Spokane Lakes & Rivers

The Spokane River runs right through the heart of the city, but this waterway is just the beginning of the area’s freshwater recreation opportunities. From Spokane, you can head in any direction, including downtown, to take a dip, grab a paddle, or hit the wake. With countless lakes, numerous rivers, very little humidity, and late sunsets, summertime transforms the Spokane area into a freshwater playground.

Lakes

Rivers

Spokane Lakes & Rivers Access Map

Lake Pend Orielle

A paddler’s paradise

Head to Farragut State Park to find paddling peace on the still areas of Lake Pend Oreille. Use the map below to get directions to public access points to lakes in the Spokane area.

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Lakes Near Spokane

Did you know that there are 76 lakes all within a 1-hour drive from Spokane? The lakes and surrounding environs offer a multitude of outdoor recreational opportunities, such as swimming, boating, fishing, cliff jumping, volleyball, hiking, biking, rock climbing, golf, and picnicking. And in the winter, the lakes and rivers become scenic backdrops for snowy adventures such as snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and skiing.

Even though the lakes are not far from the city, many offer a true immersion in pristine nature. You might even have the chance to glimpse some wildlife, such as bald eagles or moose.

Spending the day at the lake? Check the weather forecast before your trip.

Top 3 Lakes Near Spokane

Lake Coeur d’Alene

Coeur d’Alene Lake is one of the largest lakes found in Northern Idaho, located less than an hour away from downtown Spokane. With over 135 miles of shoreline, finding a nice secluded beach along the lake to enjoy with friends and family is never a problem. Surrounded by trails, campgrounds, parks and more, Lake Coeur d'Alene makes for one of the best weekend retreats near Spokane.

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Liberty Lake

Located just 25 minutes from downtown Spokane is Liberty Lake. Known not only for the amazing recreation found around the lake, Liberty Lake is a newly developed community worth exploring. The town of Liberty Lake offers a more relaxed vibe from the hustle and bustle of downtown, with three golf courses, numerous local eateries and must-watch wineries, making it a perfect place to go over the weekend for families and couples.

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Lake Spokane (Long Lake)

Lake Spokane, also known as Long Lake, is a reservoir located on the Spokane River near Riverside State Park. Many refer to this lake as Long Lake, due to the Long Lake Dam which created the reservoir. The dam was built in 1915 and is now a historical landmark in the city. For those looking for a relaxing day boating, fishing, or sitting on the beach near Spokane, Long Lake is the perfect choice.

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Rivers Near Spokane

Carving through the hills around Spokane are many creeks and rivers, the most famous of course is the Spokane River, a 111-mile long tributary of the Columbia River. The river is an important freshwater resource in the Pacific Northwest and a playground for fly fishers, white water rafters, canoeists, kayakers, paddle boarders, and other water sports enthusiasts. No visit to Spokane is complete without a visit to this mighty river or one of its tributaries, such as the Little Spokane River or Latah Creek.

Feel like staying the night? Check out one of the beautiful and tranquil campgrounds along the river, such as Riverside State Park.

Spokane River

When it comes to rivers near Spokane, none are more iconic than the famous Spokane River. Winding its way through the heart of the city, this river is what you see when in Riverfront Park, Spokane Falls and much more. To experience the power of the Spokane River, find the best place to view the falls with our Spokane Falls map.

Spokane Falls Map