Nine Mile Recreation Area Campground

Are you a Washington local searching for the perfect blend of scenic beauty, waterside recreation, and peaceful outdoor living? Nine Mile Recreation Area Campground, nestled within the expansive Riverside State Park near Nine Mile Falls, WA, offers just that. This isn't just a place to set up camp; it's a gateway to enjoying the stunning Spokane River and Long Lake, surrounded by the natural splendor of the Pacific Northwest. For those who cherish moments spent by the water, with the convenience of well-maintained facilities and a friendly atmosphere, Nine Mile Recreation Area is an exceptional choice.

This campground is a celebrated part of Riverside State Park, known for its iconic swinging bridge and miles of trails. At Nine Mile Recreation Area, you'll find a serene environment that truly allows you to unwind and soak in the natural beauty. Imagine pitching your tent with an amazing view of the sunset over the water, or parking your RV just steps from where you can launch your boat for a day of fishing or waterskiing. It’s an ideal setting for families, couples, and solo adventurers looking to reconnect with nature without venturing too far off the beaten path.

What truly sets Nine Mile Recreation Area Campground apart is its direct access to Long Lake and the Spokane River, offering a plethora of water-based activities. Coupled with clean facilities and a welcoming ambiance, it consistently provides a positive and memorable experience for its visitors. Whether your idea of a perfect getaway involves active days on the water, tranquil evenings by a campfire, or exploring picturesque walking paths, this campground offers a delightful blend of opportunities right in your backyard.

Nine Mile Recreation Area Campground is strategically located within Riverside State Park, near the community of Nine Mile Falls, Washington. The address, Nine Mile Falls, WA 99026, USA, pinpoints its position along the beautiful Spokane River, as it flows into Long Lake (also known as Lake Spokane). This area is situated northwest of Spokane, offering a convenient escape from the city while feeling wonderfully immersed in nature.

For Washington locals, accessing Nine Mile Recreation Area is generally straightforward. The park is reachable via state highways and well-maintained local roads. From Spokane, travelers typically head northwest on Highway 291 (Nine Mile Road), which leads directly to the Nine Mile Falls area. The entrance to the recreation area and campground is usually clearly marked from these main routes.

It's important to note that while the campground is accessible for both RVs and tents, some of the access roads within the park leading to specific areas, or the entry road to the campground itself, may be unpaved or narrow and winding through private property, as highlighted by some visitor reviews. This adds to the rustic charm but advises campers to drive slowly and be aware of their surroundings. Despite this, the campground is designed to accommodate vehicles, with designated RV sites of varying lengths and tent sites. Parking is typically available directly at or near the campsites, depending on the specific site type.

The proximity to Nine Mile Falls and the broader Spokane area ensures that essential supplies and services are not far away, balancing the sense of an outdoor retreat with practical convenience. This excellent accessibility makes Nine Mile Recreation Area a highly suitable and sought-after destination for Washington residents seeking a scenic and active outdoor experience.

Nine Mile Recreation Area Campground, as part of Riverside State Park, provides a range of services designed to enhance the camping experience for both RV and tent campers. While it focuses on connecting campers with nature, it also offers essential amenities for comfort and convenience:

• RV Sites: The campground features a significant number of RV sites of varying lengths, some of which offer full or partial hookups (electricity and water).
• Tent Sites: Dedicated tent sites are available, often providing excellent views and a more traditional camping experience.
• Trailer-Dump Station: A convenient trailer sanitary dump station is available within the recreation area, allowing RVers to empty their wastewater tanks.
• Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained restroom facilities are provided, including flush toilets.
• Showers: Modern shower facilities are available, offering hot water for campers to freshen up.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite typically includes a picnic table for outdoor dining and meal preparation.
• Fire Rings: Designated fire rings are found at campsites, allowing for campfires and grilling. Campers should always check for current fire bans or restrictions, especially during dry seasons.
• Boat Launch: A boat launch is available for easy access to Long Lake/Spokane River, catering to motorized boats, canoes, and kayaks.
• Swimming Area: A designated swimming area provides a safe place for campers to enjoy the water.
• Canoe and Kayak Rentals: During peak season (typically May 15 through September 15), canoes and kayaks may be rented at the Nine Mile Recreation Area, providing an accessible way to explore the water.
• Park Store: A park store is often available, offering essential supplies such as wood, ice, and basic camping necessities.
• ADA Accessible Sites: Some campsites are designed to be ADA accessible, ensuring inclusivity for visitors with mobility needs.
• Reservations: While some sites may be first-come, first-served, many sites at Riverside State Park campgrounds, including Nine Mile, can be reserved in advance through the Washington State Parks reservation system.

