2 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Several RV campgrounds operate near Lake Umatilla and John Day Lock and Dam, ranging from pull-through gravel sites to full hookup riverfront parks. Rufus RV Park offers level pull-through sites with gravel surfaces and well-maintained grassy areas between sites. Port of Arlington RV Park & Marina provides riverfront access with toilet facilities and sanitary dump stations. Peach Beach RV Park on the Columbia features full hookup sites with 50-amp electric service, water, and sewer connections that accommodate big rigs. The park includes modern shower facilities and waterfront access, though sites are positioned relatively close together. "Very nice RV park, right on the Columbia River. Clean. Nice wide spots," noted one visitor.
Most RV parks in the area remain open year-round, though Rufus RV Park closes from November through March. Highway noise affects several riverside parks due to their proximity to Interstate 84 and nearby train tracks. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, with AT&T reported as having full coverage at Peach Beach. Dump stations are available at multiple locations including Sherman County RV Park and Peach Beach. According to feedback on The Dyrt, highway and train noise can be significant at riverfront parks, particularly for visitors in less insulated units. Pets are welcome at most facilities, though restrictions may apply at certain parks. Modern bathhouses with showers are standard amenities, with one traveler describing "immaculate bathrooms" at Stargazers RV.
"Nice large sites, lots of communal areas like grass areas and river access. Went during COVID so restrooms were closed, but toilet/shower rooms were there."
"Lots of shade. Enough space between sites. Easy back-ins and some pull-throughs. A lot of background noise bordering on white noise, so not bad. Spotless restrooms. Beautiful views of the river."
from $40 - $45 / night
"That being said, the sites are level with full amenities - pull-throughs and easy back-ins. The restrooms and laundry are spotless. The host is very nice. The rates are very low."
"This is not a fancy place, but it is clean, well tended, quiet and beautiful. After 10 hours driving, I just wanted a quiet place to sleep. This was exactly that."
"We stayed at the Arlington RV Park and Marina in Arlington, Oregon in September 2021. This is a nice, small park that is directly beside the Columbia River on the Gorge."
"There are a few picnic tables and watching the river was great!
There is a dump, a boat dock, super-clean bathrooms and outdoor showers."
"Separate sections for short- and long-term guests. Level pull-through sites with gravel and well- kept grassy areas in between. Modern bath house and laundry area. Lots of potted flowers."
"All of the facilities were clean and the ground were clear of litter and well maintained, which must be a challenge considering the lawns between the sites."
"Nice convenient RV stop off of highway 97. Immaculate bathrooms. Mountain views of both Mt Hood and Mt Adams."
"Large spaces, easy to drive through, 30 and 50 amp, most sites had full hookups with fire pits and picnic tables."
"Elk Meadows is far up a well paved road just before the entrance into national forest land. "
"Come in across the bridge from Oregon is a toll bridge and uncomfortable. If meeting a big rig coming the opposite way."
"The tracks are below the level of the park, and we quite like the train rumble. The highway is at a higher elevation than the park, so that noise didn't particularly bother us either. "
from $30 - $60 / night
from $50 - $275 / night
"Right on the river, clean and cell service is great. WiFi works great. Full hook up’s and showers. Great fishing and star gazing and a cute little town a walk away. I will be back."
"The only thing missing was shade! And bathrooms if you don’t have an RV."
Available this weekend
from $65 - $85 / night
RangerGood for a quick overnight stop. Can’t beat free! Plenty of room for bigger rigs. Dumpsters on site. Quite a few stray cats in the area. We stopped after dark and were gone before sun up. The dam is pretty cool lit up at night.
TravelerBeautiful park. The bathrooms are heated, with space to hang your jacket or backpack. Flushers with a sink to wash up. The RV space was large, with shade and a beautiful view of Mt Adams. Showers and laundry available- bring some quarters along.
ScoutPretty cool little campground. Multiple sites right on the river, but some might be a bit precarious for some to navigate. Facilities were clean and you can tell the camp hosts care. Recommend for an easy getaway for a couple days.
ScoutTrains keep coming through 😭. Tent sites are small.
RangerReviewed by: The Crew at Hitched4fun.com
If you are navigating the Pacific Northwest corridor or routing toward Glacier National Park along Interstate 84, Boardman Marina& RV Campground is an absolute breath of fresh air. Situated right along the shores of the Columbia River (Lake Umatilla), this park provides an exceptionally scenic, vibrant oasis in Eastern Oregon. During our recent cross-country trek, we booked Site Circle B-24, and it instantly became one of the prettiest waterside stops of our trip.
Campground Setting& Site Quality (Circle B-24)
The immediate standout feature when pulling into this park is just how remarkably lush and green everything is.
The Columbia River Experience
The campground sits directly on the banks of Lake Umatilla, turning a routine overnight stay into a true waterfront retreat.
The Hitched4fun Verdict
Boardman Marina& RV Campground combines pristine green park grounds with unbeatable river views. Whether you are boating, letting kids run free on the grass, or just looking for a calm, scenic rest stop right off the highway, Site Circle B-24 delivers everything a camper could want. We will definitely keep this on our preferred list for future Northwest runs.
