The best campgrounds near Heppner, Oregon with swimming

Heppner draws swimmers looking for campsites that deliver easy water access and a solid mix of facilities. With over 140 options tailored to swimming, you’ll find spots ranging from riverside pitches to farm ponds—some with showers, pet-friendly rules, and toilets on-site. Expect to pay around $50 a night, with some sites dipping as low as $30. Locals rave about Haystack Ranch (100 reviews), where you can cool off in the creek, or opt for hands-on animal encounters at Horse Feathers Pony Ranch (48 reviews) and JenEric Alpaca Ranch (46 reviews). Beyond swimming, you’ll get miles of hiking trails and even a shot at horseback riding—not bad for a weekend out of town.

92% (217)

Top-rated campgrounds near Heppner

Heppner draws swimmers looking for campsites that deliver easy water access and a solid mix of facilities. With over 140 options tailored to swimming, you’ll find spots ranging from riverside pitches to farm ponds—some with showers, pet-friendly rules, and toilets on-site. Expect to pay around $50 a night, with some sites dipping as low as $30. Locals rave about Haystack Ranch (100 reviews), where you can cool off in the creek, or opt for hands-on animal encounters at Horse Feathers Pony Ranch (48 reviews) and JenEric Alpaca Ranch (46 reviews). Beyond swimming, you’ll get miles of hiking trails and even a shot at horseback riding—not bad for a weekend out of town.

92% (217)

Top-rated campgrounds near Heppner

1. Haystack Ranch

94%

(142)

36mi from Heppner · 17 sites · Tents, RVs

My family has owned the ranch since 1977. We bought it from my parents a few years ago to keep it in the family. We love living here, and although it is just the two of us working it, we are slowly getting it to what we want it to be. The house we live in is over 100 years old and used to be a stage coach stop back in the late 1800's to early 1900's, You can still see some of the old stage coach roads on the property, and we are trying to preserve those the best we can. Also in the early 1900's this ranch used to be the place to go on the fourth of July. People from all over would bring their prize horses to compete in a horse race for the name of the fastest horses around While others would bring picnic baskets to set back on the knoll in one of our fields to watch. Learn more about this land:We are a 500 Acre working ranch located in Beautiful East Central Oregon, We are Between The stunning Painted Hills, and Umatilla National Forest. Just a few miles away from the Gorgeous John Day River, where Rafting, Tubing, Fishing, Swimming is always a welcome retreat. A few miles above us is Bull Prairie Lake and the wonderful Umatilla National Forest where hiking, sight seeing and wildlife viewing is always available.

2. JenEric Alpaca Ranch

95%

(66)

37mi from Heppner · 7 sites · RVs

Learn more about this land: PLEASE READ BEFORE BOOKING We have a small area in our Alpaca pasture designated for campers. We are a short drive (2miles) to down town Hermiston. Our ranch has been here since the 1940's and has decreased in size since its days as a potato farm. The Alpacas are shy but curious. They are not dangerous but do not like dogs 🐕‍🦺 and other small animals. (Please keep pets on a leash) We remove the Alpacas and mow the camping areas but please keep in mind that this is a pasture that is used when campers are not present. Please be prepared. This is a working ranch and there will be animals🦙 , bugs🐜 , and poop💩 in the pasture. River Front Park on the Umatilla River is within walking distance and the Columbia River is a short drive. In the summer we have several farms in the area with fresh produce for sale and  Blueberry picking just down the road. You won't want to leave town without picking up a world famous Hermiston Watermelon! Come stay with us "Where Life is Sweet!"

3. Horse Feathers Pony Ranch

100%

(85)

42mi from Heppner · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent in the extra horse pasture on this beautiful small horse ranch in Pendleton, Oregon. Kids and well behaved dogs that are UTD on vaccines are welcome. Please plan to keep your dog on a leash at the ranch as we have vulnerable critters wandering around and pick up after them. We have a couple of outdoor kennels available if you want to leave them while you go exploring in town. Campsites have access to a portable toilet, spigot and hose and cowboy shower (seasonal). Kids (and adults) can help feed the horses and chickens and meet Minerva the Minnie Pig! Pony lessons, lessons in making stone tools and tule ducks are available for an extra fee with prior arrangements. Relax and watch the wildlife. Animals you may see, hear, and smell during your visit include: raptors hunting over the grasslands; numerous swallows and songbirds; deer and elk; porcupines and skunks; and coyotes and owls nighttime serenade. Fishing, swimming and paddling in the McKay reservoir less than a mile away. Visit downtown Pendleton, home to the Round Up! The longest continuously running rodeo in the US! We have lots to do with a bustling downtown, visit the Round Up Hall of Fame,  Pendleton Underground tours, the Children’s Museum, the Pendleton Art Center and lots of great restaurants.  We have 2 tent sites that are accessible by foot you will have to pack your gear to the sites.If you want to car camp or have a van you will need to camp in our driveway space. Unfortunately we cannot accommodate tow campers the driveway is too tight. Please plan your initial check in before 9 pm as both Tom and I have to be up very early for work in the mornings. Travelers with horses are welcome. We have extra pens available with prior arrangements and for an extra fee. We have a special area for horses and horse trailers.

