South shore boat in camp site

For adventurous locals in Washington state, the South Shore Boat-In Camp Site on Long Lake offers a truly distinctive and secluded camping experience. This unique primitive campground, overseen by Riverside State Park personnel and owned by Avista Corp., is not your typical drive-up destination. Instead, it invites campers to arrive by boat or bicycle, promising a more immersive and quiet escape into the natural beauty of the Long Lake area, which is essentially Lake Spokane. This exclusivity ensures a more tranquil atmosphere, perfect for those seeking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and truly embrace the outdoors.

The allure of South Shore Boat-In Camp Site lies in its simplicity and its deliberate inaccessibility by car. This design choice fosters a deeper connection with the environment, encouraging a sense of adventure from the moment you begin your journey. With its single designated camping spot, complete with essential amenities like a fire pit, picnic table, and an outhouse, it’s ideal for individuals or small groups desiring privacy and a back-to-basics camping experience. The sandy trail leading to the site, coupled with the steep access from the shoreline for boats, adds to the unique charm and sense of discovery that awaits at this special Washington campground. It's a testament to the diverse camping opportunities available within our beautiful state, providing an option for those who seek more than just a standard campsite.

The South Shore Boat-In Camp Site is located at R653+HQ, Long Lake, WA 99013, USA. This places the campground on the southern shore of Long Lake, which is also widely known as Lake Spokane. Long Lake is a reservoir formed by the Long Lake Dam on the Spokane River, situated within the broader context of Riverside State Park’s management area. The location is in Spokane County, not far from the city of Spokane, but far enough to offer a true sense of natural escape.

Access to the South Shore Boat-In Camp Site is a key distinguishing feature. As its name suggests, it is primarily a "boat-in" or "bike-in" camp. For those arriving by boat, a steep trail from the shoreline provides access to the campsite. This means you'll need to launch your boat at a nearby public boat launch on Long Lake and then navigate to the campsite's shoreline access point. For cyclists and hikers, a sandy trail leads to the campground. The parking lot at the trailhead on Long Lake Road is designated for day-use only, and a Discover Pass is required for parking there. This system ensures that the campground maintains its secluded and primitive nature, accessible only to those willing to make the extra effort by water or trail. This controlled access contributes significantly to the peaceful ambiance and minimizes crowds, enhancing the natural experience for visitors.

The South Shore Boat-In Camp Site offers a minimalist yet functional set of services, focusing on providing essential comforts for a primitive outdoor experience while maintaining the natural integrity of the site.

• Designated Campsite: There is one designated camping spot available, ensuring exclusivity and privacy for the occupying party.
• Fire Pit: The campsite includes a designated fire pit, allowing campers to enjoy traditional campfires (always check for current burn bans and restrictions).
• Picnic Table: A picnic table is provided at the site, offering a convenient surface for meals, games, and gathering.
• Outhouse: An outhouse is available on-site, providing basic restroom facilities.
• Boat-in Access: The site is specifically designed for boat-in access, with a steep trail from the shoreline leading directly to the camp, catering to watercraft users.
• Bike-in Access: A sandy trail provides bike-in access from the land side, appealing to cyclists who enjoy off-road adventures.
• Trail Access: The campground offers direct access to the broader trail system, including a side trail that leads to the Muley Canyon trailhead further east, enhancing hiking and biking opportunities.
• Managed by State Park: The site is overseen by Riverside State Park personnel, ensuring adherence to park regulations and maintenance standards (though reviews suggest variable upkeep of facilities).
• Owned by Avista Corp.: The land is owned by Avista Corp., a utility company, which often means an emphasis on responsible land use around hydroelectric projects.
• No Vehicular Access to Site: Importantly, there is no direct vehicular access to the campsite itself, preserving its secluded and tranquil nature.

The South Shore Boat-In Camp Site on Long Lake boasts several compelling features and highlights that make it a distinctive choice for Washington's outdoor adventurers:

• Exclusive Boat-In/Bike-In Accessibility: This is arguably its most defining feature. The requirement to arrive by boat or bike significantly limits crowds, creating a more private and serene camping environment that is highly valued by those seeking solitude in nature.
• Secluded Single Campsite: Having only one designated camping spot ensures ultimate privacy and a truly undisturbed experience, perfect for a romantic getaway or a quiet family trip.
• Scenic Long Lake (Lake Spokane) Setting: The campground is set against the backdrop of Long Lake, offering beautiful waterfront views and opportunities for swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating right from your camp. The lake itself is a long reservoir with scenic basalt cliffs and forested shores.
• Proximity to Riverside State Park: While managed by Riverside State Park, its location offers a different experience than the main park campgrounds. However, it still benefits from the park's oversight and proximity to a larger network of trails and recreational areas.
• Access to Muley Canyon Trailhead: The direct access to a side trail leading to the Muley Canyon trailhead opens up possibilities for extended hiking and mountain biking adventures within the diverse terrain of the area.
• Unique Water Activities: Being on Long Lake, campers can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and fishing right from their base, with the added adventure of boating directly to their site.
• "Discover Pass" Required for Parking: While a minor detail, the requirement for a Discover Pass for day-use parking at the trailhead highlights its integration into the broader Washington State Parks system, supporting the maintenance of these natural treasures.
• Primitive Charm: For those who enjoy roughing it slightly, the lack of extensive amenities emphasizes a focus on natural immersion, allowing campers to truly appreciate the simple joys of outdoor living.

As the South Shore Boat-In Camp Site is a primitive site managed by Riverside State Park, direct contact might be through the park's main office. While there isn't a specific phone number for the South Shore campsite itself, inquiries about the site, conditions, or Discover Pass requirements can be directed to the main park office.

Address: R653+HQ, Long Lake, WA 99013, USA

For general information about Riverside State Park and its facilities, including the South Shore Boat-In Camp Site, it is recommended to visit the official Washington State Parks website or contact the main Riverside State Park office.

Riverside State Park Contact Information (General):

Phone: While a specific direct number for this primitive site isn't typically listed, the general phone number for Riverside State Park would be the best point of contact. (You would typically find this on the WA State Parks website.)

It's always best to verify current conditions, any temporary closures, or specific rules regarding primitive sites before planning your trip.

For Washington locals, the South Shore Boat-In Camp Site offers an unparalleled opportunity for a truly unique and intimate outdoor experience. Its distinctive access method—requiring arrival by boat or bike—immediately sets it apart from typical campgrounds, providing a sense of adventure and exclusivity right in our own backyard. For those residing in Spokane and surrounding areas, Long Lake is a familiar and cherished resource, making this campsite an easily accessible yet deeply rewarding escape.

This site is perfect for Washingtonians who own a small boat, kayak, or paddleboard and are looking for a secluded spot to spend a night or two on the water. Cyclists and hikers seeking a challenging yet rewarding journey to their campsite will also find it exceptionally appealing. It encourages a deeper appreciation for the natural landscape of Eastern Washington, from the tranquil waters of Long Lake to the rugged trails that wind through the area, including connections to Muley Canyon. It’s a place where one can truly unplug, enjoy the quiet sounds of nature, and witness the stunning sunsets over the lake without the distractions of a crowded campground. For Washingtonians looking for a memorable, off-the-beaten-path camping adventure that emphasizes self-reliance and natural beauty, the South Shore Boat-In Camp Site on Long Lake is an ideal choice, embodying the adventurous spirit of our state.