Welcome to Riverside State Park, a picturesque natural oasis nestled in the heart of Washington state. Spanning over 9,000 acres, this stunning park offers an array of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts of all ages. From the serene Spokane River to the inviting camping grounds and mesmerizing hiking trails, Riverside State Park is a paradise for those seeking adventure and tranquility in one place.
Key Takeaways:
- Riverside State Park in Washington state is a sprawling natural haven packed with outdoor activities.
- Visitors can explore the Spokane River, camp in beautiful grounds, and hike along scenic trails.
- With its vast expanse and convenient location, Riverside State Park offers an unforgettable outdoor experience.
- Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in activities such as camping, hiking, and exploring the park’s extensive trail network.
- Riverside State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor adventure seekers.
Contents
Essential Information
When planning a visit to Riverside State Park, it’s important to have all the essential information to make the most of your trip. Here are the key details about the park’s location, facilities, and nearby parks.
Riverside State Park is conveniently located just nine miles northwest of downtown Spokane, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. Situated in Washington state, the park spans a total of 9,000 acres, offering ample space for outdoor activities and exploration.
The park provides various facilities to enhance your experience. From well-maintained campgrounds and picnic areas to scenic hiking trails, Riverside State Park has everything you need to enjoy a day out in nature.
For camping enthusiasts, there are campgrounds with different amenities to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer a standard campsite, a site with partial or full hookups for RVs, or cozy cabins, Riverside State Park has options to accommodate your needs.
When visiting the park, make sure to explore its neighboring parks as well. The Nine Mile Recreation Area, located nearby, offers its own set of outdoor attractions, including water activities and rock climbing. Another nearby park of interest is the Spokane House Interpretive Center, where you can learn about the area’s history and culture.
With its convenient location, diverse facilities, and proximity to other parks, Riverside State Park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and relaxation in the heart of Washington state.
Park Highlights
When it comes to highlighting the best features of Riverside State Park, two areas stand out – the Bowl and Pitcher and the Nine Mile Recreation Area. These destinations offer visitors a glimpse into the park’s stunning natural beauty and a wide range of recreational opportunities.
Bowl and Pitcher
The Bowl and Pitcher area features a picturesque campground, where visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature. Surrounded by towering ponderosa pines, campers can set up their tents or RVs and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. For those seeking a unique experience, the swinging bridge provides an exciting adventure, spanning the Spokane River. This suspension bridge offers stunning views and is a perfect spot for capturing memorable photographs. As you explore the miles of trails that wind through the area, you’ll discover the true essence of Riverside State Park’s natural wonders.
Nine Mile Recreation Area
The Nine Mile Recreation Area is a haven for water enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. The area offers various opportunities for fun and excitement, including water activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Spokane River. For the more adventurous, rock climbing is a popular option, providing a thrilling challenge amidst the park’s scenic cliffs. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful day of fishing or an adrenaline-pumping climb, the Nine Mile Recreation Area has it all.
Little Spokane River Natural Area
Within Riverside State Park, the designated Little Spokane River Natural Area showcases the unspoiled beauty of the park’s waterways. This serene section of the park offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the Little Spokane River. Explore the picturesque riverbanks, observe the wildlife, and take in the soothing sounds of nature. The Little Spokane River Natural Area invites you to reconnect with the wilderness and experience the true essence of Riverside State Park.
Discover the breathtaking park highlights of Riverside State Park, including the enchanting Bowl and Pitcher area, the exhilarating Nine Mile Recreation Area, and the serene Little Spokane River Natural Area. These attractions allow you to experience the beauty of Washington’s nature and create unforgettable memories in this magnificent outdoor oasis.
Activities
Riverside State Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a biking enthusiast, or a water sports lover, the park has something for everyone. Here are some of the exciting activities you can experience:
Hiking and Biking Trails
If you love the great outdoors, Riverside State Park is a paradise for hikers and bikers. With 55 miles of well-maintained trails, you can explore the park’s spectacular landscapes and diverse ecosystems. From leisurely strolls to challenging hikes, there are trails suitable for all skill levels.
Water Sports
For water sports enthusiasts, Riverside State Park offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming in the Spokane and Little Spokane rivers. Whether you prefer kayaking along the scenic waterways or casting your fishing line for a chance at a trophy catch, the park’s rivers provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable experiences.
Winter Activities
When winter arrives, Riverside State Park transforms into a winter wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts. The park becomes a hotspot for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Explore the park’s snowy trails and marvel at the beauty of nature in its winter attire.
Horseback Riding
With 25 miles of equestrian trails, Riverside State Park is a haven for horseback riding enthusiasts. Saddle up and explore the park’s picturesque landscapes while enjoying the gentle rhythm of your horse’s gait. It’s a unique way to experience the beauty of the park and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a relaxing outdoor experience, Riverside State Park offers a variety of activities to satisfy your craving for nature and adventure. Plan your visit today and embark on an unforgettable journey through the park’s stunning landscapes and vibrant outdoor recreation opportunities.
