Nine Mile Recreation Area Campground

For those of us living in Washington, finding that perfect outdoor escape that blends natural beauty with convenient access is a true treasure. Look no further than the Nine Mile Recreation Area Campground, a beloved part of Riverside State Park, located right here in Nine Mile Falls, WA. This scenic campground offers a refreshing retreat by the water, providing a fantastic opportunity to unwind, explore, and create lasting memories with family and friends.

The Nine Mile Recreation Area Campground is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it’s a vibrant hub of outdoor activity and serene relaxation. Nestled along the shores of Long Lake, which is part of the Spokane River system, this area promises beautiful waterfront views, especially at sunset, making it a picturesque backdrop for your camping adventures. While it’s renowned for its tranquil atmosphere, it also offers a wealth of recreational opportunities, from water sports to extensive trail systems. It's a place where you can launch your boat for a day on the lake, take a refreshing swim, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk through the woods, spotting wildflowers along the way. Campers consistently praise the clean facilities, including well-maintained toilets and showers, ensuring a comfortable stay. The campground caters to both RV and tent campers, offering a variety of site types to suit different preferences. Its integration within Riverside State Park means visitors have access to an even broader range of activities and amenities, solidifying its reputation as a premier outdoor destination for Washington locals.

The Nine Mile Recreation Area Campground is conveniently situated at Nine Mile Falls, WA 99026, USA. This prime location places it right on Long Lake, which is fed by the Spokane River, offering immediate waterfront access. For residents of Spokane and surrounding areas, the campground is easily accessible via Washington State Route 291. The drive to the campground is straightforward, leading you away from urban hustle into a peaceful, natural setting without requiring extensive travel time. Its proximity to Spokane (just 8 miles away) means you can enjoy a quick weekend getaway or even a day trip without a lengthy commute.

Once at the Nine Mile Recreation Area, visitors will find well-defined roads within the campground, making it easy to navigate to your chosen site. Parking is generally available directly at the campsites for both RVs and tents. While some areas within Riverside State Park might have specific parking requirements or fees (like the Discover Pass for day use), the campground itself is designed for convenient vehicle access to campsites. The location on Long Lake means that boat launches are readily available, allowing easy access for those bringing their watercraft. The combination of easy road access from Spokane and seamless internal navigation within the recreation area makes Nine Mile a highly accessible and desirable destination for Washington locals seeking a quick and convenient escape to nature.

The Nine Mile Recreation Area Campground offers a range of essential services and amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for all visitors. These include:

• RV Sites with Hookups: The campground features 21 RV sites of varying lengths, many with electric and water hookups, providing convenience for RV travelers. A trailer dump station is also available.
• Tent Sites: Three dedicated tent sites are available, offering a more traditional camping experience, some providing stunning sunset views over the water.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, perfect for outdoor meals and gatherings.
• Fire Rings: Individual fire rings are provided at each site, allowing for campfires (subject to current burn bans and park regulations).
• Clean Toilets and Showers: Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness and maintenance of the restroom facilities, including flush toilets and showers, which are a significant comfort after a day of outdoor activities.
• Kitchen Shelters: The recreation area includes three kitchen shelters with electricity. Two of these shelters can accommodate up to 40 guests, while a smaller one can host 20, ideal for group gatherings.
• Boat Launch and Swimming Area: Direct access to Long Lake includes a boat launch and a designated swimming area, perfect for water activities.
• Canoe and Kayak Rentals: From May 15 through September 15, visitors can rent canoes and kayaks on-site, providing easy access to water sports even without bringing your own equipment.
• Park Store: A convenient park store is available, offering essential supplies like wood, ice, and basic camping necessities.
• Potable Water: Accessible water faucets are available throughout the campground for drinking and other needs.
• Trash Collection: Designated bins are provided for waste disposal to maintain the cleanliness of the park.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed, provided they are kept on a leash, making it easy to bring your furry companions along.

The Nine Mile Recreation Area Campground boasts several unique features and highlights that make it a standout choice for campers in Washington:

• Stunning Waterfront Location: Situated directly on Long Lake (part of the Spokane River), many sites offer incredible views, particularly at sunset. This proximity to the water makes it ideal for swimming, waterskiing, and boating.
• Diverse Campsite Options: With 21 RV sites (some with hookups) and 3 tent sites, the campground caters to a variety of camping styles, ensuring a spot for everyone.
• Extensive Trail System: The campground provides direct access to miles of trails within Riverside State Park. This includes walking paths through the woods adorned with wildflowers, suitable for leisurely strolls and longer hikes. The nearly 40-mile-long Spokane River Centennial State Park Trail also runs nearby, perfect for biking and walking.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Reviewers note the friendly and welcoming environment, making it a great destination for families. The availability of swimming areas and rentals adds to its appeal for all ages.
• Iconic Swinging Bridge Access: While the Nine Mile Recreation Area has its own charms, it's part of the larger Riverside State Park, meaning visitors can easily access other park highlights, including the famous swinging bridge at the Bowl and Pitcher Area and additional trails.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The natural setting provides chances to observe local wildlife, with deer often making appearances within the campground.
• Spokane House Interpretive Center: Located nearby, this center offers insights into the history of the early fur trade and its impact on the Native American population, adding an educational element to your visit.
• Quiet and Peaceful Ambiance: Despite its range of activities, many campers describe the area as peaceful and quiet, offering a serene escape.

For more information, inquiries, or to make reservations at the Nine Mile Recreation Area Campground, please contact Riverside State Park directly. While a specific phone number for the Nine Mile Recreation Area itself might not be publicly listed, contacting the main park office is the best approach:

Address: Nine Mile Falls, WA 99026, USA (This is the general location for the recreation area within Riverside State Park)

General Park Information & Reservations Phone (Washington State Parks): (888) CAMPOUT or (888) 226-7688

For specific inquiries about the Nine Mile Recreation Area, you may also try contacting the Riverside State Park office directly:

Riverside State Park Address: 9711 W Charles Road, Nine Mile Falls, WA 99026

It is always advisable to check the official Washington State Parks website for the most up-to-date information on reservations, seasonal closures, fees, and any current alerts or restrictions for the Nine Mile Recreation Area Campground.

For locals in Washington, especially those in the Spokane metropolitan area, the Nine Mile Recreation Area Campground is an ideal and highly suitable destination for numerous reasons. Its exceptional accessibility means you can transition from city life to a tranquil lakeside setting in mere minutes, making it perfect for spontaneous weekend trips or even just a day visit. The variety of camping options, from RV sites with hookups to traditional tent sites, caters to diverse preferences, ensuring everyone can find their comfortable spot. The standout features like the beautiful sunset views over Long Lake, the clean facilities, and the availability of kayak rentals mean that all the ingredients for a memorable outdoor adventure are right at your fingertips. For families, the designated swimming area and walking paths offer endless opportunities for wholesome fun, while the pet-friendly policy ensures no family member is left behind. Although some may note a lack of shade, the overall friendly atmosphere and wealth of activities far outweigh minor considerations. It’s a place where you can enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, and simply relaxing by the water, all within a convenient drive from home. The Nine Mile Recreation Area Campground truly embodies the spirit of Washington's accessible outdoor recreation, providing a fantastic local resource for unplugging and enjoying the natural beauty of our state.