Cabins near Wasco, Oregon range from rustic to fully appointed accommodations throughout the John Day River basin. The region sits in Oregon's high desert at elevations between 1,000-2,000 feet, creating dramatic temperature swings between day and night even during summer months. Most cabin rentals require advanced planning, with reservations opening 6-9 months ahead for peak season dates between May and September.
What to do
Petroglyphs exploration: Columbia Hills Historical State Park offers archaeological sites within walking distance of the campground. "One of the best aspects was the petroglyphs that were along trails near the campground. This was a great spot and I highly recommend it!" notes Mary C. about this unique historical feature.
Water activities: Pine Hollow Lakeside Resort provides boat and paddlecraft rentals for visitors without their own equipment. "Just grab a tent and a cooler because this place has everything you need... Rent a paddle boat or even a pontoon!" explains Debbi T., highlighting the convenience for impromptu water adventures.
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions from cabin sites throughout the area. "The beautiful moonlight set one side of the canyon aglow and the clear sky was filled with stars. I didn't need my rain fly, so could enjoy finding the constellations as I lay in my tent," reports Shawn M. who camped at Lone Tree Campground.
Trail access: Multiple hiking paths connect directly to cabin areas for morning or evening walks. "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," shares Julie P.
What campers like
River proximity: Cabins at Cottonwood Canyon State Park sit close to water access points. "The John Day River is easily accessible and swimmable just down from the campsite. It's great to fish, float, or hike the trails nearby," explains Shawna M., highlighting the convenience for water-based activities.
Unique accommodations: Beyond standard cabins, specialty lodging options include elevated structures. "The treehouse is furnished with 3 queen-sized beds + a couch. It also contains most modern amenities that you would find in a hotel suite, including A/C, 2 heaters, a wood stove for heating the main area," describes Marty J. about The Klickitat Treehouse.
Cooking facilities: Many cabin properties include food preparation areas or grills for meal planning. "Nice rest room and showers. Borders a large cattle ranch so you may hear cattle mooing but that's about it. Very peaceful!" mentions David B. about the facilities at Hunt Park.
Unexpected amenities: Some cabin properties include surprising features not typically found at campsites. "There is a small store, arcade, restaurant with great pub food, ice cream, and a Bar Lounge with pool table," notes Debbi T. about the facilities at Pine Hollow.
What you should know
Wind conditions: Strong canyon breezes affect most cabin locations in the area. "It is windy! I love the wind so I found it invigorating - but it was even a bit too much for me at times. Winds hit 29 MPH at some points of our stay," cautions Adalia C. about staying at Columbia Hills Historical State Park Campground.
Train noise: Railroad lines run through the region with audible sounds at certain locations. "Day and night, semis speed past the state park on either a downhill straight away or an uphill straight away, regardless it sounds like a freight train or military landing pad all night/day long," notes Ashley B. about Brooks Memorial State Park.
Limited services: Most cabin areas have minimal commercial options nearby. "There are no stores nearby, so get your groceries in Goldendale!" advises Susan L., highlighting the importance of arriving prepared with supplies.
Cell coverage: Connectivity varies significantly between cabin locations. "Moderate Verizon cell signal. Enough to text and receive and send email," reports Beth M. about the service at Pine Hollow Lakeside Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Properties with multiple recreation choices reduce the need to travel elsewhere. "There is a small store, arcade, restaurant with great pub food, ice cream, and a Bar Lounge with pool table. Rent a paddle boat or even a pontoon! In the overflow area you can play horseshoes," explains Debbi T.
Playground access: Some cabin areas include dedicated play equipment. "Lots of dust, has a nice little restaurant on site that has good food! Quaint little lake. Playground for kids!!!! Restrooms and showers are nice," shares Amy H. about the family amenities at Pine Hollow Lakeside Resort.
Designated swimming areas: Safer water access points exist at certain properties. "This is an absolutely gorgeous place on Horsethief Lake, there's really cool petroglyphs down the road as well and close lake access. Lovely green grass and what appeared to be outdoor showers and lots of water spigots around," reports Alex P. about Columbia Hills State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Animal sightings enhance the experience for children. "In the morning, I awoke just before dawn when my dog sat bolt upright and intently watched with me as an elk cow walked through our campsite," recounts Shawn M.
Tips from RVers
Site positioning: RV cabins have varying privacy levels depending on location selection. "The RV campers told us they were also super disappointed in the site as there is no privacy whatsoever," mentions Adalia C. about Columbia Hills State Park.
Hookup availability: Electrical and water connections differ between properties. "We camped here with our UMCI Motorcycle Group, and had a great time. Good power sites, even though we were in our Motorcycle tent trailer," notes Dennis P. about Hunt Park.
Level surfaces: Cabin rental areas typically have well-prepared parking pads. "Sites are back in and have well maintained level sites of crushed gravel. The first time I haven't had to level the trailer side to side," explains Magnus S., describing the convenience at Columbia Hills State Park.
Dump station access: Some properties offer waste disposal facilities onsite. "Self register at the gate and find your spot. Nice rest room and showers," advises David B. about the straightforward process at Hunt Park.
