Dispersed camping options exist in forested areas surrounding Nine Mile Falls, Washington, situated at approximately 1,700 feet elevation within the eastern foothills of the Cascade Mountains. Summer temperatures range from 60-90°F while winter conditions regularly drop below freezing with snow accumulation, limiting access to unpaved camping areas from November through April.
What to do
Kayaking and paddleboarding on Long Lake: At Nine Mile Recreation Area — Riverside State Park, visitors can rent equipment onsite. "You can rent kayaks, and paddle boards there," notes a visitor who appreciated the water-based activities available directly from the campground.
Hiking through wildflower meadows: The forest trails near Amongst The Pines offer seasonal wildflower viewing. "We got there early and were able to check out the nearby brewery/fruit picking spot which made for a pretty ideal road tripping night," shares one camper who enjoyed the diverse activities available.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The remote location of Twin Lakes provides excellent wildlife observation. "This is a gorgeous camping area," notes one visitor who appreciated the natural setting, adding that limited cell reception enhances the wilderness experience.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many campers appreciate the direct water access at Mica Bay Boater Park Camping. "Great camping spot for families or anyone! Swing sets and slide for youngsters, horseshoe pit (when camp host is present), for older kids, large grass field for frisbee or football, big long docks for fishing or sunbathing," writes one enthusiastic visitor.
Privacy between sites: The spacious layout at Skookum Creek Campground receives consistent praise. "Nice spots spaced quite far apart. Grassy with fire rings and tables," notes one camper who valued the separation between camping areas.
Quiet atmosphere: The seclusion at tent campsites near Nine Mile Falls attracts those seeking peace. A visitor to Extraordinary Camping mentioned it's "a very nice place to camp, since there probably won't be any people outside your own group."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many tent campsites near Nine Mile Falls operate on limited schedules. Nine Mile Recreation Area typically operates May through September only, with no winter access.
Varying road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires careful driving. A camper at Rogers Bar notes: "You do need to use the Gifford Ferry if you want to come up on the east side of the river but there is a road as far down as Fort Spokane area (a bit longer of a drive from Spokane) but this avoids the Ferry."
Limited facilities: True primitive camping opportunities exist but require preparation. "If you want true primitive camping, this is it. There is a vault toilet but that is it. There is no water so bring your own," advises a Rogers Bar visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Check for kid-friendly amenities: Some locations specifically cater to families with children. At Mica Bay, facilities include "Swing sets and slide for youngsters... large grass field for frisbee or football."
Consider shade availability: Summer heat affects camping comfort. A Twin Lakes visitor noted: "The campsite is fairly nice, although there is no shade. The pictures that are uploaded must be from a long time ago."
Look for educational opportunities: Several tent camping areas near Nine Mile Falls provide nature learning experiences. A family visiting Camp Gifford described it as an "Inclusive children's camp" with programming for younger visitors.
Tips from RVers
Road access limitations: Large rigs face challenges at several campgrounds. A visitor to Twin Lakes warns: "The road that leads down to the lake/camping area is steep and winding. I would not suggest anything over 25 foot length try to go down because you may not get back up."
Alternative locations for larger vehicles: When primary sites won't accommodate RVs, look for nearby options. "There is a second site about 22 minutes away (coffee pot recreation site) that is more accessible friendly for larger rigs and setups and a boat launch to the lower lake," advises an RV camper at Twin Lakes.
Limited hookup availability: Most tent campsites near Nine Mile Falls offer few amenities for RVs. Several sites like 5 Authentic Barn Campsites technically accept RVs but provide minimal services and primarily cater to tent campers.