4. Umatilla National Forest

72%

(9)

394 sites · Summerville, Oregon

Rivers, canyons, striking peaks and abundant wildlife welcome you to an expansive Northwest forest.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

99%

(34)

637 sites · Wallowa Lake, Oregon

Trek up massive peaks or descend into cavernous canyons on Oregon’s largest national forest.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Rhea Siding

100%

(2)

34mi from Heppner · 6 sites · RVs

Over 100 years ago this historic location was once a “Siding” (loading zone) along the railroad where hundreds of sheep would board from the nearby ranches. Today, it’s a desolate, 160 acres of high desert sage where the only noise you hear at night are the coyotes. Just five miles off of I-84, ten minutes from Arlington, and 25 from Boardman. Full hookup and wifi included.

7. Umatilla Marina & RV Park

41mi from Heppner · 38 sites

Discover the unique charm of Umatilla Marina and RV Park, where a blend of outdoor adventure and serene relaxation awaits. Whether you're seeking a cozy overnight stay during your travels, a picturesque picnic spot by the river, or a prime location for fishing, hunting, or water skiing, our park has everything you need for an unforgettable experience. Our dedicated and friendly staff is committed to ensuring your visit is enjoyable and memorable. The Columbia River serves as our main attraction, offering a variety of activities throughout the year. Guests can indulge in fishing, hunting, water skiing, and river cruising, all while taking in the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets as cruise ships, tugs, and barges glide by. Year-round sightseeing opportunities abound, with attractions such as the McNary Dam and Interpretive Center, as well as scenic trails at the McNary Wildlife Nature Area. Wine enthusiasts can tour Columbia Crest Winery, while history buffs will appreciate Fort Henrietta and Pendleton Woolen Mills. For a taste of the Old West, don’t miss Hermiston's Farm City Pro Rodeo or the iconic Pendleton Roundup. Umatilla Marina features berthing for up to 97 boats, accommodating lengths from 24 to 60 feet. Monthly and yearly rental options are available,

8. Boardman Marina & RV Park

35mi from Heppner · 31 sites

Boardman Marina Park RV Campground stands out as a premier destination for travelers exploring the scenic Columbia River in North-Central Oregon. This inviting campground features 63 paved RV campsites, providing a comfortable and relaxing environment for your stay. Guests can take advantage of a variety of amenities, including a 3-mile walking and biking trail that winds through the park, perfect for leisurely strolls or invigorating rides. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the basketball court, softball and baseball fields, and sandlot volleyball area. Families can enjoy the children's play structures, horseshoes, and a designated swimming area, all set amidst lush green grass, shady trees, and expansive open spaces. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure or a peaceful retreat, Boardman Marina Park RV Campground offers the ideal base for your Oregon getaway. With its unique blend of recreational opportunities and natural beauty, this campground is sure to enhance your travel experience.

Public campgrounds near Heppner

Coalmine Hill Campground

17mi from Heppner · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Umatilla National Forest

Penland Lake Campground

20mi from Heppner · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · in Umatilla National Forest

Bull Prairie Lake Campground

27mi from Heppner · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Umatilla National Forest

Divide Well Campground

27mi from Heppner · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Umatilla National Forest

Fairview Campground

28mi from Heppner · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Umatilla National Forest

Gold Dredge Campground

39mi from Heppner · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Umatilla National Forest

Drift Fence Campground

39mi from Heppner · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · in Umatilla National Forest

Bear Wallow Creek Campground

41mi from Heppner · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Umatilla National Forest

Frazier Campground and Trailhead

47mi from Heppner · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Umatilla National Forest

Frog Heaven Forest Camp

48mi from Heppner · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

Lane Creek Campground

49mi from Heppner · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Umatilla National Forest

Tollbridge Campground

50mi from Heppner · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Umatilla National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Shane

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Haystack Ranch

The host was great, the space was great, the scenery was great and the area was great. Will definitely be staying here again.

J

John

October 2025

20 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Haystack Ranch

This was an amazing property. Big area, lots of trees. Space for an RV, but not at all the locations, mainly just one but an RV can honestly park anywhere it wants, just might not have a picnic table readily available but the hosts will get you one. There's a cool outhouse and hand wash station. The best part is its only 30 minutes from John Day Fossil Painted Hills. There's a cool bar and pizza food truck about 3 miles away and the town of Spray has the basic necessities. The hosts let you use their water hose that's at the edge of their house property on the fence next to the road so you can top off your RV when you get there and refill canisters if you run out. Overall great site, low frills, primitive location.

