Riverside State Park spans 14,000 acres along the Spokane River, just minutes from downtown Spokane and 15 miles from Nine Mile Falls. The park features basalt rock formations, pine forests, and over 55 miles of trails at elevations ranging from 1,700 to 2,100 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F, while spring and fall camping sees cooler nights around 40-50°F.
What to do
Hiking trails exploration: At Riverside State Park, visitors can access numerous trail options ranging from easy riverside paths to moderate climbs. "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. The park features both paved and natural surface trails suitable for all ability levels.
Water recreation: Porcupine Bay Campground offers direct lake access with designated swimming areas perfect for cooling off during summer months. "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. Lots of boats of the lake, good for water skiing or wakeboarding," shares Natasha S. The sandy beach areas provide space for relaxation and play.
Wildlife viewing: Numerous campers report regular wildlife sightings, particularly at dawn and dusk. "We saw deer in the campground every day, we saw moose, owls, pilated woodpecker, and hawks," mentions Joel R. Early mornings provide the best opportunity for wildlife photography and observation, especially along quieter trails and waterways.
What campers like
Proximity to urban conveniences: Located just minutes from Spokane, camping at Liberty Lake Regional Park provides a natural setting with easy access to city amenities. "It is very close to Spokane but is nestled in such a way that you would not realize the city is there," explains Terrie M. This accessibility makes these locations ideal for weekend getaways without extensive travel time.
Waterfall features: Several campgrounds in the region offer access to scenic waterfalls. At Hawk Creek Campground, "The waterfall was about 30-40' high and emerged from a rock crevice," describes Judy T. These natural water features create focal points for exploration and photography, with flow rates typically highest during spring months.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. "The sites have showers and flushing toilets!!" reports Mary C. Most established campgrounds in the area provide access to drinking water and restroom facilities, though amenities vary by location and season.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Lake Roosevelt and connected waterways experience significant water level fluctuations throughout the year. "When Grand Coulee starts letting the water down in Lake Roosevelt the Hawk Creek boat launch gets closed," warns Patrick R. Water levels are typically highest in early summer and lowest in late summer through fall, affecting boat launch access.
Campsite privacy varies: Many campgrounds in the Nine Mile Falls region feature relatively open sites with limited separation. "Sites are not shaded at all and very close together. Sites on the water are highly trafficked by other campers," notes Anthony D. about Porcupine Bay. Reservations for more secluded spots are recommended, especially during peak summer weekends.
Reservation requirements: Clear Lake Recreation Area and other popular glamping sites near Nine Mile Falls require advance planning. "Military ID required. Sites 1-15 have zero shade and are close together," advises Jennifer B. Most campgrounds in the region fill quickly during summer weekends, with reservations opening 6-9 months in advance depending on the facility.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access options: For families with young children, Pend Oreille County Park provides convenient water access points. "The sites are enclosed in a circle, making a nice walk or bike ride," explains Mary C. Beaches with gradual entry points and designated swimming areas provide safer options for families with small children.
Wildlife education opportunities: Many campgrounds offer junior ranger programs or wildlife viewing guides specifically designed for children. "This is a place that my family and I visit a lot. We love how calm the river is and the convenience of bringing dogs. There is a nice cement slab just in the water so it makes a safe place for kids," shares Arica C. Wildlife viewing is most productive during early morning or evening hours.
Off-peak visits: Families seeking quieter glamping experiences near Nine Mile Falls should consider weekday or shoulder season visits. "We spent 3 weeks at Liberty Lake Regional Park while visiting our son and grandkids in Spokane. While we were there the campground hosts did a fantastic job of keeping everything clean and tidy," notes Joel R. Weekday bookings typically offer greater site selection and reduced crowds.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: When reserving RV sites at Camp Coeur D'Alene, approximately 30 miles from Nine Mile Falls, consider specific pad requirements. "Our site worked great for our Sprinter van. Site is crowded for larger pull through but it appeared to work for the campers," advises Debbie S. Most RV sites in the region accommodate rigs up to 40 feet, with some locations offering larger pads for big rigs.
Electric hookup availability: Power options vary significantly across campgrounds. "Bowl and Pitcher campground has several partial-hookup sites with electricity and water, and several with no hook ups. The largest site length is 45 feet, so large RVs won't fit," explains Joel R. Many glamping sites near Nine Mile Falls offer at least partial hookups, with a limited number of full-service sites available at premium rates.
