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Riverside State Park: Washingtonโs Premier Multi-Zone Recreation Destination Along the Spokane River
Riverside State Park stands as Washingtonโs second-largest state park, encompassing 9,194 acres of diverse recreation zones along the Spokane and Little Spokane rivers in Nine Mile Falls. This expansive park offers something for every outdoor enthusiast through its specialized areas: the iconic Bowl and Pitcher campground with its historic swinging bridge, Nine Mile Recreation Area for water sports, a 600-acre off-road vehicle park, dedicated equestrian facilities, and nearly 80 miles of trails connecting it all. From whitewater rafting to horseback riding, rock climbing to peaceful paddling, Riverside State Park delivers unmatched variety in one spectacular riverside setting.
Riverside State Park Fast Facts
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Nine Mile Falls, Spokane County, Washington |
| Address | 9711 W Charles Road, Nine Mile Falls, WA 99026 |
| Size | 9,194 acres |
| Coordinates | 47.75085068, -117.5325623 |
| Established | 1933-1934 |
| Key Features | Bowl and Pitcher swinging bridge, 5 distinct recreation zones, 80 miles of trails |
| Activities | Camping, hiking, ORV riding, equestrian, water sports, rock climbing |
| Trail System | 80 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails plus Spokane River Centennial Trail |
| Camping | 60+ campsites across 3 campgrounds plus cabins and group facilities |
| Hours | 6:30 AM to dusk (summer), 8 AM to dusk (winter) |
| Contact | (509) 465-5064 |
Park Overview
Riverside State Park preserves nearly 200,000 feet of shoreline along the rushing Spokane River and serene Little Spokane River, creating Washingtonโs most diverse multi-zone recreation experience. The parkโs crown jewel, Bowl and Pitcher, nestles beneath towering Ponderosa Pines along dramatic basalt formations where the iconic CCC-built swinging bridge connects camping areas to extensive trail networks. This varied landscape encompasses everything from whitewater rapids and vertical cliff faces to peaceful wetlands and oxbow lakes, supporting both adrenaline-seeking adventures and tranquil nature experiences.
The parkโs strategic design accommodates specialized recreation through dedicated zones, each offering distinct experiences while connecting through the extensive trail system. From the Spokane House Interpretive Center preserving Native American and fur trade history to modern ORV facilities and equestrian arenas, Riverside State Park successfully balances historical preservation with contemporary recreation demands, making it a premier destination for both locals and visitors exploring the Inland Northwest.
Activities & Recreation
| Activity | Details | Season | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hiking | 80 miles of trails through diverse terrain | Year-round | Easy to Difficult |
| Mountain Biking | Extensive single-track and fire road system | Year-round | Moderate to Difficult |
| Water Sports | Spokane River whitewater, Little Spokane paddling, Lake Spokane boating | April-October | Moderate to Difficult |
| ORV Riding | 600 acres with beginner areas and advanced terrain | Year-round | Beginner to Advanced |
| Equestrian | 9 miles of horse-only trails plus mixed-use access, arena facilities | March-December | Easy to Moderate |
| Rock Climbing | Basalt cliff formations throughout park | Year-round | Moderate to Difficult |
The Spokane River offers thrilling whitewater rafting from Plese Flats to Nine Mile Dam, while the gentler Little Spokane River provides peaceful paddling opportunities restricted to non-motorized watercraft. Lake Spokane accommodates motorized boating, fishing, and swimming with full boat launch facilities. Winter activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling throughout the extensive trail network.
Facilities & Amenities
Riverside State Park provides comprehensive facilities across its specialized zones. The Bowl and Pitcher area features the historic CCC Kitchen Shelter accommodating 60 guests with electricity and wood stove, plus two additional picnic shelters and an amphitheater. Nine Mile Recreation Area offers swimming areas, boat launches, and three kitchen shelters with varying capacities. The Equestrian Area includes a 140-by-240-foot arena with announcer stand, 60-foot round pen, obstacle course, and kitchen shelter. ORV facilities provide loading ramps, parking, restrooms, and picnic areas. The Spokane House Interpretive Center operates seasonally with exhibits on Native American culture and fur trade history.
Camping & Accommodations
The park offers diverse overnight accommodations across three campgrounds. Bowl and Pitcher Campground provides 16 standard sites, 13 partial-hookup sites, two full-hookup sites, two cabins accommodating five guests each, and two group camps for 20-60 tent campers. The Equestrian Campground features 20 sites with horse corrals, including 10 with electrical hookups. Lake Spokane Campground offers 10 standard sites, one companion site, one group site for 25 campers, and nine boat-in campsites available year-round. Maximum RV length reaches 45 feet at Bowl and Pitcher. All campgrounds provide restroom facilities, with Bowl and Pitcher and Lake Spokane offering shower facilities.
Planning Your Visit
Riverside State Park operates year-round with seasonal hour adjustments and facility availability. Summer hours run 6:30 AM to dusk, while winter hours are 8 AM to dusk. The Equestrian Area operates seasonally April 1 to October 31 for camping, March 1 to December 15 for day use. Lake Spokane facilities open April 1 to October 31. Nine Mile Recreation Area boat launch operates April 1 to October 31. The park requires a Discover Pass for day visits. Reservations are highly recommended for camping, cabins, and the CCC Kitchen Shelter. Multiple contact numbers serve different areas: Bowl and Pitcher (509) 625-5553, Nine Mile (509) 468-2286, and Lake Spokane (509) 258-9115.
What to Bring & Know
โข Spokane River whitewater requires experience and proper safety equipment due to hazardous rapids
โข Little Spokane River Natural Area prohibits motorized boats, bikes, pets, and swimming to protect sensitive habitat
โข ORV vehicles must be trailered to the designated area unless street legal
โข Equestrian area offers guided trail rides through Pacific Northwest Guided Trail Rides
โข Historic swinging bridge connects Bowl and Pitcher camping with extensive trail networks
โข Winter activities include snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on designated trails
Final Word
Riverside State Park delivers Washingtonโs most comprehensive outdoor recreation experience, combining the natural beauty of two distinct river systems with specialized facilities that accommodate every adventure level, from peaceful family camping to adrenaline-pumping whitewater and ORV challenges.
This park is part of the Explore Washington State Parks Directoryโshowcasing all of Washington’s State Parks from the rugged Pacific coast to the Cascade peaks. Whether you’re camping under old-growth forests, hiking scenic trails, or discovering local history, we’re highlighting the places where people connect with the state’s incredible natural and cultural heritageโall year long.
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Explore Washington State is committed to highlighting every corner of Washington State, publishing new content focused on hidden gems, travel tips, outdoor activities and more throughout the week. Remember, there is always more to explore!
- About the Author
- Latest Posts
Explore Washington State is committed to highlighting every corner of Washington State, publishing new content focused on hidden gems, travel tips, outdoor activities and more throughout the week. Remember, there is always more to explore!