Riverside State Park spans over 14,000 acres of forest and rocky terrain along the Spokane River, just a few miles from downtown Spokane. The park sits at approximately 1,800 feet elevation and experiences warm, dry summers with temperatures often reaching the 90s. Camping options in the Spokane area range from primitive tent sites to full RV hookups with varying levels of accessibility to water sources and trail systems.
What to do
Hiking trails: Riverside State Park offers extensive trail networks with options for all skill 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... Lots of space for swimming and fishing!" according to a Riverside State Park visitor.
Disc golf: Pend Oreille County Park features an 18-hole disc golf course among its amenities. "Day Use, Hiking, Horseback riding, Over 7 miles worth of trails and Disc Golf all free. We just ask that you donate to the park, if able. All improvements are done by donations and are greatly appreciated," notes a Pend Oreille County Park camper.
Water activities: Liberty Lake Regional Park provides swimming and boating options during summer months. "It is very close to play structure and small beach. It has paved/gravel roads," writes one visitor to Liberty Lake Regional Park.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Sites at Liberty Lake have varying degrees of privacy. "I stayed in the tent part of the campground, and the sites (especially the first few) are awfully close. This is a great campground for camping with friends but I don't recommend it for a quiet getaway," shares one Liberty Lake Regional Park camper.
Wildlife viewing: Campers report diverse wildlife sightings throughout the area. A visitor to Riverside State Park mentioned, "This is a perfect getaway for people looking to unplug as no cell service is available. There is tons of wildlife and lots of trails and riverbank to explore."
Year-round access: Some campsites remain open outside peak season. "We actually live right down the road from this park and now a days, hike here regularly. But back in the day, we camped here a few times when a big vacation was not an option. This is a nice little campground with plenty of tent sites and trails to check out," notes a Camp Coeur D Alene visitor.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many sites book quickly during summer. "We did not have reservations beforehand and got the last space available on a Monday, Advise reservations," warns a camper at Riverside State Park.
Cell service: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. "TMobile cell service was surprisingly slow given our proximity to Spokane," reports a Riverside State Park visitor, while another noted, "We were there over July 4th weekend and they had a fireworks display on the beach."
Noise considerations: Some camping areas experience highway noise. "This campground is next to the interstate. I called last minute as we were driving through and was offered a tent site next to 'the creek'—turns out the creek is the ditch between the highway and campsite. It's loud, and bright with lights from the highway," cautions a Wolf Lodge Campground visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety: Liberty Lake offers family-friendly swimming areas. "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," shares a Riverside State Park camper.
Glamping alternatives: For families seeking glamping near Spokane, Washington, several campgrounds offer enhanced accommodations. "Clear Lake Recreation Area is amazing! The scenery is beautiful, and there are plenty of activities for everyone," writes a visitor to Clear Lake Recreation Area.
Day trip options: Many campgrounds provide easy access to nearby attractions. "We spent 3 weeks at Liberty Lake Regional Park while visiting our son and grandkids in Spokane. The road in is a little narrow, but once in, it's a great little campground," reports a Liberty Lake visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Be prepared with leveling blocks at some campgrounds. "Nice cozy camp site. Can be a bit crowded but is nice here. Cell service is solid att and Verizon. Nice hiking and cycling trails. Lake looks pretty but didn't go in. Was very hot here in July with no wind," advises a Liberty Lake camper.
Hookup availability: Full service options exist but may require advance planning. "Most of the sites are fairly level. We stayed at 2 different sites over 3 weeks, and both were level. They are close together! They provide a fire pit if you want one. Picnic table, water and electric," notes a Liberty Lake RV camper.
Park accessibility: Some roads into campgrounds can be challenging for larger rigs. "The road in was kinda sketchy if you are pulling a large RV. It is surrounded by a heavily wooded area that is very beautiful and well kept up," cautions a Liberty Lake visitor.