• Direct Water Access: A primary highlight is the campground's immediate proximity to Long Lake (Lake Spokane) and the Spokane River. This provides direct access for boating, swimming, waterskiing, and fishing, making it a paradise for water enthusiasts.
• Stunning Sunset Views: Many sites, particularly the tent sites, offer incredible views of the sunset over the water, creating a picturesque and memorable camping backdrop.
• Diverse Site Options: With both RV sites (including full/partial hookups) and tent sites, the campground caters to a wide range of camping preferences and equipment.
• Extensive Trail System: As part of Riverside State Park, campers have access to approximately 80 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. This includes sections of the nearly 40-mile-long Spokane River Centennial State Park Trail, offering abundant opportunities for exploration.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Reviews consistently praise the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers, contributing significantly to a comfortable camping experience.
• Iconic Swinging Bridge: The famous swinging bridge within Riverside State Park is a unique attraction, connecting the Bowl and Pitcher area (another part of Riverside State Park) to additional trails and day-use areas. While not directly at Nine Mile, it's a key feature of the larger park system easily accessible to campers.
• Boat Rentals: The convenience of being able to rent canoes and kayaks on-site during the warmer months adds significant value for those who don't own watercraft but wish to explore the lake.
• Family-Friendly Environment: The combination of water activities, open spaces, and accessible facilities makes it an excellent destination for families looking to enjoy the outdoors together.
• Picnic Areas and Shelters: The recreation area includes picnic tables and shelters, some with electricity, ideal for day use or group gatherings.
• Wildlife Viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities for observing local wildlife and birds.
• Park Store: A small store offering wood, ice, and basic supplies provides convenience for campers who may have forgotten essentials or need refills.

For Washington locals looking to plan their visit to Nine Mile Recreation Area Campground, the best way to get information and make reservations is through the Washington State Parks system.

Address: Nine Mile Falls, WA 99026, USA (This is the general geographic area of the park, within Riverside State Park.)

Phone: (509) 468-2286 (This is the general contact number for Riverside State Park, which manages the Nine Mile Recreation Area.)

For reservations, it is highly recommended to use the Washington State Parks official reservation system:

Reservations Phone: (888) CAMPOUT or (888) 226-7688

Website: The official website for Washington State Parks (parks.wa.gov) is the most comprehensive resource. Search for "Riverside State Park" to find detailed information on the Nine Mile Recreation Area, including campsite availability, current rates, park rules, maps, and any alerts or advisories (e.g., fire bans, trail closures).

It is always advisable to check the official website or call ahead, especially for current conditions, reservation availability, and specific details about the amenities and features that might be in operation during your planned visit.

For Washington locals, Nine Mile Recreation Area Campground within Riverside State Park offers an outstanding and accessible opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of their state. Its strategic location near Nine Mile Falls means it's a convenient escape from Spokane and surrounding urban areas, providing a genuine sense of wilderness without requiring extensive travel.

The campground's direct access to Long Lake and the Spokane River is a significant draw, making it a perfect hub for water-based recreation. Whether you enjoy boating, swimming, fishing, or simply relishing spectacular sunsets over the water, this site delivers. The availability of both RV and tent sites, combined with essential amenities like clean restrooms, showers, and a dump station, ensures a comfortable and convenient stay for all types of campers. The option to rent canoes and kayaks on-site further enhances accessibility to the water, making it easy for anyone to enjoy.

Beyond the water, the extensive trail system of Riverside State Park offers endless possibilities for hiking, biking, and exploring the unique landscape. This makes Nine Mile Recreation Area not just a campground, but a gateway to a vast network of outdoor adventures. For Washington residents seeking a well-rounded outdoor experience that combines relaxation, recreation, and the stunning natural environment of the Pacific Northwest, Nine Mile Recreation Area Campground stands out as an ideal and highly recommended local destination.