Spokane's camping areas range from state park campgrounds to private RV resorts, with most sites located within 20 miles of the city center. Riverside State Park offers multiple camping options including the popular Bowl and Pitcher Campground along the Spokane River, while Liberty Lake Regional Park provides both tent and cabin accommodations east of the city. Northern Quest RV Resort and Spokane KOA Journey feature more developed facilities for RVers seeking full hookups. Several campgrounds in the area support mixed camping styles, with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals available at the same location.
Most developed campgrounds in the Spokane region operate seasonally, with peak availability from May through September. Liberty Lake Regional Park typically opens from mid-May to mid-September, while Nine Mile Recreation Area at Riverside State Park maintains a similar seasonal schedule. Several campgrounds like Spokane KOA and Trailer Inns RV Park remain open year-round for winter camping needs. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer weekends, particularly for waterfront or hookup sites. Riverside State Park sites tend to fill quickly due to their proximity to the city and riverside location. A visitor noted: "If you want to camp but still be close to all the city amenities then this is the spot for you. Beautiful location by the river with miles of biking and walking trails."
Campers frequently mention the balance of natural settings and urban convenience as a defining characteristic of Spokane area campgrounds. Riverside State Park receives praise for its extensive trail network and river access, though some reviewers note the campsite proximity can feel crowded during peak season. "The campground is in great shape, and neighbors were super respectful. Bathrooms were in amazing condition and staff was so friendly," reported one camper about Bowl and Pitcher Campground. Many campers appreciate the clean facilities and well-maintained shower buildings found at the larger campgrounds. Sites with more privacy are limited but available, with Dragoon Creek Campground offering a more rustic experience. For equestrians, Riverside State Park's dedicated Equestrian Campground provides specialized facilities with direct access to riding trails along the Spokane River.
"We enjoyed the beauty of the Spokane River, walking across the suspension bridge and hiking the trails. The mosquitoes on the trail were very present, but in the campground we saw very few."
"The Bowl and Pitcher campground sits on the Spokane river just minutes from downtown Spokane. It doesn’t feel like it’s close to town. The area offers miles of hiking and biking trails."
$50 - $300 / night
"A nice campsite close to Spokane and Idaho. Friendly staff and clean. I really like this spot, but the noise from the trains is loud. Be sure to bring earplugs if you are tent camping."
"It is located in between Spokane proper and Coeur d'Alene (so Spokane Valley). There are tons of spots to choose from, but it gets pretty busy in the summer."
$65 - $75 / night
"Easy to get around, quick access to a gas station and Wal-Mart is super close."
$25 / night
"This is our 3rd visit to Liberty Lake Regional Park. It’s a small campground on Liberty Lake just east of Spokane WA. It’s a little hard to get to, and not suitable for large Class A motorhomes!"
"This is a Spokane County campground about a mile from the Idaho border. It’s located down a country road so use the website to find it."
"Surrounded by private property, so no hiking. 1/2 hour from Spokane. Free with Discovery Pass. Fills up by Friday afternoon."
"It does require a Washington park pass and there is a camp post that comes around multiple times during the day to check everyone’s and make sure they are not extending their stay past the limit."
$31 - $41 / night
"This area accesses many miles of hiking/biking/horseback trails along the scenic Spokane River, but the campground itself is reserved for equestrians."
"Super close to the hospital and the owners are very friendly and helpful."
$50 - $79 / night
"There is an airport near by but I only heard one plane during our stay! Would love to stay here longer next time!"
"I loved being out near the pastures, with plenty of adorable and sweet animals. The host is so kind and responsive and I am so grateful to her for opening the property up to campers :) 12/10!!"
"The toilets were nice and clean and there’s a nearby walking path through the woods that was covered in wildflowers!"
"The resort is right on Long Lake, there is an area to swim, and it’s a good spot for waterskiing. There are picnic pavilions and a boat launch, and lots of camping sites."
"If you have access to military facilities I strongly recommend it."
"It is fairly close to base amenities. Nice commissary and PX store on base."
TravelerThis campground has everything you need & more, clean bathrooms, spacious sites that are secluded by a creek that just so happens to make falling asleep under the stars EVEN better. Our site was tucked by the river and had so much room to spread out. & A cute little gift shop with the added bonus of icecream. We loved this campground.
TravelerThis campground is exactly what you’d expect, nestled away close to the peak of mount spokane. Huckleberry season was upon us when we visited and we hardly had to leave the campground to find plenty. The campsites were comfortably sized though I would say a bit close together for my liking, you definitely could hear everything and everyone around you.
RangerWe stopped for the night on our way to northern Montana. A bit wet but it is winter so we expected it. There were a few other campers but plenty of spots available. Enjoyed a quiet evening and a good night sleep. Would definitely use this area again.
RangerStayed here passing thru, plenty of open space so didn’t really sleep near anyone else which was nice. It says there’s a bathroom, I never saw one but there’s multiple roads so we probably went the opposite way
TravelerThe space was flat, wide open, nobody was there, the only odd thing was the deer pelt randomly laying on the ground.
ScoutBeautiful dispersed camping suitable from small to larger RV's or tent camping right along Coeur d'Alene River ... vaulted toilets available, fishing, hiking ... drive along Coeur D'alene River Rd to milepost 14 - also additional dispersed camping further up Rd close to milepost 21.
