Best Dispersed Camping near Spokane Valley, WA
Dispersed camping near Spokane Valley includes several BLM-managed areas where primitive camping is permitted without fees. Hog Lake Campground, approximately 30 minutes from Spokane, offers free dispersed sites accessible via gravel roads off I-90. Fishtrap Recreation Area near Sprague provides additional no-cost camping options with basic vault toilets but no other amenities. For those willing to travel farther, primitive camping is available at Bonnie Lake Island, a boat-in only site requiring paddling up Rock Creek and across the lake. These areas feature undeveloped natural settings on public land where campers can stay for extended periods.
Access to these dispersed sites typically requires navigating unpaved roads that can be challenging for some vehicles. Many sites at Hog Lake are accessible to standard passenger vehicles, though some locations may require careful maneuvering around drainage ditches and uneven terrain. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing more remote spots. Camping is generally permitted for up to 14 days in most BLM areas. None of these sites offer drinking water, electric hookups, or trash service. Pack-in, pack-out principles apply at all locations. Road conditions can deteriorate after rain, and seasonal closures may affect lake access points.
These primitive camping areas feature open landscapes typical of Eastern Washington with opportunities for wildlife viewing and stargazing. According to one visitor, "Hog Lake has many great sites equipped with fire rings. We had a 30ft RV and drove in on the nice gravel road." While most sites offer privacy due to their spacing, noise can occasionally be an issue. Another camper noted, "Depending on where you are in the camp you will hear a train come by every couple hours. Around 2:00 a.m. every morning the coyotes have a 2-3 minute party." Some areas experience high winds, and the terrain is predominantly dusty and rocky. Visitors report that despite being primitive, the areas are generally well-maintained with minimal trash. For those seeking water recreation, Hog Lake and Bonnie Lake provide fishing and paddling opportunities, though swimming is limited due to water conditions.
