Riverside State Park Equestrian Campground offers trail riders approximately 60 miles northwest of Sprague access to extensive horse-friendly terrain along the Spokane River. Located in eastern Washington where summer temperatures often exceed 90°F and winter conditions can drop below freezing, this equestrian-focused facility serves as the primary horse campground near Sprague. The campground typically operates from early spring through late fall, with some seasonal facility limitations during shoulder seasons.
What to do
Trail riding experiences: Riders at Liberty Lake Regional Park have access to multiple hiking and equestrian trails where wildlife viewing is common. "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.
Swimming and fishing: The swimming areas at nearby lakes provide relief during hot summer months. "This is a place that my family and I visit a lot. We love how calm the river is and the convenience of bringing our dogs. There is a nice cement slab just in the water so it makes a safe place for kids," shares Arica C. about Riverside State Park.
Horse training facilities: Beyond trail riding, equestrians can utilize dedicated training areas. "This area accesses many miles of hiking/biking/horseback trails along the scenic Spokane River, but the campground itself is reserved for equestrians. There is also an arena, round pen, and trail training course a quarter mile up the road from the campground," explains Gary M. about the specialized facilities available to horse owners.
What campers like
River access: Proximity to the Spokane River creates opportunities for water recreation from most area campgrounds. "The swinging bridge is awesome. Popular area. The bathrooms are nice, the river is beautiful," writes Andrea R. about Riverside State Park.
Spacious sites: Some campgrounds offer more room than others, with select sites providing better separation. "We had our choice of two tent sites for our conversion van. We selected a shaded spot. They had ice for sale and take credit cards," reports Beth M. about finding accommodations at Liberty Lake.
Wildlife viewing: The natural surroundings support diverse wildlife populations easily spotted from campsites. "We were there over July 4th weekend and they had a fireworks display on the beach," adds Joel R., highlighting seasonal events that complement the natural setting at Liberty Lake Regional Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons, securing spots in advance becomes essential, especially for equestrian areas. "For large groups and/or overflow, permission may be granted for camping in adjacent areas suitable for high lining horses. Even though this area is only 20 minutes from our home, we frequently camp there just for fun!" explains Gary M. about Riverside State Park Equestrian Campground.
Site privacy considerations: Campsite layouts vary significantly between camping areas. "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," advises Annika W.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely between horse campgrounds near Sprague, with some areas offering better coverage than others. "This is a perfect getaway for people looking to unplug as no cell service (tested on sprint, verizon, and google fi) is available," reports Mary C. about disconnecting at Bowl and Pitcher campground.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access options: Multiple camping locations offer water access ideal for children. "It is very close to play structure and small beach. It has paved/gravel roads," describes Angel A. about Liberty Lake Regional Park.
Safety considerations: Certain camping areas provide more controlled environments for younger visitors. "It has the most beautiful breath taking sceneries. It also seems like the perfect atmosphere to really be able to bond with your horse, so you both can be comfortable while being train together," comments Keila C. about the equestrian campground.
Weekend planning: Family-oriented sites fill quickly during summer months, especially holiday weekends. "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," shares Joel R.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds require additional equipment for proper setup. "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," reports Adam B. about Ruby's Resort.
Size limitations: Larger rigs face challenges at several area campgrounds. "Definitely not made for big rigs or 40'. Smaller campers only," warns Jen S. about Ruby's Resort.
Hookup availability: Electric and water access varies significantly between sites, with full hookups limited at many locations. "The location is beautiful. However, the sites are quite small, there is no designated pet area, and showers are .25 a minute," notes Cindy about amenities at Ruby's Resort.
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