Columbia River campsites near Umatilla, Oregon range from waterfront locations to inland parks with river access. The region sits at approximately 400 feet elevation in an arid climate zone receiving less than 10 inches of rainfall annually. Summer camping conditions often include strong winds along the Columbia River Gorge, with wind speeds regularly exceeding 20 mph, particularly during afternoon hours.
What to do
River activities: Plymouth Park Campground offers access to Columbia River recreation with plenty of green space. "It is a clean and friendly park. Water was potable. Price is right for hookups," notes Moria R. The nearby swimming area makes for convenient water access during hot summer days.
Walking trails: Boardman Marina Park features riverside walking paths suitable for daily exercise. "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," shares Beth D. The paved trail extends 2.8 miles along the river.
Fishing opportunities: Waterfront fishing access makes Hood Park a popular destination for anglers. "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," explains Nathan B.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Umatilla Marina & RV park receives praise for its generous camping areas. "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," notes Ray V. regarding his 28' Class C with a towed vehicle.
Clean facilities: Plymouth Park Campground maintains well-kept restrooms and grounds. "Clean area with grass and playground. Dumpster and restroom available. Sights are on paved roadway with firepits and picnic tables. Easy in and out for our 32' Class A," reports Katherine K.
Family amenities: Multiple camping areas near Umatilla feature playgrounds and grass areas for children. "Lots of options in this campground from drive through big trailer spots to back in spots to tent only areas. Tons of wide green lawns with lots of space," says Nathan B. about Hood Park, which includes a playground and irrigated green spaces.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Temperatures fluctuate dramatically throughout the year near Umatilla. "It does get really really hot here in the summer FYI," warns Mimi about Plymouth Park Campground. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F from July through August.
Wildlife awareness: Campers should prepare for encounters with local wildlife. "When you arrive a sweet lady warns you about the snakes. But what she failed to warn us about is the swarming yellow jackets," reports Courtney Z. at Hood Park. Insect repellent is essential during summer months.
Noise factors: Proximity to transportation corridors affects some camping areas. "It is noisy with the bridge and Hwy right there beside the park," notes Cindy about Umatilla Marina RV Park. Train tracks also run parallel to some campgrounds, creating periodic noise throughout night hours.
Tips for camping with families
Water access: Sand Station Recreation Area provides swimming opportunities for families with children. "We were here on a hot day, lots of families with kids using the beach and swimming area," notes aregan. The swimming area features a gradual entry point suitable for younger children.
Playground options: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "Campground seemed to have nice vibe with kids on bikes, large playground, amphitheater," reports Brenda E. about Hood Park, making it suitable for families needing recreation options.
Educational activities: Interpretive programs enhance family camping experiences during summer months. "There is a nature area with some trails onsite for exploring," shares Chris A., adding that Hood Park offers "interpretive events for kids in the evenings. They even had some movies on the weekends."
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Pasco Tri-Cities KOA provides well-maintained, level spaces for RVs. "The park is tight with very narrow spaces but well maintained. We were only stopping for one night on the way home and having a level, nice pull-through site, with hookups was nice," reports Bruce P., noting, "We never even unhooked the trailer but was spot on level."
Hookup considerations: RV campers should verify hookup availability when making reservations. "Be advised that if you go in the off-season the spots are first come first served. We were disappointed to find there was no water hookup as they had already winterized," warns Lisa about Boardman Marina Park, noting that "the nightly rate was the same with or without."
Leveling challenges: Some sites require additional work to position RVs properly. "Some of the pull throughs do have quite a bit of pavement buckling, so it can make leveling a bit more work," reports Jay K. about Boardman Marina Park, adding "In site 45, I think the dump ended up being almost uphill from my trailer, so it was an interesting challenge to get my tanks emptied."
