Entry No. 51 — the Spokane file — filed under: after-dark

Spokane Astronomical Society Star Parties at Fishtrap

One of the oldest astronomy clubs in the United States hauls its telescopes out to a stretch of BLM scabland near Fishtrap Lake, timed to the weekend nearest each new moon so the sky goes genuinely black. Members and curious newcomers set up on the channeled basalt and trade views through other people's scopes; the club also lends gear to $25/year members. The drive is almost entirely paved except the last mile or two of gravel.

The move: Pack camp chairs and a thermos, drive out for a new-moon star party, and let a stranger show you Saturn's rings through a backyard telescope.

• 📍 Sprague / Fishtrap Recreation Area
• 💸 $
• ⚡ Low-key
• 🌗 Outdoors

Where: Fishtrap Recreation Area (BLM land), off I-90 ~33 miles SW of Spokane

Hours: Added 2026-06-24 — confirm current hours before you go.

⚠ Seasonal or scheduled — always check before you go.

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Proof: source 1 · source 2 · source 3 · source 4

last checked: 2026-06-24