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars— Highly Recommended by the entire Hitched4fun.com crew!
LegendWe had a great day and one night stay here in late September. The site was right on the hood river that runs thru the campground. Many hiking trails and also an awesome campground overall. Clean restrooms. Awesome camp hosts. This is our second Time in the campground but first on the river. Will return for sure!
TravelerIt’s a little noisy from the train but I didn’t mind my Campspot A21 had a perfect view of the deschutes river. And trails nearby
LegendNice little campground, although the spaces are pretty close together and the downside is, it’s right next to the freeway and a bridge so there’s quite a bit of traffic noise. It is right on the John Day river which is very pretty. Campsites had water and electric and there is a dump station. several pull through, but the back ends were a little difficult to get into as they weren’t angled very much.
GuideWe’re the only ones here although it’s only 3:30 on a Wednesday. We have a spot right in the water, looking forward to a nice stay. It appears to be free. But we just got here. I’ll edit after we spend the night. There were a few looong trains during the night, across the river but I kinda liked them.
Lake Umatilla, formed by the John Day Dam on the Columbia River, stretches approximately 76 miles along the border of Oregon and Washington. RV parks near John Day Lock and Dam offer camping options in a region characterized by high desert conditions with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F. Highway noise varies significantly based on campground location, with riverside parks experiencing more consistent traffic and train sounds.
Wine tasting tours: Several wineries operate within walking distance of Peach Beach RV Park on the Columbia, making it convenient to sample local vintages. "Peaceful. Close to several wineries and farm stands. Especially recommend Gunnels fruit and waving tree winery - both within walking distance of campground," notes one visitor.
Columbia River fishing: The river provides excellent fishing opportunities accessible from Port of Arlington RV Park & Marina. Fishing from the docks is popular during summer months. "Very beautiful area here to walk and enjoy the river and city park," reports one camper who appreciated the riverfront access.
Historical exploration: Visit the nearby Maryhill Museum and Stonehenge replica for cultural experiences. "Other must sees are maryhill museum and stonehenge replica," recommends a camper who stayed at Peach Beach while exploring local attractions.
Peaceful riverside settings: Sherman County RV Park offers tranquil camping despite its proximity to highways. "This is a safe, clean, quiet overnight stopover. We found the same-day after hours check-in to be easy and clearly explained, prices reasonable, and restroom facilities exceptionally clean," writes one visitor.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear skies and minimal light pollution create excellent night viewing conditions. "Beautiful night sky. 10/10 recommend. Adorable tiny town. Maybe our favorite campground of our whole trip," notes an enthusiast who stayed at Sherman County RV Park.
Well-maintained facilities: Gorge Base Camp RV Park receives praise for cleanliness and amenities. "The restrooms and shower were quite large and immaculate. There is a gas and go next door within walking distance for incidental purchases," reports a camper who appreciated the convenience.
Train noise considerations: Railroad tracks run along the Columbia River, creating regular noise at most riverside campgrounds. "The campground is very close to the main railroad tracks and trains come by every hour or so at all times of the day. After 3 days you actually become accustomed to the sounds," explains a camper at Gorge Base Camp RV Park.
Bridge crossing challenges: The Hood River Bridge connecting Oregon and Washington presents difficulties for RVs. "If you have an RV and can avoid taking the Hood River Bridge, that is highly advisable. With two 9' lanes, it's a nightmare to get across," warns a visitor to the area.
Seasonal closures: Check operating schedules before planning winter trips. "Big sign says closed right now," reported a visitor attempting to access Rufus RV Park during its annual closure from November through March.
Look for river swimming areas: During hot summer months, access to swimming spots provides relief. "This was our first time ever camping with a tent trailer and it was a great first time. People were friendly and it was next door to a park where you could swim, launch a boat or fish," notes a visitor to Peach Beach.
Choose parks with playgrounds: Some campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Not necessarily a campground, but great rest stop with clean bathrooms, grassy area to lay, and docks for leisure, swimming, etc. Playground available," mentions a visitor to Port of Arlington RV Park.
Consider educational opportunities: The region offers learning experiences at museums and historical sites. "Moro also has a must see museum," writes a camper who stayed at Sherman County RV Park while exploring the area with family.
Level sites availability: Elk Meadows RV Park offers particularly level camping spots. "Gravel roads and sites through the park are dragged regularly to stay flat and easy to navigate. Hookups were well maintained," notes an RV camper who appreciated the attention to detail.
Cell service reliability: Most campgrounds in the area maintain consistent connectivity. "Cell coverage though I didn't note the details. Decent WiFi (free!)," reports a camper at Sherman County RV Park, which matters for those needing to stay connected.
Space considerations: Site sizes vary significantly between parks. "Large spaces, easy to drive through, 30 and 50 amp, most sites had full hookups with fire pits and picnic tables," writes an RVer describing the generous spacing at Elk Meadows RV Park, contrasting with tighter arrangements at some riverside locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular RV campsite near John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular RV campground near John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla is Peach Beach RV Park on the Columbia with a 4.1-star rating from 32 reviews.
What is the best site to find RV camping near John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla?
TheDyrt.com has all 86 RV camping locations near John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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