Boardman sits along the Columbia River in Oregon's high desert region at an elevation of approximately 300 feet. This area sees average summer temperatures reaching into the 90s with winter lows in the 20s, creating distinct camping seasons. Wind conditions along the Columbia River corridor can be particularly strong year-round, affecting tent setup and outdoor activities at riverside campsites.
What to do
Boating access points: Threemile Canyon Park serves as a popular boat launch location with ample parking for vehicles with trailers. "Lots of boaters using the boat ramp and parking area. Lots of disbursed camping areas and short walking paths," notes Kevin C.
Fishing opportunities: The Columbia River shoreline provides access to various fish species. "Not much here but great if you fish or have a boat. Highway and train near but not overly loud," explains a camper at Threemile Canyon Park.
Wine tasting: At Wine Country RV Park in nearby Prosser, visitors can explore nearly 30 wineries within the immediate area. "Wineries in walking distance a huge plus. Loved Coyote Canyon!" shares Mary F., while another camper mentions "the small town of Prosser has almost 30 wineries and tasting rooms in the immediate area."
Paddleboarding: The calm water areas make ideal conditions for beginners. "The camp host are very friendly and helpful. Very calm water for kayak or paddle board practice!" notes a visitor at Crowe Butte Campground.
What campers like
Affordable pricing: Plymouth Park Campground offers reasonable rates for equipped sites. "$12 a night for water and electricity. Clean area with grass and playground. Some areas appear to be under construction or upgrade," reports Katherine K.
Riverside locations: Many campgrounds offer direct Columbia River access. "Short drive down a gravel road to open area on Lake Umatilla near a boat launch. Several spots on the lake and several across the gravel road—all are level," explains Denise P. about Threemile Canyon Park.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathrooms. At Umatilla Marina & RV park, visitors appreciate the upkeep: "Immaculate bathrooms/showers. Lawn like carpet. Wi-Fi, FHU, Fire pits. Wood available for purchase," shares Lynn G.
Convenient interstate access: Many campgrounds provide easy on/off access for travelers. "Only a mile off I-84 down an easy dirt road, this little site sees some day use for kite surfers, kayakers and fishermen," notes a Threemile Canyon Park visitor.
What you should know
Wind conditions: Strong, consistent wind affects the camping experience throughout the Columbia River corridor. "Cold and consistently windy when we were there. Heard light noise from the highway, barges and train, but nothing disturbing," reports Louie about Threemile Canyon Park.
Train noise: Railroad tracks parallel much of the river, creating periodic noise disturbances. "Would be five stars but train is very loud. Still, has all you could ever need," explains Deanna L. about her stay at Threemile Canyon Park.
Limited shade: Crowe Butte Campground offers tree cover in an otherwise exposed region. "We stopped here because it appeared to be one of the only shading places in the area. This park is full of trees, while the island and surrounding area is dry and barren," reports Marc M.
Summer insects: Yellow jackets can be problematic during warm months. "This spot was pretty nice for a night or two, but can be kinda spooky if you are camping alone. very windy and in the middle of nowhere," shares Katy L. about Threemile Canyon Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "The grand kid loved the playground and trails, the kids liked the campsite and we loved how clean and well maintained everything is," shares a visitor at Crowe Butte Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe various bird species along the river. "Lots of birds also," notes Kevin C. about Threemile Canyon Park, while other campers mention opportunities to observe local wildlife with proper supervision.
Bike-friendly paths: Pioneer RV Park provides access to paved areas. "Also, for runners/walkers/bikers... there is a very long path system that goes from Prosser and along the highway for miles into Sunnyside! It's accessible about 1/2 mile from the park," explains a camper.
Safety considerations: Parents should monitor children near water areas. "The beach was empty but probably gets busy in the summer," notes a visitor to Umatilla Marina & RV Park, suggesting seasonal variations in crowding at swimming areas.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Most campgrounds offer relatively flat parking areas. "The sites are level and paved, easy for any size rig. But there is little to no shade, and the sites have no space between or privacy," reports Jessie L. about Plymouth Park.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites can be found at multiple locations. "Great RV park with amenities close by," notes Bradee A. about Pioneer RV Park, while Marc M. shares that Crowe Butte Campground offers "full hook ups" for only $40.
Big rig access: Some parks accommodate larger vehicles. "Easy in and out for our 32' Class A," reports Katherine K. about Plymouth Park Campground, while another camper notes the "large parking lot" at Threemile Canyon Park that can fit multiple vehicles.
Dump station locations: Not all parks offer on-site dumping facilities. "The price for full hook ups was only $40. The wind whips in this area, but the trees provide shade and a wind block," notes a visitor to Crowe Butte Campground, which includes sewer connections.
Traveler
