Riverside State Park, a sprawling expanse of lush greenery and winding waterways, invites anglers from all walks of life to immerse themselves in its aquatic treasures. Just a short drive from Spok...
Riverside State Park is a vast natural reserve in eastern Washington, offering diverse landscapes and a wide array of outdoor activities along the Spokane River.
Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Riverside State Park, located near Spokane, Washington, is one of the largest state parks in the region, covering approximately 11,162 acres. The park is characterized by its diverse landscapes, which include thick wooded areas, rocky formations, and the flowing waters of the Spokane River. This combination makes it a haven for a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The park's Bowl and Pitcher area is especially popular, known for its unique basalt rock formations and scenic suspension bridge. Riverside State Park also carries historical significance with the Spokane House Interpretive Center, which highlights the region's fur trading history. An extensive network of trails provides ample opportunities for exploration, and the Little Spokane River Natural Area offers a more tranquil setting for fishing and wildlife viewing. Visitors can engage in a wide range of activities while soaking in the natural beauty and learning about the area's rich history.
Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations
Notable Destinations Near Riverside State Park
Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.
Key Wilderness Highlights
✦ Bowl and Pitcher area with its iconic basalt rock formations✦ Diverse ecosystems, including riparian habitats with abundant wildlife✦ Spokane House Interpretive Center providing historical insights✦ Little Spokane River Natural Area for serene fishing and birdwatching
Wilderness Visuals & Gallery
Visual Guide to Riverside State Park
Wilderness Recreation
Outdoor Adventures in Riverside State Park
Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.
Activity Field GuideRiverside State Park
Fishing in Riverside State Park
Experience the Thrill of Fishing at Riverside State Park, WA
Riverside State Park, a sprawling expanse of lush greenery and winding waterways, invites anglers from all walks of life to immerse themselves in its aquatic treasures. Just a short drive from Spokane, this park is a sanctuary for both seasoned fishing veterans and eager beginners, promising exhilarating encounters and moments of serene reflection among nature's beauty.
As dawn breaks, soft golden light spills across the Spokane River, illuminating the lush banks that are alive with the sounds of chirping birds and the gentle rustling of leaves. The park’s rich ecosystem supports a variety of fish species, making it a prime destination for those looking to cast their lines. Whether your preference lies in fly fishing, spin casting, or simply enjoying a leisurely day by the water, Riverside State Park caters to every angler’s whims.
Covering over 10,000 acres, the park features several accessible spots along the river, each offering something unique. Prepare to set foot on well-maintained trails that lead you through dense forests, where the scent of pine lingers in the air, brushing against your senses as you make your way to the water. The Spokane River, with its serene currents and rocky outcroppings, is an alluring backdrop for your fishing adventure.
The river here is home to an array of fish, including trout and smallmouth bass, beckoning anglers to discover their pristine habitats. Before you cast off, gear up with the right equipment—spinning rods and lighter tackle work well for a varied catch, while fly rods are perfect for those looking to dance their lures across the surface of the water. Remember that local regulations apply, so it’s wise to check the current fishing rules or obtain a fishing license.
Best times to visit? Early morning or late afternoon when fish are most active. During these hours, the scene is painted with the quiet excitement of life awakening or settling down. Don’t forget to bring along a cooler filled with snacks and plenty of water to stay hydrated, as the sun can quickly drain your energy on warmer days.
For those with a mind for exploration beyond the rod and reel, the park offers a plethora of activities that reward your sense of adventure. Consider hiking the nearby trails that rise gently alongside the river, unveiling panoramic views that will leave you breathless. Each step brings you deeper into the heart of nature, where the crystal-clear waters seem to dance to their own rhythm, compelling you to stop and appreciate the tranquil surrounds.
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, too. The park buzzes with life—deer can often be seen grazing near the water’s edge, while eagles soar overhead, their keen eyes always on the hunt. It is moments like these that forge a connection between you and the great outdoors, creating memories that stay etched in your heart long after the lines are reeled in.
As you journey through Riverside State Park, take the time to breathe deeply and soak in the environment around you. Each cast into the sparkling waters is not just a chance of catching fish, but an opportunity to embrace the thrill of nature and community. The park serves as a testament to the ideal outdoor experience: a place where adventure meets peace, and where every ripple in the water beckons you to come back for more.
