Echo's location at 640 feet elevation in northeastern Oregon provides campers with close proximity to the Columbia River, where summer temperatures often reach 90°F. RV campgrounds near Echo, Oregon operate throughout the year, making this region accessible for both quick overnight stays and longer explorations along Interstate 84.
What to do
River activities on Columbia River: At Umatilla Marina & RV park, campers can access the marina for fishing and water sports. "The marina has a large parking lot and spots to clean fish. There is a nice park and swimming area for kids," notes one visitor. During summer, the beach area provides a protected spot for paddleboarding and kayaking.
Family movie nights: Columbia Sun RV Resort offers organized activities during summer months. One camper mentioned an unexpected surprise: "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."
Local attractions: Take time to visit nearby historical sites and dams. "The McNary Dam and Fish window are a few miles down the road and well worth a visit (when open)," according to a Umatilla Marina RV Park camper. These educational stops offer insights into regional history and salmon migration patterns.
What campers like
Convenient location for travel breaks: Pilot RV Park in Stanfield serves as a practical stopover. "The staff are friendly and helpful. Had no problems watching a movie with their free WiFi. The Pilot gas station was a convenient place to pick up snacks for the day the next morning," explains one reviewer.
Level sites for easy setup: Finding flat parking at RV campgrounds near Echo provides stress-free arrival. "Level gravel sites with grassy area between sites. Friendly and helpful staff. Clean campground," reports a camper at Umatilla Marina RV Park.
Green spaces: Despite the region's dry climate, several campgrounds maintain grassy areas. "It was pleasant to have green grass in late July since I'm used to the crunchy ground of other camp sites by now. Just move your stuff out of the way of the sprinklers!!!" advised one camper who had to rescue books during a late-night sprinkler activation.
What you should know
Highway noise: Interstate proximity means traffic sounds at many campgrounds. "Some interstate noise but not bad," notes one camper at Umatilla Marina RV Park. Another traveler explains: "During the night, some people camping in their truck would start the engine every hour to keep warm plus the truck traffic over the I-82 bridge was noisy."
Variable bathrooms: Bathroom quality differs significantly between parks. "To say clean doesn't do them justice; the facilities were immaculate," reports a Pilot RV Park visitor. However, at other locations: "Bathrooms weren't clean and the latches and both of the bathrooms doors were broken so you couldn't full close them."
Seasonal swimming options: Summer visitors can access swimming areas at select campgrounds. "There is a nice park and swimming area for kids" at Umatilla Marina, while Columbia Sun RV Resort provides "heated pool and hot tub, game room and more."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots: Wildhorse Resort Casino RV Park caters to families despite its casino connection. "Both the hotel and the RV park have separate swimming pools," mentions a reviewer. This provides children with recreation options during hot summer days.
Multiple entertainment options: For families needing additional activities, Wildhorse Resort has expanded beyond gambling. "Over the years, the casino has added many family activities, including an arcade, a cinema, a food court, and recently a bowling alley with multiple lanes."
Kid-friendly river access: When temperatures rise, water access becomes important. "Beach/cove is very nice and good place to paddle-board or kayak," notes one Umatilla Marina camper. However, another camper cautions about Columbia River safety at one location: "No easy access to the water for kids - don't even attempt to swim here!"
Tips from RVers
Overnight positioning: Driftwood RV Park in Boardman offers practical accommodations. "Small and very green Campground with just what you need as you're passing through. Tables at each spot make it easy to cook and bathrooms are clean," reports a visitor.
Large vehicle accommodation: Many RV parks accommodate substantial rigs. "Pulled In right before 5:00PM on a Sunday and was able to check in before the help went home. Have a 28' class C with a toad. The pull their site was able to accommodate both vehicles with a problem," explains a camper at Umatilla Marina.
Reservation timing: Summer months see increased visitors, particularly near water. "We made reservations and have loved the staff! They are great and helpful," notes a Columbia Sun RV Resort camper. Making advance bookings becomes essential during peak fishing and water recreation season.