GuideThis maybe the best COE we have camped at. Clean campsite, clean restrooms and showers. Dog Island allowed dogs off leash and swimming. Beautiful Day Use area, sprinkler system had entire day use area green. Campsite was fairly secluded. Love to stay there again.
RangerBathrooms with showers, beautiful sites, water access. Very nice.
RangerYou have to pay online but there’s no phone service here! Plan ahead. The spot are spread out and give you elbow room and a good atmosphere. Good dog walking around the area.
Spokane, Washington provides a variety of camping experiences within easy reach of the city. Riverside State Park features multiple campgrounds including the popular Bowl and Pitcher Campground with access to hiking trails along the Spokane River. Northern Quest RV Resort, Liberty Lake Regional Park, and Spokane KOA Journey offer developed camping with amenities for tent, RV, and cabin campers. Most established campgrounds in the area maintain year-round or seasonal availability, with several providing both primitive and improved sites.
Camping access throughout the Spokane region varies seasonally, with many parks operating on limited schedules from May through September. Liberty Lake Regional Park operates from mid-May to mid-September, while Nine Mile Recreation Area at Riverside State Park is only open during summer months. Reservations are highly recommended for most established campgrounds, especially during peak summer weekends. Water and electric hookups are common at the larger campgrounds, though primitive sites with limited amenities can be found at locations like Dragoon Creek Campground. Most campgrounds provide toilets, though shower availability is limited to the more developed facilities. "The campsite was in great shape, and neighbors were super respectful. Bathrooms were in AMAZING condition and staff was so friendly," noted one visitor to Bowl and Pitcher.
Riverside State Park stands out as a popular destination with several specialized camping areas, including an equestrian campground with dedicated facilities for horse owners. Sites at many campgrounds tend to be close together with limited privacy, particularly at Bowl and Pitcher. A visitor observed, "If you're used to dispersed camping, you won't be happy with how close your neighbors are." Despite this proximity to neighbors, many campers appreciate the convenient location with access to both natural amenities and city services. Sites along the Spokane River are particularly desirable, offering scenic views and recreation opportunities. Family-friendly campgrounds predominate in the region, with clean facilities and well-maintained grounds regularly mentioned in visitor feedback. Several campgrounds offer both tent and RV sites with varying levels of hookups, allowing for multiple camping styles in a single location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best camping spots near Spokane?
Spokane offers excellent camping options within a short drive from the city. Bowl and Pitcher Campground — Riverside State Park sits right on the Spokane River just minutes from downtown, offering beautiful scenery without feeling urban. For those seeking a family-friendly experience, Dragoon Creek Campground provides a peaceful setting with a swimming hole just 30 minutes from Spokane. If you're looking for free camping, Fishtrap Recreation Area offers dispersed sites with easy access to supplies. Liberty Lake Regional Park east of Spokane features waterfront camping, while Hog Lake Campground provides a great spot for winter and spring camping just 30 minutes from the city. Each location offers unique experiences from riverside relaxation to lakeside recreation.
What amenities are available at Spokane campgrounds?
Amenities at Spokane-area campgrounds vary widely based on the type of experience you're seeking. Liberty Lake Regional Park offers 16 RV sites with water and electric hookups, though access can be challenging for large Class A motorhomes. Lake Spokane Campground—Riverside State Park provides basic amenities with reasonably priced sites, picnic areas, and hiking trails along the Spokane River. For more developed options, Northern Quest RV Resort features full hookups and is big-rig friendly. Primitive camping enthusiasts will appreciate Rogers Bar, which offers spacious sites under trees and beach access but only vault toilets with no water. Many state park campgrounds require a Washington Discovery Pass, and facilities typically include vault toilets, designated camping areas, and sometimes drinking water, but amenities decrease at dispersed camping locations.
Is tent camping available near Spokane?
Tent camping is widely available near Spokane with options ranging from developed campgrounds to primitive sites. Fishtrap Recreation Area offers free dispersed tent camping just a short drive from Spokane. For a more developed experience, Rogers Bar provides primitive tent camping with spacious cleared areas under trees, beach access, and vault toilets, though you'll need to bring your own water. Bowl and Pitcher Campground at Riverside State Park accommodates tent campers with dedicated sites separate from the RV area. Dragoon Creek Campground is another tent-friendly option with a swimming hole and water available on-site. Most tent camping areas around Spokane have basic amenities like vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables, while state park campgrounds typically require a Discovery Pass and may have stay limits, often three days within a 30-day period.
What are the best seasons for camping around Spokane?
The Spokane region offers year-round camping opportunities with each season providing unique experiences. Spring through fall is generally the prime camping season, with summer offering warm temperatures perfect for water activities. Hog Lake Campground is especially popular for winter and early spring camping, with fishing season open through March 31. Bald Knob Campground — Mount Spokane State Park showcases Washington's largest state park, making it ideal for summer and early fall visits when high-elevation temperatures are most comfortable. For shoulder seasons, campgrounds near water like Rogers Bar offer refreshing experiences in late spring and early fall. Winter camping is available at several locations but comes with fewer amenities and requires proper cold-weather gear. Popular campgrounds fill quickly on summer weekends, with Dragoon Creek often reaching capacity by Friday afternoon.
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