The Valleyford area of eastern Washington sits at approximately 2,400 feet elevation with an arid climate characterized by hot summers and cold winters. Camping spots near Valleyford, Washington often feature rocky terrain with ponderosa pine forests that provide limited natural shade. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with significant temperature variations between day and night even during summer months.
What to do
Hiking trails: Liberty Lake Regional Park offers several hiking options including a waterfall trail. "It has beautiful hiking trails, a beach where you can swim and kayak and canoe and fish, birds and wildlife around singing beautifully day and night," notes Steve M. about the park's recreational activities.
Water recreation: Many campsites provide access to lakes and rivers for swimming and paddling. At Camp Coeur D Alene, visitors can take advantage of complimentary watercraft. "This place has great amenities (free canoes, hot showers, flush toilets, free firewood) which made it the nicest campground I had been to for awhile," according to Jared's review.
Wildlife viewing: The natural settings around Valleyford offer opportunities to spot local fauna. Joel R. from Liberty Lake Regional Park observed an impressive variety: "We saw moose, owls, pilated woodpecker, and hawks. There were deer in the campground every day."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate locations with room to spread out. At Bowl and Pitcher Campground, "Sites are pretty open not offering a good amount of privacy, though most are along the Spokane River. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring, with bbq grate," as Mary C. describes.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers rank high on campers' priority lists. Sienna V. at Camp Coeur D Alene mentions that "They had firewood for sale, a pool, and clean showers and bathrooms. We had a very comfortable stay and were able to connect to the wifi at our tent site."
Proximity to urban amenities: Several camping locations offer convenient access to nearby towns. Spokane KOA Journey receives praise for its strategic location. "We really had a great time here. The other campers were so friendly. Easy access to wineries and hikes. Clean facilities and sites," shares Ted N.
What you should know
Train noise: Multiple campgrounds near major rail lines experience disruptions. "It is right next to an active railroad, so bring earplugs if you don't want to be woken up by trains several times," warns Kristen M. about Spokane KOA Journey.
Seasonal limitations: Many facilities operate on restricted schedules. Liberty Lake Regional Park has a limited season from mid-May to mid-September, making advance planning essential for summer visits.
Level sites: Finding flat ground can be challenging at some locations. At Willow Creek Retreat, "This is five acres in a lovely pasture by a creek with large trees. There is 30 amp electricity and a porta-potty. Sites are big and grassy," according to Heidi C.
Airport proximity: Some campgrounds experience aircraft noise. Joshua P. notes about Willow Creek Retreat: "There is an airport near by but I only heard one plane during our stay!"
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Parks with swimming areas provide excellent recreation for children. Liberty Lake Regional Park features "a clean shower/bathroom building and a beach within walking distance of the campground," as Joel R. mentions.
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. Angel A. describes Liberty Lake Regional Park as "a nice site that is know for its hiking trail. It is also close to play structure and small beach."
Proximity to attractions: Locations near family-friendly destinations make outings easier. Northern Quest RV Resort provides "Nice RV park with Wi-Fi and Pool. Spacious lots with grass and asphalt pads. Easy to get around, quick access to a gas station and Wal-Mart is super close," according to Wes W.
Privacy considerations: Family camping often requires more space. "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. about Liberty Lake Regional Park.
Tips from RVers
Big rig access: Several parks accommodate larger vehicles. Northern Quest RV Resort features "concrete sites available" according to john, with level pads suitable for larger motorhomes.
Hookup availability: Full-service options vary by location. At Liberty Lake RV Campground, "The sites were nice and large, with paved pads and all pull-through," according to Brian C., who also noted it's "located in the middle of a city."
Road conditions: Access routes to some campgrounds present challenges. Joel R. notes about Liberty Lake Regional Park: "The road in is a little narrow, but once in, it's a great little campground."
Winter accommodations: Limited options exist during colder months. Brown Sign Junkies observed about Liberty Lake RV Campground: "There is also a $100 deposit on the heat tape during winter on the spigot. If you don't want to pay it then you have to call them to unlock the water to fill your tank."