Riverside State Park Equestrian Campground offers specialized facilities for equestrians in northwest Spokane Valley. The campground maintains clean, basic facilities and accommodates both tent camping and RVs without hookups. Campers can access miles of bridle trails directly from the campground, traversing varied terrain throughout Riverside State Park's extensive wilderness areas.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Riverside State Park Equestrian Campground provides exceptional access to riding trails with diverse terrain. According to one camper, it "has tons of riding trials, and arena, round pen and obstacle course." The campground serves as a central hub for accessing miles of equestrian-friendly paths.
Hiking around lakes: Take advantage of well-maintained trails surrounding local lakes. At Round Lake State Park Campground, "a very nice trail runs completely around the lake and nicely maintained." Another visitor mentions "an extensive set of trails heading up into the mountain behind the lake as well as a trail to a pond with a dam which is quite peaceful."
Fishing opportunities: Many campers enjoy fishing at area campgrounds. One visitor to Round Lake State Park reports: "I had a great time casting off from them [the docks] and even caught a couple of crappies and trout which was a nice bonus." Silver Lake offers additional fishing opportunities near Medical Lake.
What campers like
Large, level sites: Campers appreciate spacious sites at Liberty Lake Regional Park, where "the spots are very spacious and fairly quiet and clean." Another reviewer notes that "Most of the sites are fairly level. We stayed at 2 different sites over 3 weeks, and both were level."
Proximity to urban amenities: Many campgrounds provide quick access to nearby cities while feeling remote. Bowl and Pitcher Campground is "very close to the city, so you can eat out if you don't want to cook," yet one visitor notes it's "so close to town but it feels miles away."
Wildlife viewing: Campers frequently mention wildlife sightings. One Liberty Lake Regional Park visitor observed "deer in the campground every day, we saw moose, owls, pilated woodpecker, and hawks." The natural setting provides opportunities to see various animals in their habitat.
What you should know
Summer heat considerations: Some campgrounds lack shade coverage. At Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park, "there weren't shade trees but it is going to be a while for them to mature before they provide shade. 90+ degrees was brutal in this tar paved [area]." Bring portable shade structures during hot summer months.
Road noise factors: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise. A Round Lake State Park visitor mentions that "one downside was some road noise, which occasionally disrupted the peaceful atmosphere, especially in the evenings. It wasn't overwhelming, but it was noticeable enough to mention."
Reservation requirements: Many popular horse campgrounds near Spokane Valley, Washington fill quickly during peak season. One camper arrived at Bowl and Pitcher without reservations and "got the last space available on a Monday." Most parks recommend advance booking, especially for equestrian sites.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Breakwater Campground offers primitive camping along a tributary of the Coeur d'Alene river with "great tent camping and fly fishing." Liberty Lake Regional Park provides "a beach where you can swim and kayak and canoe and fish, birds and wildlife around singing beautifully day and night."
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds offer learning experiences for children. Round Lake has "a cool place for kids to learn about the wildlife in the area with foot prints in sand, bird calls, samples of the different types of trees and more. They also have boards to rent and games as well."
Activity planning: Families should consider campgrounds with diverse recreational options. One visitor to Liberty Lake Regional Park noted it "is know for its hiking trail. It is also close to play structure and small beach." Another mentioned that "There is plenty of space for swimming and fishing!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RVers should research site dimensions carefully. At Ruby's Resort, one camper warns the area is "definitely not made for big rigs or 40'. Smaller campers only." Sites at Liberty Lake are described as "close together" by some reviewers.
Hookup availability: Availability varies widely between equestrian campgrounds near Spokane Valley. A Kootenai County Fairgrounds RV Park visitor notes "The sites are all pretty level with the parking areas paved" and "Most of the sites are full hookup with 30 and 50 amp electric. Water and sewer dump."
Dump station access: Plan for sanitation needs. At Kootenai County Fairgrounds, "There is also a sewer dump station with 4 dumps, located just west of this park." Another camper at Liberty Lake Regional Park mentioned "The dump station is quite a drive, back out, up the hill."
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