Dispersed camping opportunities exist within an hour's drive of Nine Mile Falls in eastern Washington, where the landscape features channeled scablands carved by ancient floods. Free camping near Nine Mile Falls includes sites at various elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 feet across Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and National Forest lands. Camping conditions vary significantly by season with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while spring brings muddy access roads and occasional flash flooding near creeks.
What to do
Fishing at Potters Pond: Little Pend Orielle Campground provides access to stocked fishing areas perfect for families. "There is a family friendly fishing dock on Potters pond, and it is stocked with good sized rainbow trout the little kids had a blast fishing. A little further down was Bayley Lake which is fly fishing only and not as easy to access," shares a camper who visited Little Pend Orielle Campground.
Hiking on established trails: Fishtrap Recreation Area offers trails connecting to the camping areas. "There is a really nice hiking trail behind it. Worth a stop, but not for long term camping," notes one visitor to Fishtrap Recreation Area. The trails range from easy 1-mile loops to more challenging 5-mile routes.
Water activities: Several camping areas provide water access for kayaking, swimming, or wading. "The water was warm and we swam all day. Bats at night, and the stars!! Excellent camping experience," reports a camper at Cooks Lake. During summer months, creek water temperatures can reach the mid-70s, making them comfortable for wading.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. "We experience wild turkeys, a variety of birds, the sound of coyotes not far, field squirrels and snakes," mentions a camper at Fishtrap Recreation Area. The best viewing times are within an hour of sunrise and sunset.
What campers like
Seclusion and privacy: Many dispersed sites provide separation from neighboring campers. "The spots we saw were all quite large and they are very spread out from each other," notes a camper at Little Pend Orielle Campground. Sites at this location are typically 100-200 feet apart, providing natural sound barriers.
Natural water features: Creeks, lakes and ponds enhance the camping experience. "There was also a creek running behind the spot we chose which was a treat for the dogs to drink from," shares another Little Pend Orielle visitor. Most creek-side sites are within 50 feet of water access.
Night sky viewing: Areas away from city lights provide excellent stargazing. "The early mornings on the lake were worth it. The mist rising and the vast, green mountains, right in front of you," describes a camper at Cooks Lake. Light pollution is minimal at sites more than 20 miles from Spokane.
No-cost camping options: Free camping near Nine Mile Falls attracts budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts. "Nice open blm area, rustic campsites. There's an established trail that goes to hog lake and the boat launch area which is only accessible on foot when we were camping," explains a visitor to Hog Lake Campground.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Seasonal bans often apply during summer months. "Can stay up to 14 days," notes a Hog Lake camper, adding important context about length-of-stay limits that apply to most BLM areas in the region.
Road conditions: Access roads vary from maintained gravel to rough dirt tracks. "The road to get there was approx six miles of gravel winding single lane road. But so worth the drive for the beautiful shaded sites and the open Lakeview sites," explains a visitor to Cooks Lake. Many access roads require careful driving at speeds under 15 mph.
Toilet facilities: When available, vault toilets may have varying conditions. "There is a vault toilet that was disgusting, beware," warns a Cooks Lake camper. At North Fork Chewelah Creek, one visitor noted, "There is also a vault toilet - very clean - in this area."
Wildlife encounters: Local wildlife includes various species campers should be prepared to encounter. "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," advises a Hog Lake camper. Snake activity increases when temperatures exceed 75°F.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots: Some locations offer family-friendly water access. "The creek is very small but powerful. You can not swim but still a great place to get wet. If you have a tube bring it and enjoy a short river ride," suggests a camper at North Fork Chewelah Creek.
Level campsites: Look for areas with flat terrain for easier tent setup. "A nice location! I will advise tent campers it is tent accessible but not the easiest spot in a tent. The soil is very dry and a couple of the spots were hard rocks and not accessible for tents," cautions a visitor to Fishtrap Recreation Area.
Bug preparedness: Insects vary by location and season. "Lots of mosquitoes though!" warns a camper at Hog Lake Campground. Mosquito activity typically peaks during June and early July, especially near standing water.
Safety concerns: Some areas may present specific hazards for children. "Beware of mud! Neat little spot that worked good for a last minute place to camp. Was headed from Montana and got up there right at dark. Decided to drive down to the water (that was hardly there) and found myself barely on the edge of lake bottom mud. Didn't get out till the next morning," shares a Cooks Lake visitor.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs and trailers only. "We have a 21ft trailer towed behind a pickup truck and it's able to fit in most spots. None of these are really official spots (not flattened or bordered) but it's a nice place to pass through," explains a Hog Lake camper.
Site selection: Look for level, established pull-offs. "At least 2 of them are good for my trailer although I wouldn't try if you're not experienced with towing," advises a visitor to Cooks Lake. Most suitable RV sites are within the first quarter-mile of access roads.
Train noise: At some locations, nearby railroad tracks create periodic noise. "There are train tracks that parallel the highway, so the further you go down the gravel road, the further you'll be from the train noise. Even if you're closer to the entrance, it's not too bad," shares a Hog Lake visitor.