Accommodations
Riverside State Park offers a range of accommodation options to suit the needs of its visitors. Whether you’re planning a camping trip, looking for a cozy cabin, or seeking a picnic shelter for a day outing, the park has got you covered. Additionally, there are RV sites, tent sites, and equestrian campsites for those who prefer alternative camping experiences.
Camping
The Bowl and Pitcher area of Riverside State Park features a campground with various camping options. You can choose from standard campsites, partial-hookup sites, and full-hookup sites to make your stay as comfortable as possible. These campsites are perfect for families and groups who want to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the park’s serene surroundings. In addition, there are two cabins available for those seeking a more rustic yet convenient camping experience.
Picnic Shelters
For day visitors and picnickers, Riverside State Park offers picnic shelters and unsheltered picnic tables. These provide a shaded and comfortable area where you can enjoy your meals and relax amidst the park’s natural beauty. Please note that these shelters are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to arrive early to secure your spot.
RV Sites, Tent Sites, and Equestrian Campsites
If you prefer bringing your own accommodations, the Nine Mile Recreation Area within Riverside State Park offers RV sites, tent sites, and equestrian campsites. These sites provide the perfect opportunity to set up camp and explore the park at your own pace. The RV sites accommodate various sizes of recreational vehicles, ensuring a comfortable stay for all. The tent sites cater to those who prefer a more traditional camping experience, allowing you to sleep under the starry night sky. And for equestrians, the equestrian campsites provide a unique opportunity to explore the park’s trails with your horses.
With its diverse accommodation options, Riverside State Park ensures that every visitor can find the perfect place to stay and create lasting memories amidst the beauty of Washington’s nature.
Exploring the Area
Visitors to Riverside State Park can explore the surrounding area through various trails and attractions. One of the main highlights is the Spokane River Centennial State Park Trail, which runs through the park. This 40-mile-long paved trail offers an incredible opportunity for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of the Spokane River.
For those interested in the history of the region, the Spokane House Interpretive Center at Nine Mile Falls is a must-visit. This center provides fascinating insights into the fur trade and Native American culture that played a significant role in shaping the area.
Moreover, there are several nearby attractions to explore. For those looking for alternative accommodation options, Ponderosa Falls RV Park and Trailer Inns R.V. Park/Spokane are convenient options situated in the vicinity of Riverside State Park. These parks provide a comfortable and convenient stay for visitors eager to explore all that the area has to offer.
Conclusion
Riverside State Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Washington. Located just nine miles northwest of downtown Spokane, this park offers a diverse range of activities, showcasing the natural beauty of Washington state parks. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures or a peaceful retreat in nature, Riverside State Park has it all.
From hiking the miles of scenic trails to camping under the starry sky, you can immerse yourself in the great outdoors. The Spokane River runs through the park, providing opportunities for water sports like boating, fishing, and swimming. And when winter comes, the park transforms into a winter wonderland, offering trails for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.
Conveniently located near other parks, such as Nine Mile Recreation Area and the Spokane House Interpretive Center, Riverside State Park offers endless possibilities for exploration. Whether you’re a history buff curious about the fur trade or a nature lover wanting to witness the beauty of the Little Spokane River Natural Area, there is something for everyone.
So plan your visit to Riverside State Park and experience the wonders of outdoor recreation in Washington state parks. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and embrace the tranquility of nature. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes, forge unforgettable memories, and discover why Riverside State Park is a true gem in the heart of Washington.
FAQ
What activities can I do at Riverside State Park?
Riverside State Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, camping, picnicking, fishing, boating, swimming, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, and more.
Where is Riverside State Park located?
Riverside State Park is located just nine miles northwest of downtown Spokane in Washington state.
What are the highlights of Riverside State Park?
Some of the main highlights of Riverside State Park include the Bowl and Pitcher area with its scenic campground and swinging bridge, the Nine Mile Recreation Area for water activities and rock climbing, and the Little Spokane River Natural Area for exploring the natural beauty of the river.
What accommodations are available at Riverside State Park?
Riverside State Park provides various accommodation options including standard, partial-hookup, and full-hookup campsites, cabins, picnic shelters, tent sites, RV sites, and equestrian campsites.
What are some nearby attractions to explore?
Visitors to Riverside State Park can explore the Spokane River Centennial State Park Trail, visit the Spokane House Interpretive Center at Nine Mile Falls, and discover other nearby attractions such as Ponderosa Falls RV Park and Trailer Inns R.V. Park/Spokane.
Is Riverside State Park suitable for all skill levels?
Yes, Riverside State Park offers activities and trails that cater to all skill levels, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced outdoor enthusiast.
Can I bring my horse to Riverside State Park?
Yes, Riverside State Park has 25 miles of equestrian trails and offers equestrian campsites for visitors who wish to bring their horses.
