RV camping near Pendleton, Oregon offers sites across an elevation range of 1,500-3,000 feet with the most accessible locations in the Columbia Basin. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F during July and August, while winter overnight lows often drop below freezing from November through March. Most Pendleton-area campgrounds remain at lower elevations in the rain shadow of the Cascades, resulting in semi-arid conditions.
What to do
Bowling and arcade games: Visit Wildhorse Resort Casino RV Park & Tipi Villiage for family-friendly activities beyond gambling. "The casino has added many family activities, including an arcade, a cinema, a food court, and recently a bowling alley with multiple lanes. Plus restaurants and a sports bar," notes Sandy S.
Swimming options: Access dedicated pools at several rv campgrounds Pendleton, Oregon area. "Both the hotel and the RV park have separate swimming pools," mentions a Wildhorse Resort visitor, offering cooling options during hot eastern Oregon summers.
River activities: Explore Umatilla Marina & RV park for water recreation. "There are tent sites available for $20" and it's "a nice park and swimming area for kids," according to reviewers, with the park situated along the Columbia River.
Wine tasting excursions: Make day trips to nearby Walla Walla wine country from Pendleton campgrounds. "Walking distance to downtown wineries and restaurants," notes a Blue Valley RV Park visitor, with many eastern Oregon RV parks positioned for easy access to regional wineries.
What campers like
Marina access: Umatilla Marina & RV Park offers direct water access. "The marina has a large parking lot and spots to clean fish. There is a nice park and swimming area for kids," reports Jill T., highlighting the dual recreation opportunities.
Clean facilities: Many campers praise bathroom conditions. "The bathrooms and showers were nice and clean," reports a Wildhorse Resort visitor, while another notes "immaculate bathrooms/showers" at Umatilla Marina.
Level sites: RVers appreciate the concrete pads at several parks. "Nicely spaced concrete pads" at Blue Valley RV Park provide stable setups, and "the sites are ok" at Lookout RV Park according to reviewers.
Quiet atmosphere: Despite urban proximity, many parks maintain peaceful environments. "The park is rarely full" at Wildhorse Resort, while Columbia Sun RV Resort offers a "quiet and very cozy" setting with "a wonderful summer wind" despite being near town.
What you should know
Varied pricing: Costs range significantly between RV campgrounds near Pendleton. "We paid $45 for one night in an electric hookup spot. Seems a bit steep," notes one Wildhorse Resort visitor, while tent camping at Umatilla can be found for $20 per night.
Reservation requirements: Bookings are essential for some parks. "I called from 40 miles out on a Friday night... High summer season. They were nearly full. They held a spot," reports Joshua G. about RV Resort Four Seasons.
Highway noise: Traffic sounds affect some campgrounds. "Some interstate noise but not bad" at Umatilla Marina, while other reviewers note: "The proximity to Interstate 84 makes these RV campgrounds easily accessible for travelers, though some highway noise might be noticeable."
Seasonal considerations: Weather extremes affect camping comfort. "We stayed in late October 2020 during a cold snap," notes one Umatilla camper, while summer visitors face "triple digit weather" in Walla Walla campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Columbia Sun RV Resort offers "heated pool and hot tub, game room and more" according to Jeff M., making it popular for families despite its in-town location.
Movie opportunities: Check for special events at campgrounds. "The field next to the campground set up a outdoor movie night with free popcorn. The kids loved it and it was a great memory maker," reports Agnes B.
Tipi options: Consider alternative accommodations. "We didn't go to the casino, we did spend a lot of time in the pool and envied those staying in the tipis," mentions a Wildhorse Resort visitor, highlighting unique sleeping arrangements beyond standard RV sites.
Space for play: Look for parks with open areas. "Lawn like carpet" at Umatilla Marina & RV Park provides space for children, while another camper notes having "a grassy area next to our RV" for outdoor activities.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through accessibility: Pilot RV Park accommodates large rigs efficiently. "We could drive right into our pull-through space," notes Tom C., adding convenience for motorhome travelers making overnight stops.
Site selection strategy: Consider seasonal factors when choosing spots. "If I was staying longer go for shade. Its 85-90 this time of year," advises Joshua G., noting shade trees make a significant difference during eastern Oregon summers.
Utility placement awareness: Position vehicles with hookup locations in mind. "The utilities are towards the back of the pad, so I had to use two sewer hoses to get from the main black tank," reports a Blue Valley visitor, highlighting planning needs for various RV configurations.
Cash payment benefits: Budget-conscious travelers can find savings opportunities. "Pay in cash and get a good deal" at Pioneer RV Park, where the park is "paved grass at every sight" with convenient access to amenities.
