Tent camping near Boardman, Oregon centers around the Columbia River in Oregon's high desert region. The area receives minimal rainfall, averaging only 10 inches annually, creating a stark landscape dominated by sagebrush and basalt rock formations. Campers should prepare for temperature swings of up to 40 degrees between day and night during spring and fall seasons, when most visitors prefer to camp in this region.
What to do
Water activities on the Columbia River: Sand Station Recreation Area offers direct river access for swimming during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F. One visitor noted, "We were here on a hot day, lots of families with kids using the beach and swimming area."
Visit nearby towns: The small city of Umatilla is approximately 20 minutes west of Boardman and provides access to West Park for tent camping. According to one camper, "It's also close to Geneva On The Lake, a kitschy lake resort town that has been around for over 100 years."
Explore local wildlife areas: Within 30 miles of Boardman camping areas, visitors can observe native desert species including coyotes, jackrabbits, and various raptors. Camping at West Park puts you near several wildlife observation points along the Columbia River migration corridor.
What campers like
Shade coverage: In this typically exposed region, West Park offers a rare commodity. A camper shared, "This is a nice, shady campground. It is well-kept and on par with many other state park campgrounds I've been to."
Low evening usage: Despite daytime popularity, Sand Station Recreation Area clears out in evenings, providing relative solitude for overnight tent campers. A visitor observed, "All the day users were gone by 9pm," making it ideal for those seeking quieter nights.
Proximity to water: The immediate access to the Columbia River at Sand Station Recreation Area creates opportunities for cooling off during hot desert days. The tent camping area sits within walking distance to swimming spots, making it convenient for water-focused camping trips.
What you should know
Limited designated sites: Sand Station Recreation Area lacks traditional individual campsites. As one reviewer explained, "There are no designated camp sites except for two gravel group sites with fire rings and picnic tables that you are supposed to have a permit for."
Expect ambient noise: Transportation corridors impact the camping experience in this region. A Sand Station camper warned, "The site is right next to the freeway and train tracks, so is noisy. I used my ear plugs."
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures frequently exceed 95°F, while winter can bring freezing conditions. Spring brings unpredictable winds, sometimes gusting over 30 mph through the Columbia Gorge, affecting tent stability.
Tips for camping with families
Day-use popularity: Sand Station Recreation Area attracts families specifically for its swimming areas rather than overnight stays. A visitor observed, "Lots of families with kids using the beach and swimming area," indicating good swimming conditions for children.
Heat preparation: When tent camping near Boardman with children during summer months, bring portable shade structures as natural shade is minimal. Temperatures can remain above 85°F well into evening hours during July and August.
Water safety awareness: The Columbia River current can be strong, particularly in spring when water levels rise. Keep constant supervision of children near the water, especially at unguarded swimming areas like those at Sand Station Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: West Park offers electric hookups only, without water or sewer connections. RVers should arrive with full water tanks and empty holding tanks, planning for a self-contained stay.
Access considerations: Many camping areas near Boardman have unmarked or poorly maintained access roads. Larger RVs should scout locations before attempting entry, particularly at Sand Station where designated RV spaces are not clearly marked.
Alternative overnight options: When established campgrounds are full, some RVers utilize the Boardman Rest Area off I-84, which permits stays up to 12 hours. This provides a legal alternative for tent camping near Boardman, Oregon when other options are unavailable.