was not an option."
What you should know
Horse requirement: The equestrian campground only permits camping with horses. A reviewer clearly stated, "Must have horses to camp here."
Seasonal considerations: Some nearby parks have limited operating seasons. At Liberty Lake Regional Park, campers should note the season runs "May 17 to Sept 15."
Limited privacy: Many campgrounds in the region have open sites. One camper at Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park noted, "We loved how large the sites and overall area was, so we could back our rig in easily (40ft long x 13.5ft tall.) There were a lot of open sites, even during the holiday weekend."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Several nearby campgrounds offer swimming opportunities for children. A camper at Bowl and Pitcher Campground mentioned, "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."
Playground access: Some parks feature play areas for children. As noted about Liberty Lake Regional Park, "This is a nice site that is know for its hiking trail. It is also close to play structure and small beach."
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