Lake Wallula stretches along a dammed section of the Columbia River near the Oregon-Washington border, offering camping options where summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F. The area maintains a desert climate with minimal rainfall and frequent wind, particularly along exposed riverbanks. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally between April and October due to potential winter freezing conditions.
What to do
Paddleboarding in sheltered coves: Umatilla Marina & RV Park provides access to a protected area ideal for beginners and dogs. "Beach/cove is very nice and good place to paddle-board or kayak. Didn't use restrooms but the rest of the campground was clean and tidy," notes Kevin H.
Fishing from shoreline access: Hood Park offers easy fishing spots directly from some campsites. "It's right on the snake river, so you can practically fish from your camp site if you want. There is a connected wildlife preserve that you can walk around in and also fish in that is a separate area. Lots of birds to watch," explains Nathan B.
Nature area exploration: Trails through adjacent wildlife preserves provide opportunities for wildlife viewing. "This campground offers developed sites with hookups for campers. There is a nature area with some trails onsite for exploring," mentions Chris A. at Hood Park.
What campers like
Large grassy spaces: Plymouth Park Campground provides well-maintained lawns between sites. "The sites are level and paved, easy for any size rig. Lawns are irrigated and green so that is a nice touch," reports Jessie L.
Clean, accessible bathrooms: Umatilla Marina maintains excellent facilities according to visitors. "Bathrooms and showers were excellent," mentions Cindy, while another camper notes the "immaculate bathrooms/showers."
Quiet riverfront locations: Umatilla Marina & RV Park offers peaceful water views despite some highway noise. "Right on the River! Little bit of freeway noise, but otherwise very quiet and peaceful. Level gravel sites with grassy area between sites," shares Roger M.
What you should know
Summer insect activity: Yellow jackets can be problematic at certain campgrounds during peak season. Plymouth Park has received specific reports about insects: "What she failed to warn us about is the swarming yellow jackets. My boyfriend spent the entire evening fighting them away from the van. I got stung."
Limited privacy between sites: Most campgrounds in the area feature open layouts. "It's a cute spot if you don't mind sharing right spaces and zero privacy. The spots are basically pull outs off the camp roadway," explains Nicole L. about Plymouth Park.
Seasonal facility closures: Hat Rock Campground has undergone ownership changes affecting availability. "Under new ownership and they no longer allow overnight camping only long-term rental," reports Heather B., indicating the need to verify current status before planning a visit.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Hood Park includes recreational facilities specifically for children. "This campground offers developed sites with hookups for campers. There is a playground and interpretive events for kids in the evenings. They even had some movies on the weekends."
Educational evening programs: Check scheduled activities during summer months for ranger-led events. "They even had some movies on the weekends. This area is peaceful and relaxing for families," notes a Hood Park visitor.
Dog friendly campgrounds Lake Wallula: Pasco Tri-Cities KOA welcomes families with pets in a maintained environment. "Nice campground for in the city. Well maintained. Friendly and helpful staff. Nice playground and RC track which our child loved," shares Lawrence L.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer electrical connections but other hookups vary. Plymouth Park provides "electric hookups, water access, picnic tables, and fire pits at level paved sites with open lawn areas between them."
Dump station access: Pioneer RV Park offers full utility connections for extended stays. "Great park for overnight, short term or long term. Full hook ups, incl water, sewer, garbage. Electrical is extra," mentions Ron N.
Level site surfaces: Most Lake Wallula pet-friendly camping areas feature prepared pads. "The sites are level and paved, easy for any size rig," notes one visitor to Plymouth Park, while another mentions, "Pulled In right before 5:00PM on a Sunday and was able to check in before the help went home. The pull their site was able to accommodate both vehicles with a problem."
