Camping near Mikkalo, Oregon centers primarily around the Columbia River Basin and John Day River corridor, with elevations ranging from 200-1,500 feet in the surrounding high desert terrain. Summer temperatures typically reach 90-100°F during day and drop to 50-60°F at night, creating significant daily temperature swings. Most campgrounds feature wide-open landscapes with minimal natural shade and consistent winds, especially in areas directly along river corridors.
What to do
Hiking along canyon trails: The John Day River corridor offers several hiking trails with distinctive high desert terrain. At Lone Tree Campground — Cottonwood Canyon State Park, visitors can explore multiple trail options. "There are some really great hikes you can do nearby. We did the Pinnacles Trail and Lost Corral Trail. Both of these hikes were 'moderate/difficult.' They were both a little over 8 miles roundtrip. The scenery is gorgeous on both hikes- you follow along the river," reports Julie P.
Bird watching and wildlife viewing: The open terrain provides excellent opportunities for spotting native wildlife. "We saw some interesting birds and lizards around the campsite. The stargazing is really nice," notes Irene L. who camped at Cottonwood Canyon. Bird species commonly seen include eagles, hawks, waterfowl, and songbirds native to high desert ecosystems.
Water sports on Columbia River: Several parks provide direct water access for swimming and boating. At Roosevelt Park, visitors enjoy riverside activities despite the wind. "This is a great campground for kite surfers and for the same reason non-kiters may find the location too windy," explains Ferit F. The park's location along the Columbia River creates consistent wind conditions ideal for wind-powered water sports.
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: The remote location means minimal light pollution at many campgrounds. Sherman County RV Park receives particular praise for its night skies. Emma R. notes, "Amazing little place with the nicest people. Clean and comfortable restrooms/showers. Beautiful night sky. 10/10 recommend. Adorable tiny town. Maybe our favorite campground of our whole trip."
Riverside camping spots: Direct access to water is a highlight for campers throughout the region. At Lepage Park Campground, campers can secure waterfront sites. "The pull-through sites run along the water's edge, offering water views but smaller pads. There's no shade but the breeze kept things cool enough," describes Jackie W., who visited with her dog and found the park well-maintained with hookups including 50 amp and water.
Clean facilities despite remote location: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and common areas. At Threemile Canyon Park, Connie H. observed, "This spot was great for an overnight stay! Gravel lot and some small pull outs with plenty of space for multiple rigs. There was a vault toilet available for use, which was pretty clean. This is a pack it in, pack it out area, so be prepared to take your trash with you!"
What you should know
Train noise affects many campgrounds: Railroad tracks follow the Columbia River, impacting several camping areas. Zackary O. warns about Sundale Park Primitive Campground, "If you're a light sleeper you may not like this spot due to a train track right beside it. Great for overnighting on a long road trip though."
Wind conditions require preparation: The Columbia River Gorge creates consistent wind patterns that affect camping comfort. At Peach Beach RV Park, Angela S. observed, "The park is in the dryer part of the Gorge but this park surrounded by lush fruit orchards made it feel like an oasis." Tent campers should bring extra stakes and secure equipment, especially during afternoon hours when winds typically increase.
Limited natural shade: Most campgrounds feature open terrain with minimal tree cover. Tim T. describes Sherman County RV Park as having "surrounding landscapes are 'stunning' and the peace and quiet, absolute," but notes its simple, rustic nature typical of high desert camping where shade structures or awnings are essential during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Look for swimming areas with safety features: Designated swimming areas provide safer water access. "There is a roped off swimming area and plenty of space for grass games and a nice play structure for kids," says Jill T. about Lepage Park Campground. The swimming area allows families with children to enjoy water activities with added safety measures.
Consider shoulder seasons for comfort: May-June or September-October typically offer more moderate temperatures. Thomas K. found Roosevelt Park ideal for family camping: "It was a very well maintained campground and all the surrounding campers were so nice. Was a really fun week outdoors by the lake!" Spring and fall visits avoid extreme summer heat that can be challenging for children.
Pack additional water supplies: Limited potable water sources exist at some sites. Shawn M. at Cottonwood Canyon State Park notes, "This means no electric sites, no running water, no flush toilets," highlighting the need for families to bring additional water containers, especially during hot weather when children may require more frequent hydration.
Tips from RVers
Use pull-through sites when available: Several campgrounds offer pull-through options for easier access. At Deschutes River State Recreation Area, Emma A. advises, "We stayed in loop T with our van. Only $10 per site plus $8 for the reservation online. They allow vehicles up to 24 ft in this primitive loop and in my opinion is the prettiest, most natural looking and furthest from the highway."
Check site leveling requirements: The terrain at some campgrounds requires additional stabilization. At Port of Arlington RV Park, Jeff & Steff's Excellent Adventure notes, "The sites are FHU and are level but a bit tight. We did get our fifth wheel in with careful maneuvering. Be forewarned that it is very windy here on the gorge and we would advise getting your leveling jacks down without using Legos so as to have extra firm footing."
Consider boondocking options for flexibility: Some locations offer dry camping alternatives. At Port of Arlington RV Park & Marina, JulieJay M. reports, "$10 to dry camp. Not sure of the price for an Rv slot. Beautiful river view. Some tent pads, level area for my van to park and sleep. Great breezes today." These options provide more economical alternatives for self-contained RVs.
