Glamping destinations near St. John, Washington provide direct access to the Snake River basin with elevations averaging 1,500 feet. The rolling Palouse landscape creates natural windbreaks at some sites, while summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F. Winter visitors should note that overnight temperatures can drop below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Water activities at Clear Lake: Clear Lake Recreation Area offers equipment rentals through their office including kayaks and paddleboards. "Clear Lake Recreation Area is amazing! The scenery is beautiful, and there are plenty of activities for everyone," notes visitor Manisha S. The area includes a fishing dock, swimming area, and shaded lawns for picnicking.
Hiking at Riverside State Park: The Bowl and Pitcher Campground features numerous trails along the Spokane River with varying difficulty levels. "This is a larger campground great for RV, trailers and tents. The sites are enclosed in a circle, making a nice walk or bike ride," according to Mary C. The suspension bridge offers excellent river views and connects to additional hiking paths.
Biking at Heyburn State Park: Access the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes directly from Chatcolet Campground. "We picked this campground for its access to the Trail of the Coeur D'Alenes. The campground is small and peaceful, at least mid week," writes Annie B. The trail system provides miles of paved paths suitable for casual riders and serious cyclists.
What campers like
Privacy options: Liberty Lake Regional Park offers sites with natural screening. "The campground is close to the water and lots of picnic areas. The RV spots are pretty close, but is surrounded by nature and trails," reports Theresa G. Despite being near Spokane, the park feels secluded with multiple hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Clean facilities: Lyons Ferry Marina KOA maintains well-kept grounds near the Snake River. "The site is very quiet, the crew is very friendly, and the camp is very clean. The Snake River is a few feet away, and the grass is soft and green," mentions Cinco D. The KOA store stocks essentials for campers who forgot supplies.
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. "We were there over July 4th weekend and they had a fireworks display on the beach. While we were there the campground hosts did a fantastic job of keeping everything clean and tidy. 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," notes Joel R. about Liberty Lake Regional Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping options require advance booking, especially during summer months. "Only downside is no Verizon coverage and free wifi is junk. But for $3/day you can get decent wifi. Quiet during the weekdays. Gets REALLY busy on weekends. A lot of families with a lot of kids," reports Mary F. about Boyer Park & Marina KOA.
Cell service limitations: Several campgrounds have limited connectivity. "This is a perfect getaway for people looking to unplug as no cell service (tested on sprint, verizon, and google fi) is available," writes Mary C. about Riverside State Park. Consider downloading offline maps before arrival.
Weather considerations: Summer heat can be intense in eastern Washington. "It was very hot here in July with no wind," notes Adam B. about camping at Liberty Lake. Evening temperatures can drop significantly, requiring both cooling and warming options.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several glamping sites include play areas for children. "This site was very well maintained, and very highly trafficked in the summer. Access to water and excellent for some good old fashioned family fun," reports Rachel A. about Clear Lake Military.
Swimming options: Beach areas offer safe places for children to cool off. "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," says Arica C. about Riverside State Park.
Spacing considerations: Some campgrounds offer more room between sites than others. "The campground is super clean, flushable toilets, metal picnic tables, fire rings all in good shape. Spots are fairly close so you can see your neighbors but there are trees and brush which helps. Frequented by young families so don't be annoyed by kids having a good time on their bikes or playing," advises Kathy B. about Chatcolet Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "Bring your blocks. Nice cozy camp site. Can be a bit crowded but is nice here. Cell service is solid att and Verizon," suggests Adam B. regarding sites at Liberty Lake Regional Park.
Hookup availability: Services vary significantly between glamping locations. "We camped on one of the first weekends they were open. Really love the walks and store, clean bathroom. Cool dog park with shade," notes Paul M. about camping at Boyer Park Marina.
Access considerations: Some access roads present challenges for larger rigs. "The road in is a little narrow, but once in, it's a great little campground. Most of the sites are fairly level. We stayed at 2 different sites over 3 weeks, and both were level," explains Joel R. about navigating to Liberty Lake Regional Park.
