Camping near John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla

Searching for the best camping near John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla, OR? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Oregon camping adventure.

Best Camping Sites Near John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla (115)

    1. Peach Beach RV Park on the Columbia

    28 Reviews
    Cheatham Lock and Dam, WA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 773-4927

    $40 - $45 / night

    "It was during the major fires in Oregon so most of the time it was socked in by thick/heavy smoke.  Like brown fog.  Not at all the fault of Peach Beach. "

    "peaceful. close to several wineries and farm stands. especially recommend gunnels fruit and waving tree winery - both within walking distance of campground. other must sees are maryhill museum and stonehenge"

    2. Deschutes River State Recreation Area

    33 Reviews
    Wishram, OR
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 739-2322

    $13 - $74 / night

    "It's the perfect spot if you are traveling across Oregon and need a nice place to stop before continuing to another state, or eastern Oregon. 

    The campground is relatively small."

    "Found this place on the map while searching for a place to camp at the Washington/Oregon border."

    3. Maryhill State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Wishram, WA
    8 miles
    Website

    "Just a brief stop overnight en route to the Oregon Coast."

    "If you aren't paying attention, you could miss the park entrance, so be careful about that. We are in a nice pull through site on the river side."

    4. Lepage Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Wasco, OR
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 739-1135

    $15 - $35 / night

    "The pull-through sites run along the water’s edge, offering water views but smaller pads and tragically, blocking my view. There’s no shade but the breeze kept things cool enough."

    "The edge of the pull-through RV spots follows the river and most spots have easy access to the 10-foot rock access to the water. We visited during the last weekend of July and it was HOT!"

    5. Lone Tree Campground — Cottonwood Canyon State Park

    28 Reviews
    Mikkalo, OR
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 394-0002

    $13 - $74 / night

    "I wasn't sure what to expect at this high desert park, but situated deep in a canyon on a once working cattle ranch, this park is poised to become one of Oregon's top state parks."

    "Its also a rattlesnake habitat in Eastern Oregon's high desert biome, within 30 miles or so of The Dalles, a city marking the change in the Columbia River Gorge from high desert to wooded mountainsides"

    6. Giles French Park Primitive Camping

    7 Reviews
    Cheatham Lock and Dam, OR
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (541) 739-1135

    7. Rufus RV Park

    5 Reviews
    Cheatham Lock and Dam, OR
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 739-2272

    "Dog-walking area. Distant traffic noise from I-84. I would stay there again in a heartbeat."

    8. Sherman County RV Park

    7 Reviews
    Moro, OR
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 565-3127

    "The surrounding landscapes are ‘stunning’ and the peace and quiet, absolute.

    While old, the restrooms and showers were very well maintained and absolutely immaculate."

    "After 10 hours driving, I just wanted a quiet place to sleep. This was exactly that. I paid $35 for a pull through and a 30amp hookup for my teardrop."

    9. Avery Rec Area- Columbia River Gorge

    10 Reviews
    Wishram, WA
    18 miles
    Website

    "Great little swimming spot steps from our spot. Trains will come every hour and tracks are close to sites. A few wineries within a mile and one about .5 miles from spot."

    "Parking next to water seemed like a dream, until your are awaked by the sound of a screaming train in your ear. For last minute locations, I would stop here again."

    10. Celilo Park Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    Wishram, OR
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 296-1181

    "There is a train track close by and the 84 is also close by. You can stay for free for up to 14 days. We have a generator and a 40’ fifth wheel. We had plenty of parking."

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Recent Reviews near John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla

535 Reviews of 115 John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla Campgrounds


  • Beth D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Boardman Marina Park

    Beautiful spot on the Columbia

    Campsites are large. And level. There’s lots of grass picnic tables fire pit. there’s a walking trail along the river and it’s close to town. There are clean restrooms with free showers and paid laundry facility. Seems to work pretty well.

  • Richard H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Elk Meadows RV Park

    Nice campground and facilities.

    Great view of Mt Adams if you can get one of the premium sites. Saw elk and heard elk bugling every morning in the meadow. Very quiet and relaxed.

  • Marasha L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF

    Quiet and peaceful

    Perfect to boondock and have space to yourself with excellent views and hiking. Love this spot.

  • smittie The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Peach Beach RV Park on the Columbia

    very relaxing campground on columbia river

    peaceful. close to several wineries and farm stands. especially recommend gunnels fruit and waving tree winery - both within walking distance of campground. other must sees are maryhill museum and stonehenge replica.

