Boardman, Oregon camping options sit along the Columbia River at about 300 feet elevation. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F, while winters are mild but can bring occasional snow and ice. Wind conditions can be significant year-round, affecting both tent stability and comfort levels at exposed campsites.
What to do
Kayaking and paddle sports: Three Mile Canyon Park offers calm water access ideal for beginners. "The water was super calm, so kayaking was very enjoyable" notes one visitor to Crow Butte Park.
Hiking options: Explore the trails that circle Crow Butte Park. "Trails over and around the butte (no rattlesnakes seen, though signs warned about them) provide great vistas of the Columbia River," writes a camper who appreciated the landscape.
Biking on riverside trails: Boardman Marina Park features a 2.8-mile trail along the river. "There is a great 2.8 mile trail for biking and/or walking along the river. The trail has a great little microbrewery that serves pizza so bring your wallet!"
Wildlife viewing: Morning frog spotting has become popular at Crow Butte Park. One camper mentioned, "The kids loved the playground, the bike trails and the frogs." Bring binoculars for bird watching along the Columbia River.
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: Threemile Canyon Park offers good separation between camping areas. A visitor noted, "Only a mile off I-84 down an easy dirt road, this little site sees some day use for kite surfers, kayakers and fishermen, but also has plenty of space for a number of RVs to set up camp, just feet above the Columbia."
Clean facilities: Plymouth Park Campground maintains well-kept amenities. "This is a clean and friendly park. Water was potable. Price is right for hookups," shares a recent visitor.
Reasonable pricing: Many campgrounds offer affordable options compared to other regions. At Plymouth Park Campground, a camper reported, "$12 a night for water and electricity. Clean area with grass and playground. Some areas appear to be under construction or upgrade."
Good cell reception: Technology-dependent campers can stay connected at Threemile Canyon Park. One reviewer mentioned, "Had 2 of 4 bars on AT&T. This site is also known as Threemile Canyon Park according to the signs from the highway."
What you should know
Wind conditions: High winds affect most campgrounds in the area. A Plymouth Park Campground visitor advised, "If you think you're camping on the Columbia River, you're not. It's close, but you can't get there from here—walking anyways."
Wildlife encounters: Insects and reptiles are common in summer months. One camper at Plymouth Park Campground warned, "When you arrive a sweet lady warns you about the snakes. But what she failed to warn us about is the swarming yellow jackets. My boyfriend spent the entire evening fighting them away from the van."
Train noise: Railroad tracks parallel the Columbia River. A Threemile Canyon Park visitor observed, "Heard light noise from the highway, barges and train, but nothing disturbing."
Seasonal closures: Check for winterization that may affect water hookups. A Boardman Marina Park visitor noted, "Be advised that if you go in the off-season the spots are first come first served. We were disappointed to find there was no water hookup as they had already winterized."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Umatilla Marina & RV Park offers recreational areas for children. A visitor mentioned, "The marina has a large parking lot and spots to clean fish. There is a nice park and swimming area for kids."
Swimming spots: Certain coves provide safer water access. "It's nice down by the water you can swim or fish. It also has a nice view of the sunset," notes a camper at Umatilla Marina & RV Park.
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer special events during summer. One family at Umatilla Marina & RV Park shared, "Fun experience: the field next to the campground set up a outdoor movie night with free popcorn. The kids loved it and it was a great memory maker."
Safety considerations: Watch for uneven terrain and wildlife. At Crow Butte Park, a visitor warned, "So… many… spiders! I don't think I've ever seen so many spiders in one place. There are really cute baby frogs hopping all around in the mornings though which was very cute. Just watch your step."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require extra effort for stabilization. At Boardman Marina Park, a visitor warned, "Some of the pull throughs do have quite a bit of pavement buckling, so it can make leveling a bit more work."
Dump station accessibility: Consider positioning when selecting your site. "In site 45, I think the dump ended up being almost uphill from my trailer, so it was an interesting challenge to get my tanks emptied," reported a Driftwood RV Park visitor.
Electrical considerations: Plymouth Park campers should ask about hookup specifics. "Small and very green Campground with just what you need as you're passing through. The caretakers of the property are available for questions and take great care of the place."
Overnight options: For quick stops while traveling through, several parks offer convenient access. "We just needed a place to park that was on our route home. They were very friendly and set us up with a primitive site (which is what we wanted)," shares a visitor to Umatilla Marina & RV Park.
