Camping near Wasco, Oregon offers distinct experiences across high desert plateau settings where temperatures can shift dramatically between day and night. The region sits at approximately 1,200-1,300 feet elevation with low annual rainfall, creating an arid landscape that contrasts with the water-rich Columbia River corridor. Most campsites in this area experience persistent winds, especially during afternoon hours when gusts can exceed 20 mph.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Several miles of trails available at Deschutes River State Recreation Area where campers can borrow bikes if needed. "They offered loaner bikes and there were little bike workstations on the grounds," notes one visitor at Cottonwood Canyon State Park, highlighting the cyclist-friendly amenities throughout the region.
Stargazing opportunities: The high desert region offers exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. "Night sky was unreal. Feels like no one is around for miles," reports a camper who stayed at the Hike in from Lower Deschutes State Rec Area, where dispersed camping provides more isolation from artificial light.
Wine tasting: Multiple wineries within short driving distance of campsites. "Close to some fantastic wineries and Maryhill museum," mentions a visitor to Peach Beach RV Park, while another notes there's "a wine tasting shop" adjacent to their campground.
Cultural exploration: Visit the Stonehenge replica near Maryhill. "An interesting spot just up the hill is Stonehenge. The first WWI monument built in America," shares a camper who appreciated this unique regional attraction from Maryhill State Park Campground.
What campers like
Accessible swimming spots: The John Day and Columbia Rivers provide cooling relief during hot months. One camper at Lone Tree Campground — Cottonwood Canyon State Park notes, "The gorgeous John Day River, was perfect for fishing, swimming, floating," highlighting the multiple water recreation options available.
Clean facilities despite remote locations: Many campgrounds maintain surprisingly well-kept amenities. "While old, the restrooms and showers were very well maintained and absolutely immaculate. And I'm an admitted and unabashed germaphobe," remarks a visitor to Sherman County RV Park.
Privacy options: Some sites offer more seclusion than others. "We were right along the river next to the group spot, which was empty, and a good distance away from the other sites," explains a camper who appreciated the spacing at Lone Tree Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Desert ecosystems support diverse animal species. "We saw lizards, red ants, dragon flies, butterflies, birds, geese," shares a camper about their experience, providing insight into the small wildlife encounters common in this arid region.
What you should know
Train noise affects many sites: Railroad tracks run along both sides of the Columbia River. "Great park...clean, easy access, good hiking, good fishing, beautiful scenery, sites are flat and not jamb packed. Only problem is trains go by at night and blow their noisy, loud horns," explains a visitor to Deschutes River State Recreation Area.
Intense summer heat: Daytime temperatures frequently reach 90°F+ between June and September. A camper at Avery Rec Area- Columbia River Gorge notes, "Can't beat a waterfront spot," which provides relief from high temperatures.
Limited shade availability: Most campgrounds have minimal tree cover. "It doesn't get much better than this. The only downside I would say is because it has that desert feel, you definitely have to lookout for snakes," cautions a visitor about the exposed nature of the landscape.
Fire restrictions: Many sites prohibit campfires during summer months due to extreme fire danger. "No fires? No problem! Very dry area covered in dry wheat and dry brush so most of the Spring/Summer/Fall campfires are not allowed," shares a camper who found other ways to enjoy their evening.
Tips for camping with families
Look for designated swimming areas: Some sites offer safer water access points. "There is a roped off swim area at the day use park," notes a visitor to Maryhill State Park, pointing out features particularly valuable for families with children.
Choose campgrounds with playground facilities: Several parks offer play structures for children. "There is a fabulous roped off swimming area and plenty of space for grass games and a nice play structure for kids," recommends a visitor to LePage Park Campground.
Consider insect protection: Some riverside areas have significant bug populations. "The major downfall was that our camp was infested with flies and earwigs which did not provide a good experience," warns a camper about their summer stay at Deschutes River State Recreation Area.
Book early for weekend trips: Family-friendly sites fill quickly during peak season. "It was full dark by the time I'd pitched it, and outfitted it with my airbed. Because of all the rattlesnake warning signs, I kept my dog leashed or tied out on a campsite-length cable," shares a camper about arrival considerations.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability varies: Not all parks offer complete services. "We stayed in the T loop in our truck camper, no hookups in this loop. But they have them in the A loop," notes a camper at Deschutes River State Recreation Area.
Pull-through site locations: Some campgrounds offer easier access spots. "Good weekend getaway from Portland. I had a decent-sized back-in site with fire ring and picnic table and room enough for my hammock. The pull-through sites run along the water's edge, offering water views but smaller pads," explains an RVer about site selection trade-offs.
Wind considerations for larger vehicles: High winds can impact RV comfort and stability. "The wind seems to never stop, though. Little shade. Plenty of sites," warns a camper at Sherman County RV Park, highlighting weather considerations for larger vehicles.
After-hours check-in procedures: Many campgrounds accommodate late arrivals. "We found the same-day after hours check-in to be easy and clearly explained, prices reasonable," shares an RVer about their positive experience with unplanned stops in this region.
