Fort Spokane

Star4.12
173 reviews
44150 District Office Lane N., Davenport, WA, 99122
Fort Spokane
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Reservation-only campground at $30/night. Additional fees include $10 for dump station, $10 weekly boat launch, and $60 annual boat launch (paid via pay.gov).
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About this campground

Where the mighty Spokane River meets the expansive waters of Lake Roosevelt, Fort Spokane Campground beckons adventurers with its perfect blend of natural beauty and living history. Towering Ponderosa pines cast their fragrant shade over campsites, while the whispers of the past echo through the preserved grounds of the historic Fort Spokane military outpost. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn, searching for rare birds through morning mist, or exploring the fascinating stories of frontier life, this remarkable destination offers an unforgettable escape into the heart of the Pacific Northwest.
Fort Spokane offers a mix of camping accommodations, including tent camping and RV camping. The campground is reservation-only.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at this remarkably preserved frontier outpost, where Fort Spokane once stood as a crucial peacekeeping force during the turbulent years of westward expansion. The fort served as a vital bridge between Native American communities and arriving settlers, mediating conflicts and fostering understanding in an era of dramatic change. Today, the on-site museum and visitor center bring these stories to life through carefully curated exhibits, original artifacts, and interpretive programs that illuminate the complex tapestry of cultures that shaped this region.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Fort Spokane into an outdoor paradise, with warm, comfortable days perfect for swimming and boating in the crystal-clear waters fed by ancient glacial sources. The crisp, cool lake provides refreshing relief even on the hottest afternoons. As autumn arrives, the campground takes on a quieter charm, though winter visitors should note that freezing temperatures necessitate the seasonal shutdown of drinking water facilities, making this primarily a three-season destination for most campers.
ElevationNestled at the convergence of river and reservoir, the campground sits at a comfortable elevation that offers easy access to water activities while providing gentle terrain for hiking and exploration.
Natural Features and SceneryThe dramatic landscape where forest meets water creates a photographer's dream and wildlife enthusiast's paradise. Majestic Ponderosa pines frame stunning lake vistas, their vanilla-scented bark and towering crowns providing habitat for countless bird species. Lucky visitors might glimpse magnificent moose browsing near the water's edge, elk moving through morning shadows, sure-footed bighorn sheep navigating rocky outcrops, or white-tailed deer grazing in twilight meadows. The diverse ecosystem supports exceptional fishing opportunities, while the surrounding shrublands burst with seasonal wildflowers and provide crucial habitat for the area's remarkable biodiversity.
Geological RegionSituated at the dramatic confluence where the Spokane River surrenders its waters to the vast expanse of Lake Roosevelt, this unique geological setting showcases the power of both natural and human forces. The surrounding landscape tells a story written in stone and water - ancient volcanic basalt flows carved by ice age floods, now softened by groves of aromatic Ponderosa pines and diverse shrubland communities. This meeting of waters creates a rich riparian ecosystem where the geological past meets the vibrant present, offering visitors a front-row seat to the ongoing dialogue between land and water that has shaped the Columbia Basin for millennia.

Campsite details

AccessibilitySeveral campsites are accessible, and there are accessible grills and flush toilets.
Sites SizeThe campsites at Fort Spokane are reported as large and spacious. Some reviewers have commented on the ability to accommodate multiple vehicles.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers a range of privacy levels, with some sites being relatively secluded while others are more exposed.
Total Campsites68 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSeek lakeside sites for better views; avoid sites near steep trails if accessibility is a concern.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
Check-out by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights and a yearly limit of 60 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact number of guests per site not specified.
Groups
Group sites have been converted to day-use-only areas, limiting overnight access for larger groups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutPull-through and back-in sites available; some sites are tight with trees close by.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; drinking water shut off in winter months.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made through recreation.gov or by phone at 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; all sites require prior reservation through recreation.gov.
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee, plus first night's use fee forfeiture for late cancellations. Late cancellations for one-night reservations forfeit the entire amount paid.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Fort Spokane offers a variety of recreational activities, including birding, boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The former guard house has been converted into a museum and visitor center, providing opportunities to learn about the area's history.
Hiking
There are several hiking trails around Fort Spokane, including the interpretive trails on the grounds of the historic Fort Spokane site. Trails such as the Bluff Trail offer scenic views, and shorter trails provide opportunities for exploring the shoreline and local wildlife.
Fishing
Lake Roosevelt offers year-round fishing, with species such as walleye, bass, rainbow trout, and salmon. The shoreline does not typically freeze in winter, making fishing accessible year-round.
Swimming
Swimming is available in designated areas across the highway. The swimming area offers limited shade, as noted by reviewers.
Boating
Boating is a popular activity at Fort Spokane, with a boat launch available year-round. Weekly and annual permits are required for boat launches, and these can be purchased online or at a vendor.
Wildlife viewing
The campground and surrounding areas are rich in wildlife, including moose, elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and various bird species such as peregrine falcons, blue herons, bald eagles, and osprey. Hawk Creek is noted as a prime birding location nearby.
Beach activities
Beach activities are supported in designated areas near the campground, including sunbathing and picnicking.
Cultural and Educational Programs
The Fort Spokane Visitor Center and Museum hosts seasonal interpretive programs that explore military history and Indian boarding school topics.
Winter Activities
Winter activities include fishing and goose hunting. The campground is accessible even during snow conditions, as some campsites are plowed.
Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are possible on Lake Roosevelt, although there are no facilities dedicated specifically to these activities.

Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Fires allowed in designated fire rings year-round, except during critical fire risks as indicated by Washington State Department of Natural Resources.
  • Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Hazards

General hazardsPotential fire hazards during dry seasons; steep trails to docks for boating access.
Active alertsPartial fire restrictions implemented from June 13, 2025. Hawk Creek restrictions reducing road access to one lane.

Weather forecast

92
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Humidity: 10%

Very dry conditions, stay hydrated

Wind: 5.5 mph

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Overcast
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Temperature Trends

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Weather Summaries

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Emergency Services

Nearest hospital and emergency services are located in Davenport, approximately 24 miles away.

Good to know

Peak season datesMarch 15 - September 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are limited. Some reviewers have noted the lack of dumpsters during certain seasons, which they found inconvenient.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along Lake Roosevelt with direct water access.
Common complaintsComplaints about generator noise, lack of enforcement of quiet hours, and issues with reservation system. Some reports of unruly campers.
HostHosts available seasonally; mixed feedback on hospitality and enforcement of rules.

Campground Map

44150 District Office Lane N., Davenport, WA, 99122
Driving directionsTake State Highway 2 west of Spokane for 32 miles. Turn north on State Highway 25 at the town of Davenport and travel 24 miles. Follow the signs to the campground.
Accessible via State Highway 2 and State Highway 25; the campground is located near Davenport and offers paved roads for easy access.
Nearby places
Davenport: 24 miles, Spokane: 32 miles.
Nearby supplies
Convenience store and gas station nearby
additional supplies available in Davenport.

Camper Reviews

4.1
173 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Fort Spokane is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Fort Spokane are mixed, with praise for its scenic location, cleanliness, and spacious campsites. However, complaints include issues with noise from generators, lack of enforcement of quiet hours, and limited amenities like showers and trash disposal.
Review Summaries
Based on 173 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects noted by reviewers include the campground's quiet atmosphere during weekdays, clean restrooms, friendly camp hosts, and beautiful surroundings. Many users appreciated the proximity...
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Based on 173 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include noise from generators, lack of enforcement of quiet hours, limited trash disposal facilities, absence of showers, and the reservation-only system which some users found...
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Based on 173 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips from reviewers suggest booking reservations well in advance due to limited availability, choosing campsites closer to the lake for better leveling and views, and bringing soap and sanitizer as...
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Based on 173 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews indicate that weekdays are quieter and more pleasant compared to weekends, which can be crowded and noisy. Winter camping offers solitude but requires preparation for snow and cold weather...
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Based on 173 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The bathrooms were the CLEANEST I have ever seen." "The campground is nice with spacious campsites." "Clean and very friendly rangers." "The Fort Spokane sites and all facilities are well kept and...
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Based on 173 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews highlight campsite 038 as problematic during rain due to poor drainage, while sites closer to the lake are praised for their leveling and views. Group sites have been criticized...
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Based on 173 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility reviews note the presence of accessible campsites and facilities, but some users found certain trails and parking areas challenging.
Based on 173 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed at Fort Spokane, but reviewers noted complaints about barking dogs and enforcement of pet-related rules.
Based on 173 reviews

Last updated August 10, 2025

Campgrounds
Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area
Fort Spokane