Cabin camping options near Boardman, Oregon provide shelter from eastern Oregon's continental climate, where summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F and winter lows can drop below freezing. The area sits at approximately 300 feet elevation along the Columbia River, with surrounding terrain transitioning from riverside riparian zones to sagebrush steppe. Cabin accommodations range from basic structures to facilities with modern amenities depending on location.
What to do
Fishing access: At Lone Tree Campground — Cottonwood Canyon State Park, the John Day River provides excellent fishing opportunities. "The John Day River is easily accessible and swimmable just down from the campsite. It's great to fish, float, or hike the trails nearby," notes camper Shawna M.
Trail exploration: Several miles of hiking paths accommodate various skill levels. "There are some really great hikes you can do nearby. We did the Pinnacles Trail and Lost Corral Trail. Both of these hikes were 'moderate/difficult.' They were both a little over 8 miles roundtrip. The scenery is gorgeous on both hikes- you follow along the river," reports Julie P.
Stargazing: The open skies provide exceptional night viewing opportunities. "The stargazing is really nice and we saw some interesting birds and lizards around the campsite," mentions Irene L. about her experience at Cottonwood Canyon.
Wildlife observation: The varied terrain supports diverse wildlife. "The evening I arrived was the night before a full moon, so the setting sun over the canyon and the waxing moon gave a lovely glow to the sights... In the morning, I awoke just before dawn when my dog sat bolt upright and intently watched with me as an elk cow walked through our campsite," describes Shawn M.
What campers like
Riverside access: Brooks Memorial State Park Campground provides water access with nearby trails. "There were a bunch of trails that ran throughout the park that provided a nice alternative to get to the other side of the park or climb to the top of the hill near the power lines," notes Ashley B.
Privacy between sites: Some locations offer more secluded spots. "The roads are gravel and wind their way up a steep hill, but the sites provide decent privacy. Each site has a picnic table and fire pit," explains Hallie about Cutsforth Park Campground.
Quiet atmosphere: Many cabins sit in peaceful settings. "We loved the serenity of being away from town in the woods where all we could hear were the birds and the creek nearby," shares Hallie about Cutsforth Park.
Solar charging stations: Some cabins offer modern conveniences despite remote settings. "We brought our own bikes but if you don't bring yours, they offered loaner bikes and there were little bike workstations on the grounds. The tent sites each had a solar panel to provide electricity for charging the essentials," mentions Caitlin S.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Wind can impact camping comfort in certain locations. "Be prepared for some wind due to topography," advises Erik H. about Cottonwood Canyon.
Highway noise: Some cabin locations experience traffic noise. "Day and night, semis speed past the state park on either a downhill straight away or an uphill straight away, regardless it sounds like a freight train or military landing pad all night/day long. It was so loud you had to stop talking until the semi passed," warns Ashley B. about Brooks Memorial.
Wildlife precautions: Small animals may visit campsites. "Be careful about leaving food out, zipping your tent up, leaving car doors open. The mice were pretty bad and came out at night driving my dog crazy," cautions Ashley B.
Seasonal availability: Check operating dates before planning trips. Beach RV Park remains open year-round, while Cutsforth Park operates May through November only.
Tips for camping with families
Pet-friendly options: Most cabin locations accommodate four-legged family members. "Pet friendly! Including a fenced in dog area (about an acre) and doggie poo bags readily available," reports Caitlin S. about Cottonwood Canyon.
Educational opportunities: Historical elements engage children. "The grounds must have been a farm originally and the campground designers did an awesome job of using the existing structures to add to the rustic nature and maintain the land's historic relevance," notes Caitlin S.
Budget considerations: Klickitat View Cabin offers affordable accommodation with basic amenities including drinking water and toilets for families watching expenses.
Supply planning: Most cabin locations require bringing specific items. "There are no stores nearby, so get your groceries in Goldendale!" advises Susan L. about Brooks Memorial State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose locations based on specific needs. "Great site off the freeway- but because it's close, you'll hear cars all night. We were the only tent campers so we had a bunch of space. Fire rings and picnic tables at every site as well as a bunch of firewood," reports Alissa K. about Beach RV Park.
Host assistance: Camp hosts often provide valuable support. "Park was full and office closed when we pulled in and manager Katie saw us drive through and flagged us down. She made space for us and even loaned a 30 to 50 amp adapter so we could hook up our 30 amp plug," shares Bud S. about his experience at Beach RV Park.
Shower facilities: Quality varies between locations. "Showers were nicer than any other on our 2800 mile trip from Arkansas (11 days on road so far) and park is quiet and shaded right by the water," notes Bud S.