Camping cabins near St. John, Washington provide access to the channeled scablands region formed by ancient ice-age floods. The area's semi-arid climate features hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cold winters that can drop below freezing. Most cabin accommodations remain open year-round, though winter access may require additional preparation due to occasional snow and ice conditions.
What to do
Hiking trails at Liberty Lake: Liberty Lake Regional Park offers extensive trail networks with varying difficulty levels. "There is a nice site that is known for its hiking trail. It is also close to play structure and small beach," notes one visitor. The park maintains several miles of trails suitable for day hikes.
Water recreation at Boyer Park: Located along the Snake River, Boyer Park & Marina KOA provides multiple water-based activities. A visitor mentioned, "This is a great site with all the amenities. It provides a boat launch and nice sized RV lots. It is kid friendly and is a 2 minute drive from Lower Granite Dam if you want to take a tour." Boat rentals are available seasonally.
Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes: Hawleys Landing Campground provides direct access to this renowned bike path. "The Trail of the Coeur D'Alene runs through this campground. Biking the 7 mile ride to Harrison is a great way to spend the day, you cross the lake over a bridge, watching eagles swoop over the lake as you ride," shares one camper. Bike rentals available at nearby towns during summer months.
What campers like
Lake access for swimming: Liberty Lake Regional Park offers designated swimming areas with gradual entry points. A visitor notes, "There is a clean shower/bathroom building and a beach within walking distance of the campground." The swimming area remains open from late May through early September, weather permitting.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campers appreciate the natural habitat surrounding cabin sites. One reviewer at Liberty Lake Regional Park observed, "Several hiking trails, including an equestrian trail, waterfall, fishing and lots of wildlife. There were deer in the campground every day, we saw moose, owls, pilated woodpecker, and hawks." Dawn and dusk offer optimal wildlife viewing times.
Fishing access: Multiple locations provide fishing opportunities. At Ruby's Resort, a camper shared, "Great spot for fishing and playing with the kids. We stayed on the premium lake view site which was solid and away from much of the other campers so it felt private." Washington fishing license required for anglers 15 and older.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance booking, especially during peak season. At Spokane KOA Journey, a visitor mentioned, "There seemed to be a large contingent of other travelers as many left early in the morning. There were also a fair number of tent campers at this facility." Reservations typically open 6-12 months in advance.
Train noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience railroad activity. "This KOA is surrounded by residences and businesses, and also right next to very active train tracks. The trains have been quite frequent day and night," warns one Spokane KOA Journey visitor. Noise-sensitive campers should request cabins furthest from tracks when available.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly across the region. A camper at Riverside State Park noted, "This is a perfect getaway for people looking to unplug as no cell service (tested on sprint, verizon, and google fi) is available." Consider downloading offline maps before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Beach facilities: Hawleys Landing Campground offers family-friendly water access. "Great place to swim, kayak, bike, and go bird watching. There are usually other visitors (especially boats on the water) but it never gets too hectic!" reports one visitor. The beach area includes shallow entry points suitable for younger children.
Playground access: Several cabin locations maintain play structures. A visitor to Clear Lake Recreation Area mentioned, "Military site with everything you could possibly need—tent, RV, and tiny cabins. Access to water and excellent for some good old fashioned family fun." Most playground equipment designed for children ages 5-12.
Water safety considerations: Lakes in the region require standard water safety precautions. At Ruby's Resort, one camper reported, "Came here with another family for a few days during the 4th! Took the boat too. Great spot for fishing and playing with the kids." Life jacket use recommended for all water activities, especially for children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Northern Quest: Northern Quest RV Resort offers concrete pads with varying orientations. A visitor noted, "For a suburban park this is gorgeous, clean, well maintained and welcoming. Not much of a camping experience but superb for what it is and the perfect place to rest on a night in transit!" Sites 1-15 generally quieter than others.
Space considerations at Ruby's Resort: Some locations have tight spacing between units. "Beautiful views, calm, and quiet area. My only complaint is how tight the campground is. Definitely not made for big rigs or 40'. Smaller campers only," cautions a visitor. RVs over 30 feet may experience access difficulties at certain sites.
Hookup limitations: Utilities vary between locations. At Bowl and Pitcher Campground, a camper observed, "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." Most locations offer at minimum 30-amp service.
