Columbia River campsites near Umatilla, Oregon range from fully-developed RV parks to scenic waterfront locations, with elevations around 400 feet above sea level. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cold winters, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Wind conditions can be significant along the river corridor, influencing campsite selection and outdoor activities.
What to do
Water recreation on the Columbia River: Fishhook Park offers direct access to Lake Sacajawea with a boat launch and dock. "Fishing was great off of the docks. The beach would be nice when the water is higher, otherwise it's just muddy," explains one visitor to Fishhook Park. The calm waters near Crow Butte Park are ideal for paddlers, with a camper noting, "The water was super calm, so kayaking was very enjoyable."
Wine tasting: Base yourself at Wine Country RV Park for exploring the region's wineries. "This could be a nice basecamp spot for people who love exploring wineries. The small town of Prosser has almost 30 wineries and tasting rooms in the immediate area and this park is in the midst of them all," shares one reviewer. Another mentions, "Wineries in walking distance a huge plus. Loved Coyote Canyon!"
Historical exploration: Visit the Emigrant Springs State Heritage Area to learn about Oregon Trail history. "Park rangers were so nice. They had informed classes about animals in the forest. The Jr rangers program for the children was wonderful and hands on," writes one Emigrant Springs visitor. The nearby Whitman Mission is "definitely worth checking out" according to a Fishhook Park camper.
What campers like
Spacious riverside sites: Hood Park campsites feature generous spacing with natural barriers. One camper describes the experience: "Tons of wide green lawns with lots of space, camp sites end up pretty well spaced apart so you might only have 2 or 3 neighbors then a ton of lawn before another neighbor." Another adds that it's "right on the snake river, so you can practically fish from your camp site if you want."
Panoramic river views: Crow Butte Park offers exceptional vantage points from its island location. "Trails over and around the butte provide great vistas of the Columbia River. Campsites are well-spaced (both back-in and pull-through), with electric and non-electric options," notes a visitor. The campground sits on "an island in the Columbia River, connected by a short causeway to the mainland."
Resort amenities: Glamping in Umatilla, Oregon area provides comfort alongside outdoor experiences. At Wildhorse Casino, "Amazing golf course, super friendly staff, great clean pool! Breakfast at the course is awesome, within walking distance and great bang for the buck," reports one guest. Another mentions the "shuttle van" at Wine Country RV Park that helps glampers reach area attractions without driving.
What you should know
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience significant traffic noise. At Emigrant Springs, "the road noise is extreme; very loud. If you can get past that the place is really sweet. The sites have water fire pit and picnic table and lots of trees for privacy." Another camper warns, "This campground is TOO close to the highway and too noisy even with ear plugs or music."
Seasonal challenges: Wind and insects affect camping comfort in certain seasons. "As others have mentioned, the campground can be windy, although the higher numbered sites, roughly 32-50 (toward the butte, away from the mainland) tend to be calmer," advises a visitor to Crow Butte Park. At Fishhook Park, one camper cautions about spring visits: "The trees were in bloom and bugs hatching & swarming, so that was a huge hurdle."
Reservation considerations: Popular sites fill quickly during peak seasons. "Be aware of what campsite you get as we picked spot 27 and were not made aware before hand that you need an escort to your site due to the site facing the opposite way of traffic," warns a Fishhook Park visitor. At Hood Park, another camper advises: "If you are a long rv, be cautious as the reservation line has little knowledge of sites."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly amenities: Hood Park offers extensive recreational facilities for children. "There is a playground and interpretive events for kids in the evenings. They even had some movies on the weekends. This area is peaceful and relaxing for families," shares a visitor. Another mentions the "large playground, amphitheater" that enhance the family camping experience.
Swimming opportunities: Several campgrounds offer beach access for families. "Fun little park for the kids and nice little beach for swimming," notes a visitor to Crow Butte Park. At Fishhook Park, "There is a small swimming area but no beach to speak of (grassy and pebbly area)."
Educational programs: Some parks provide ranger-led activities that appeal to children. "The Jr rangers program for the children was wonderful and hands on," shares one visitor to Emigrant Springs State Heritage Area. The park also features "a lit pathway through the woods to the washrooms" which adds safety and adventure for younger campers.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electric and water availability differs between campgrounds. At Fishhook Park, "Site 16 is the best but only has power, no water hookups or sewer. None of the site's have sewer hookups. There's a dump station on site though with a black water flush out and also potable water available." At Wildhorse Casino, campers enjoy "full hook ups while you explore the local wineries."
Site selection strategy: RVers recommend specific areas within campgrounds for better experiences. "Premium sites have concrete pads while the lower cost sites are just gravel. The pads are mostly level, but slope upwards in some spots so unhitching can be just a little tricky," advises a Wine Country RV Park visitor. For Crow Butte glamping, one camper recommends sites "32-50 (toward the butte, away from the mainland)" for less wind.
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have specific navigation challenges. "The road is a little twisty but had no issues with my 30 foot trailer," reports a Fishhook Park visitor. At Hood Park, "Flush toilets, real showers. In fairness to this campground, my 3 stars is because we stayed in overflow lot for $14, while real site would have cost us $12 (weekday fee, more on weekend)."
