Dispersed camping opportunities near Wasco, Oregon provide alternatives to established campgrounds across the high desert plateau. The region sits at approximately 1,300 feet elevation with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and consistent winds that create challenging camping conditions. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing with occasional snow, making spring and fall the most moderate camping seasons.
What to do
Fishing access: Columbia River: At Avery Recreation Area, anglers can fish directly from the shoreline. "Mount Hood visible down the river. There's a pit toilet, and a garbage dumpster on-site. Over half the sites are right on the water, while the others are less than 50 feet away," notes Evan W.
Hiking trails: Desert terrain: The Lower Deschutes Trail offers biking and hiking opportunities along the river corridor. Kevin L. shares, "The entire dirt road hugged the winding river. We would bike by people every hour or so but side from that we had this epic place to ourselves." The trail extends approximately 20 miles along golden wheat fields and canyon walls.
Kayaking: John Day River: Seasonal water levels determine paddling conditions, with spring offering higher flows. "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," according to Shawna M., describing experiences at Cottonwood Canyon State Park.
What campers like
Free dispersed options: No reservation needed: Free camping at Giles French Park allows stays up to 7 days. "Free camping in pull-outs or a large open space on the west end. No services except some trash bins throughout and pit toilets on the west end. We prefer the pull-outs closer to the dam as you can be semi-private and right next to the river," reports Rich J.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained restrooms: Cleanliness consistently ranks high in visitor reviews at Sherman County RV Park. "While old, the restrooms and showers were very well maintained and absolutely immaculate. And I'm an admitted and unabashed germaphobe," writes Tim T.
Quiet settings: Away from crowds: Lower traffic volumes create peaceful settings at many area campgrounds. "This is not a fancy place, but it is clean, well tended, quiet and beautiful. After 10 hours driving, I just wanted a quiet place to sleep. This was exactly that," mentions Leland about Sherman County RV Park.
What you should know
Train noise: Frequent disruptions: Railroad tracks parallel many camping areas, with trains operating 24 hours. "You don't just have trains passing, you have them blowing their horn multiple times a night, and they are close enough you can feel their vibration," warns Tavi C. about Avery Recreation Area.
Limited shade: High desert vegetation: Tree cover is minimal at most sites. "Because it was so new the trees were still saplings and provide no shade from the hot sun or protection from the wind," notes Fay M. about Cottonwood Canyon State Park.
Wind conditions: Consistent exposure: Strong winds affect tent camping and outdoor activities. "The wind seems to never stop," explains Marty S. about camping in Sherman County. Secure tent stakes and shelter setup are essential in this environment.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Designated beach access: Family-friendly water access points provide safer swimming options. "There is a really large beach and roped off swimming area, as well as a boat ramp, dock for fishing, and trails for hiking," explains Jill T. about LePage Park.
Wildlife viewing: Morning opportunities: Dawn offers the best wildlife viewing times. "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. at Lower Deschutes.
Playground facilities: Kid-friendly recreation: Some parks maintain 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," reports Jill T. about LePage Park.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through sites: Easy access: Rufus RV Park offers convenient pull-through sites for larger rigs. "Level pull-through sites with gravel and well-kept grassy areas in between. Modern bath house and laundry area," describes Andrew about this dog friendly campground near Wasco.
Dog-specific areas: Pet exercise spaces: Several pet-friendly campgrounds provide designated dog areas. "Dog-walking area. Lots of potted flowers. Distant traffic noise from I-84," adds Andrew about Rufus RV Park, noting the pet-friendly accommodations.
Hookup availability: Water and electric: Many established campgrounds offer partial or full hookups. "Separate sections for short- and long-term guests. Level pull-through sites with gravel and well-kept grassy areas in between," notes Andrew about the layout at this pet-friendly option.
