Campgrounds near Hermiston, Oregon typically provide access points to the Blue Mountains and Columbia River recreational areas. The region features a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Equestrian facilities remain limited in the immediate vicinity, though surrounding areas offer trail access and basic accommodations for those traveling with horses.
What to do
Wildlife viewing along the Columbia River: At Crow Butte Park, visitors can observe riverside wildlife while hiking the park's trails. "Trails over and around the butte (no rattlesnakes seen, though signs warned about them) provide great vistas of the Columbia River," notes Patrick M., who recommends exploring the sandy butte dominating the small island where the campground is located.
Water recreation: Kayaking options exist near Crow Butte Park where calm waters make paddling accessible. According to Denise B., "The water was super calm, so kayaking was very enjoyable. The grounds were clean and green."
Hiking at Coalmine Hill: The trailhead offers both short and extended hiking options. "There is a trail for either a long hike or a short one. With two littles, we did the short one which around trip was under 3 miles," reports Ashton B., adding that continuing further offers "definitely an uphill climb" with potentially "gorgeous views on top."
What campers like
Shade coverage: Crow Butte Park receives consistent praise for its tree coverage. Fred F. highlights this feature, stating it offers "River access and plenty of shade" making it "Great for weekend getaways from Tri Cities." The shade trees provide relief during hot summer months.
Educational programming: Some area campgrounds offer ranger-led activities. Jenny M. recalls from Emigrant Springs State Heritage Area: "The park rangers were so nice. They had informed classes about animals in the forest. The Jr rangers program for the children was wonderful and hands on."
Clean facilities: Cutsforth Park Campground maintains well-kept amenities for visitors. Hallie notes, "The sites provide decent privacy. Each site has a picnic table and fire pit. Pit toilets are located in one of the loops, but there are bathrooms with showers near the host site."
What you should know
Highway noise impacts: Traffic noise significantly affects some camping experiences. At Emigrant Springs, sparkleblaster S. reports, "The road noise is extreme; very loud. If you can get past that the place is really sweet."
Variable pricing structures: Campgrounds implement different fee systems. For Crow Butte Park, Derek R. explains, "$40.00 a night for RV $30.00 for veterans $20.00 for tents."
Limited equestrian facilities: Horse campgrounds near Hermiston, Oregon remain scarce. While Coalmine Hill offers some equestrian accommodation with "a wooden pin to be able to keep horses safe and secure overnight" according to Ashton B., dedicated horse facilities are minimal throughout the area.
Seasonal access restrictions: Many campgrounds operate seasonally. Cutsforth Park Campground is open May to November while Emigrant Springs State Heritage Area operates from May 1 to October 21.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access: Crow Butte Park offers water recreation for children. Ben B. mentions the campground has a "fun little park for the kids and nice little beach for swimming."
Morning wildlife viewing: Look for small amphibians at riverside campgrounds. Taleah U. shares, "There are really cute baby frogs hopping all around in the mornings though which was very cute. Just watch your step."
Bug preparation: Pack insect repellent, especially for Columbia River locations. One camper warns about Crow Butte Park: "I don't think I've ever seen so many spiders in one place. In the morning, I had spiders in each of my door handles, my mirrors..." Mosquito protection is particularly important at wooded sites like Coalmine Hill.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for noise reduction: At Emigrant Springs, choose sites furthest from the highway. Ryan C. advises, "Yes, you can hear the freeway from the campground - so it may not be recommended for tent campers," suggesting RVs provide better sound insulation.
Hookup availability: Cutsforth Park offers various utility connections. Hallie explains, "This campground has full and partial hookup sites. The roads are gravel and wind their way up a steep hill."
Maneuverability considerations: Coalmine Hill provides good turning space for larger vehicles. Ashley B. notes the "amazing parking area that is large enough for RVs and horse trailers to be able to turn around without any issues," making it suitable for equestrian camping near Hermiston despite limited dedicated horse facilities.