J

Jess

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Haystack Ranch

Super beautiful and private! Picnic tables were a fun surprise. The outhouse was clever and clean!

S

Samantha

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Haystack Ranch

Beautiful part of the state with wide open grass lands and interesting geological sites. The camp was quiet and comfortable. We had trees for shade and were an easy walk from the nicely maintained outhouse. A pump handwashing station was a nice touch. Plenty of camp site options with level ground for camper vans (or tents/RV's). Be prepared for lots of prickly bur buttercup, black medic, chickweed, and thistle.

Mary

August 2025

15 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Haystack Ranch

As noted the site is a bit hard to find from the south but google maps does get you to the correct spot. Just look for the secluded picnic table. Our host was fantastic and offered us some fresh picked produce. This is a beautiful area and I will stop again.

Debra

August 2025

45 ft Class A

With pets

2 nights at Umatilla Marina & RV Park

Clean. Showers were wonderful. Nice view of marina. Very helpful staff

E

Elena

August 2025

30 ft campervan

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Haystack Ranch

Tent camping was great! Had the place to ourselves out of sight from the main house. The out house and sink were amazing to have! Super kind host and got a few bars of soap which are lovely. She even sent us off with some fresh veggies! Will definitely want to stay here again.

a

andrew

July 2025

24 ft toy hauler

With pets

1 night at Rhea Siding

This washout first Hipcamp experience. We decide to stay at this location on our way to Idaho to break up our drive. The location is easy to find and very quiet with the only sounds of coyotes at night. The owners dog was quick to greet us and played with our dog. He was so nice he played next to our trailer for most of the night and kept the coyotes up on the hill all night long. Jarrod was a great host and made sure to say hello to us after we arrived and to make sure everything was good and offer any help. He also stopped by in the morning to tell us goodbye. There is zero cell service at this location so if you need to contact Jarrod prior to arrival make sure you do so before you get near hos place. once connected to WIFI there everything was good to go. the water,power, and sewer hookup were good and reliable. if you are going to use the sewer you may want to make sure you bring an extra long hose or hook 2 together. All in all I would recommend this location to anyone and will stay here again in the future.

S

Shell

July 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to JenEric Alpaca Ranch

Great to communicate with. It's definitely a farm. Loved it!!!

C

Callie

July 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Haystack Ranch

Very relaxing place! Toilet was very clean and well taken care of. Spaces were spread far enough apart for some privacy. You get to choose the available space you want when you arrive which is nice. The house is just down the road so getting water is super convenient!

S

Saraju

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Haystack Ranch

Great property and amazing views. Also wonderful, accommodating host. Very helpful and sweet person.

A

Allison

July 2025

22 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Haystack Ranch

Plenty of space, pretty quiet, and nice night sky views. Some spots in full sun and some in shade. Easy to find and get settled and bought some fresh eggs in the morning for breakfast from the host. At the time we were there (early July), there was a lot of foxtail grass all around, so FYI if you have a dog.

S

Seth

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Haystack Ranch

It's a nice spot to camp. Here is an additional sentence to meet the 50 character minimum.

Christopher

June 2025

20 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Haystack Ranch

Haystack Ranch was a nice quiet place to camp. The views were nice and birds were singing. I loved the wild turkeys roaming about.

L

Lori

June 2025

19 ft Class B

With pets

4 nights at Haystack Ranch

My second time at Haystack Ranch. The area is so beautiful and a great base camp for exploring the area and the John Day River. The hosts are prompt in replying, and they want to make sure your experience at their ranch is welcoming and enjoyable. The best toilet and wash basin I've ever seen. Ingenious. I love it here, see you next year ❤️

B

Beverly

June 2025

20 ft Class B

4 nights at Haystack Ranch

Wow, Kelly and Andy are running an exceptional camp experience! We stayed 4 days, visited the river and great spots, and returning to our base camp. The toilet and wash station were clean, the hosts truly great folks... Thanks for a wonderful John Day River adventure, love you guys !!

B

Beth

June 2025

25 ft Class C

Group trip

1 night at JenEric Alpaca Ranch

Such a lovely place to stop. The alpacas and pigs are so cute and friendly! Great hosts! Definitely looking forward to coming through this area and staying again. (For those that might be sensitive to noise, it is located between two busy streets. For us, that was no big deal as it was more like white noise.)

J

Jyll

June 2025

Tent

2 nights at Haystack Ranch

The area was wonderful. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to get to the pond due to things being overgrown. We made the best of it and had a great time being away from everything.

G

Grant

May 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Haystack Ranch

Great location, friendly host and beautiful landscape! Also, the beef is delicious.

Shana

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Haystack Ranch

Absolutely wonderful hosts! Very off grid and quiet. Wonderful place to stargaze and just be disconnected from society for a bit. Not far away from John Day National Monument and we saw some really cool fossils. Bathroom did just have a curtain but I did feel privacy and not unsafe at all.