So, whether it’s your first time fishing or you’re a seasoned angler hoping to land the catch of the day, Riverside State Park awaits you with open arms, ready to enrich your experience. Grab your gear, plan your visit, and let the adventure begin!
Other Available Activity Guides in Riverside State Park:
The Ranger Station
Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning
Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Riverside State Park.
Passes & Fees
Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes
A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access.
Wilderness Checklist
Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays
Camping & Overnight Stays in Riverside State Park
Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.
Bowl and Pitcher Campground
Located near the scenic suspension bridge, this campground offers powered sites and convenient river access.
Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.
⌖ 7.52 miles
Gateway Basecamp
Airway Heights, Washington
Airway Heights is a quiet town near Spokane that serves as a gateway to hiking, biking, and winter sports in Mount Spokane State Park. Enjoy peaceful trails, bird watching, and easy access to protected natural areas year-round.
Spring through Fall for hiking and biking; Winter for snow sports
Spokane Valley offers outdoor lovers easy access to hiking, biking, and paddling amid scenic river corridors and foothills. Close to Mount Spokane, it’s a go-to base for year-round outdoor adventure in Eastern Washington.
Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling, Winter for snow sports
Greenacres, Washington, offers a quiet gateway for outdoor fun with nearby lakes and trails ideal for hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing. A relaxed spot perfect for exploring Eastern Washington’s natural beauty.
Cheney, Washington offers outdoor lovers a calm, low-key destination with great hiking, paddling, and wildlife viewing nearby. Its scenic trails, lakes, and protected areas make it a relaxing basecamp for nature enthusiasts.
Liberty Lake, Washington, is a lively lakeside town where paddling, hiking, and biking blend with natural beauty. Its regional park, nearby conservation areas, and accessible trails make it a year-round destination for outdoor lovers.
Reardan, WA is a quiet small town offering easy access to paddling, fishing, and birdwatching in eastern Washington’s natural lakes and wildlife refuges. Ideal for travelers seeking peaceful outdoor escapes.
Fun Unlimited, LLC offers hourly jet ski rentals on Lake Coeur d’Alene with 2-, 4- and 8-hour options, guided toward highlights such as Harrison and the Chain of Lakes.
Flexible hourly-to-weekly stand up paddleboard rentals in Post Falls that include a mini lesson, paddle and PFD, with early-morning and evening on-site discounts.
Float through stunning Inland Northwest scenery on a relaxing two-hour trip with Wiley E. Waters. Perfect for all ages, this float offers fun, stunning views, and a chance to unwind on the Spokane River.
Guided TourStarting at $60 | About 2 Hours | Gentle Rapids | Ages 3+Certified Outfitter
A guided 2–3 hour rafting adventure on the Lower Spokane River—designed for groups of 10+—that runs two named Class III rapids and includes equipment, drinks and shuttle service.
Discover how Escape 406 turns outdoor space into a mysterious Wonderland with immersive puzzle adventures. A perfect activity for teams and outdoor enthusiasts alike!
Guided TourAlice is missing. Alice is gone. Find her, oh find her. Or they’ll blame you by dawn…Certified Outfitter
Discover a well-equipped campground along Elk River that combines comfort with wilderness. Perfect for fishing, kayaking, and nature-loving campers, Trestle Park provides a scenic base to enjoy the outdoors.
LodgingStarting at $40 | 1-7 nights | Includes 2 people | Up to 10 people per siteCertified Outfitter
Join a private float trip on the beautiful Spokane River—perfect for large groups seeking peaceful waters and scenic views. Enjoy guided games, all-inclusive gear, and a relaxing river escape in Washington.
Water ActivitiesStarting at $58.50 | About 2 Hours | Gentle RapidsCertified Outfitter
A 2–3 hour guided run from minutes outside downtown Spokane through Riverside State Park, navigating two Class III rapids with swimming stops and wildlife viewing—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
A focused, one-hour Winter Draft sleigh experience around a Spokane ranch with toboggans, festive music, a post-ride barrel fire and photo options—this guide covers what to expect and how to prepare.
Private, two-hour trail rides on draft horses with an optional decorated western table and barrel fire—this guide lays out what to expect, what to bring, and the operator rules to know before you book.
A practical guide to Eagles Nest Camp and Canoe’s Waterfront Primitive Campsite—waterfront tent sites with walking access to two swim beaches, essential amenities, and flexible stays up to six nights.