  • angelina H.
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Peach Beach RV Park on the Columbia

    Beautiful, serene location.

    Stayed here on a job for at least some 6 months, absolutely loved it. The hostess was very friendly, the adjoining small state park I believe it is is very convenient for pet owners, and the location is overall gorgeous.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Peach Beach RV Park on the Columbia

    Oasis on the Gorge

    Clean, cute and well cared for park on the Columbia river. Rolled in at 11:30pm to a quiet park with well laid out directions and fresh peaches in our welcome bag. Called ahead letting them know we’d be super late with no problems, very accommodating. Nicely spaced, clean sites. No sewer hookups if on the river side but the view we woke up to was well worth it. The park is in the dryer part of the Gorge but this park surrounded by lush fruit orchards made it feel like an oasis. Definitely would stay here again.

  • cThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 28, 2025

    Sherman County RV Park

    Good

    Clean ,comfortable, safe, quiet nice stay would/will stay again

  • Denise B.
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Crow Butte Park

    clean and enjoyable

    A big shout out to Wayne, the camp host. He was such a life saver. The in-line water filter in our fifth wheel blew apart so we were checking to find the nearest RV parts place, on a Saturday evening. Wayne had a spare! He let us borrow his spare water filter for the duration of our stay, which saved us a 2-hour round-trip drive to Prosser.  While the camp hosts are around, visible, and staying busy, they let the campers be campers to enjoy their time.

    The water was super calm, so kayaking was very enjoyable. The grounds were clean and green.


Guide to John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla

Camping near John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla, Oregon, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled trip, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Fishing: The area is great for fishing enthusiasts. At Lepage Park Campground, one camper mentioned, "My dog had a large area to run off-leash... We did the nearby Deschutes River Canyon trail." This makes it a perfect spot for both fishing and hiking.
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around the campgrounds. A visitor at Memaloose State Park Campground said, "Tons of hiking trails nearby," which is ideal for those who love to hit the trails.
  • Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife. One reviewer at Deschutes River State Recreation Area noted, "Caught 4 Small Mouth Bass out of the river," highlighting the diverse aquatic life you can encounter.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Maryhill State Park Campground remarked, "Bathrooms are very clean. Good hiking trails along the river," making it a comfortable choice for families.
  • Scenic Views: Many campers rave about the stunning views. One camper at Cottonwood Canyon State Park said, "The canyon is steep and unique with the John Day river running right through it," showcasing the natural beauty of the area.
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peaceful environment. A reviewer at Threemile Canyon Park mentioned, "Stayed two nights and loved it," indicating a relaxing experience away from the hustle and bustle.

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for some noise from trains and highways. A camper at Peach Beach RV Park noted, "There’s a highway and railroad tracks in the backyard," which might be a concern for light sleepers.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds have fewer amenities. A visitor at Giles French Park Primitive Camping said, "There are no designated camping spots," so it's essential to plan accordingly.
  • Weather Conditions: The weather can be unpredictable. A reviewer at Columbia Hills Historical State Park Campground mentioned, "It can get windy, so awnings are not always safe from damage," which is something to keep in mind.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with spacious areas. A camper at Deschutes River State Recreation Area said, "There are a lot of mature trees in the A loop," providing shade and space for kids to play.
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities planned. A visitor at Beavertail Campground noted, "Quick access to the river," which is perfect for swimming and fishing.
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep everyone happy with snacks. A camper at Lone Tree Campground — Cottonwood Canyon State Park mentioned, "There were several possible walks and hikes at varying levels of difficulty," so having snacks on hand can keep the energy up.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A reviewer at Maryhill State Park Campground said, "Each campsite has plenty of space and full hookups for RVs," which is crucial for a comfortable stay.
  • Be Mindful of Space: Some sites can be tight. A camper at Peach Beach RV Park noted, "Packed in a little tight but overall I would stay here again," so be prepared for close quarters.
  • Plan for Wind: Wind can be a factor, especially in open areas. A visitor at Columbia Hills Historical State Park Campground mentioned, "It is very windy due to its location in the gorge," so secure your RV and belongings.

Camping near John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla, Oregon, offers a unique blend of outdoor fun and relaxation. With the right preparation, you can enjoy everything this beautiful area has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla?

According to TheDyrt.com, John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla offers a wide range of camping options, with 115 campgrounds and RV parks near John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla and 10 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla is Peach Beach RV Park on the Columbia with a 4-star rating from 28 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla?