Tent camping near Hermiston, Oregon centers around the Columbia River and surrounding high desert terrain. The area sits at approximately 640 feet above sea level in Oregon's northeastern region, where summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while winter nights can drop below freezing. Camping options range from primitive sites near water recreation areas to established campgrounds with limited amenities, typically located within a 30-mile radius of the city.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: The remote setting of Juniper Sand Dunes OHV offers exceptional night sky viewing. "Beautiful place to see the stars. Track your hikes, as it's easy to loose your way!" notes camper Holly R. The dark skies and minimal light pollution make this area ideal for astronomy enthusiasts.
Fishing and boating: Penland Lake supports multiple water-based activities. "You can do pretty much anything here from kayaking to fishing to swimming and overnight camping," according to Primetime V. The lake features a boat launch suitable for small watercraft but requires a valid fishing license for anglers.
Off-road recreation: The desert terrain surrounding Hermiston provides extensive trails for dirt biking and OHV use. As Jess G. describes Juniper Sand Dunes, it's "Desert camping off the beaten path! Lots of fun! Good trails, tons of dirt biking." Riders should bring adequate water supplies as no services are available on-site.
What campers like
Shaded campsites: West Park offers relief from the intense summer heat with tree-covered sites. James T. describes it as "a nice, shady campground. It is well-kept and on par with many other state park campgrounds I've been to." The canopy provides natural cooling during hot summer days when temperatures frequently reach 90°F or higher.
Secluded spots: At Penland Lake, campers can find more isolated sites away from crowds. "The one positive note is that there are a few campsites further away from the water so you're not so crowded," reports Ashton B. These sites typically require slightly longer walks but offer increased privacy.
Family-friendly beaches: Day-use swimming areas at some locations provide safe water access. Sand Station Recreation Area serves primarily as a popular swimming destination during summer months, with most visitors departing by evening, creating quieter overnight conditions.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Water access points become heavily used during peak summer months. At Sand Station Recreation Area, day-use patterns follow predictable patterns. "We were here on a hot day, lots of families with kids using the beach and swimming area... All the day users were gone by 9pm," reports aregan.
Water quality concerns: Some water bodies may contain parasites or contaminants. At Penland Lake, one camper reported: "It smelled awful and wasn't really the ideal wading water but we made it work. Unfortunately, when we got out of the water we found leeches attached to our feet." Swimming is not advisable in all locations.
Limited amenities: Most tent camping near Hermiston requires self-sufficiency. Few sites offer drinking water, and some lack even basic facilities like toilets. Campers should pack in all necessary supplies including drinking water, food, and waste disposal bags.
Tips for camping with families
Noise considerations: The proximity of transportation routes affects sound levels at some campgrounds. At Sand Station Recreation Area, one camper noted: "The site is right next to the freeway and train tracks, so is noisy. I used my ear plugs." Families with light sleepers should consider sites farther from major roads.
Site spacing: At lakeside locations, expect close proximity to neighboring campers. At Penland Lake, a visitor observed: "The tent sites were extremely close to each other and the water so I would imagine, come evening the mosquitoes would be awful!" Setting up mesh shelters for eating areas provides relief from insects.
Activity timing: Plan water activities during morning hours when temperatures are cooler and crowds smaller. Many day-use areas near the best tent camping near Hermiston, Oregon become congested by midday during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Some campgrounds near Hermiston have challenging entry points for larger vehicles. At Penland Lake campground, a visitor noted: "If you go further into the campsite area you will find a dirt road and a few more campsites near the water. Very tight and looks difficult to get an RV in, but there was a small one parked there." RVs exceeding 25 feet should confirm access before attempting entry.
Utility restrictions: Electric hookups are scarce among tent camping locations around Hermiston. Most sites require generator use for power needs, though West Park does offer electric hookups while prohibiting campfires, providing a trade-off for RV campers seeking basic amenities.
Seasonal closures: Several access roads to primitive camping areas become impassable during winter months. Camping near Hermiston outside summer season requires calling ahead to verify road conditions and campground status as many operate seasonally without formal closure announcements.
