Riverside State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Riverside State Park |
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Park area called the Bowl and Pitcher
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 Riverside State Park
Location in Washington (state)
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| Location | Spokane, Washington, United States |
| Area | 11,162 acres (45.17 km2) |
| Elevation | 1,857 ft (566 m) |
| Established | 1933 |
| Operator | Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission |
| Website | Riverside State Park |
Riverside State Park is a cool place to visit in Washington State. It's a state park located about 9 miles (14 km) northwest of the city of Spokane. This park protects a huge area of 11,162 acres (4,517 ha) of forest land. It stretches along the Spokane and Little Spokane rivers.
Riverside State Park is the second largest state park in Washington. Only Mount Spokane State Park is bigger! It's a very popular spot for people living nearby to have fun outdoors.
Contents
Park History: How it Started
This amazing park began in 1933 and 1934. That's when different pieces of land were given to the state. The park was then built by a group called the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). The CCC was a program during the Great Depression. It helped young men find jobs building parks and other public works.
You can still see their hard work today! Look for buildings and structures at the Bowl and Pitcher area. These include a cool suspension bridge, a kitchen shelter, and even the park's office. The CCC workers also built rock walls and parts of the Aubrey White Parkway road. They also made trails throughout the park.
What You Can See and Do
Riverside State Park has many different areas to explore. Each one offers something special!
Bowl and Pitcher Area
The Bowl and Pitcher is one of the most famous parts of the park. It's known for its unique rock formations and the fun suspension bridge. This area also has a campground where you can stay overnight.
Nine Mile Recreation Area
This area is another great spot for outdoor fun. It's perfect for launching boats onto the river. There's also a campground here if you want to spend more time exploring.
Little Spokane River Natural Area
If you love nature, this quiet area is for you. It's a peaceful place to see wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the river.
Off-Road Vehicle Park
For those who like adventure, there's a 600-acre (240 ha) park just for off-road vehicles. It's a great place to ride ATVs and have some thrilling fun.
Spokane River Centennial Trail
A part of the long 37-mile-long (60 km) Spokane River Centennial Trail runs through the park. This trail is perfect for biking, hiking, or just taking a long walk.
Spokane House Interpretive Center
The Spokane House Interpretive Center is a museum inside the park. It teaches you about the history of the area. You can learn about the Spokane Indians, who lived here long ago. You'll also discover stories about early pioneers, fur trappers, and traders. The center also shares information about the historic Spokane House fur trading post.
Fun Activities at the Park
Riverside State Park offers tons of activities for everyone!
- Camping: You can camp at the Bowl and Pitcher, Nine Mile Recreation Area, and Lake Spokane campgrounds.
- The Bowl and Pitcher campground has 16 standard campsites and 16 with partial hookups.
- The Nine Mile campground has 3 tent sites, 17 partial hookup sites, and 4 full hookup sites.
- The Lake Spokane campground has 11 simple, or "primitive," campsites.
- There are also two group campsites at the Bowl and Pitcher. These can fit 40 to 60 tent campers!
- Water Fun: Go fishing, swimming, boating, canoeing, or kayaking in the rivers.
- Nature Watching: Enjoy bird watching and looking for other wildlife.
- Trails: Explore the park on foot by hiking, or ride your bike on the many trails.
- Horseback Riding: There are special trails just for horses.
- Rock Climbing: If you like a challenge, you can even go rock climbing here.
- ATV Riding: Ride your ATV in the special off-road vehicle park.
Boat launches are available at the Nine Mile Recreation Area and the Lake Spokane campground. So, bring your boat and get ready for some fun on the water!
Images for kids
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The suspension bridge in the park
