Le Page Park

For Oregonians, the call of the wild is never far, and finding that perfect spot to connect with our state’s incredible natural landscapes is a constant pursuit. LePage Park, situated at the unique confluence of the John Day and Columbia Rivers near Rufus, Oregon, offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the majestic beauty of the Columbia River Gorge. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this campground provides a well-equipped and scenic base for a wide array of outdoor activities, making it a favored destination for locals seeking both adventure and relaxation.

As residents of Oregon, we appreciate accessible yet naturally rich locations that allow us to immerse ourselves in the environment without sacrificing comfort. LePage Park strikes this balance beautifully. Whether you're an avid angler, a boating enthusiast, or simply looking to unwind by the water's edge, this campground presents a compelling option for your next outing. This article will delve into what makes LePage Park a go-to spot for Oregonians, covering its strategic location, comprehensive services, unique highlights, and why it's perfectly suited for those who call the Pacific Northwest home.

LePage Park is a popular and well-regarded campground known for its prime location where the John Day River meets the mighty Columbia River, just a few miles from Rufus, Oregon. It serves as a gateway to Lake Umatilla, the reservoir created by the John Day Dam, offering expansive water recreation opportunities. The park is characterized by its open, grassy areas, lined with mature shade trees, providing a welcoming environment amidst a high desert climate. It’s a versatile campground, catering to both RV enthusiasts with electric hookups and traditional tent campers, with designated walk-in tent sites.

The essence of LePage Park lies in its focus on water-based activities and its proximity to a significant natural landmark. Visitors frequently highlight the ease of access to the river for boating, fishing, and swimming. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages the park, ensuring a well-maintained facility with essential amenities that contribute to a comfortable stay. This balance of natural beauty and practical facilities makes LePage Park a highly appealing choice for Oregonians looking for a memorable camping experience along the Columbia River.

LePage Park is located in Oregon, near the town of Rufus, with the specific address being Oregon 97065, USA. More precisely, it is found at the confluence of the John Day River and the Columbia River, approximately five miles east of Rufus, directly off Interstate 84 (I-84). This makes it incredibly convenient and accessible for travelers from across Oregon, particularly those coming from Portland or other points along the I-84 corridor.

To reach LePage Park from The Dalles, Oregon, travelers can take I-84 eastbound for about 30 miles, taking exit 114 and following signs to the John Day River. Its location adjacent to I-84 means excellent road access, suitable for all types of vehicles, including large RVs and trailers. While the interstate is nearby, visitors often note that traffic and train noise are present but generally not intrusive, allowing the natural sounds of the river to dominate. This ease of access, combined with its stunning riverside setting, makes LePage Park a highly practical and desirable destination for a quick weekend trip or an extended outdoor adventure for Oregon residents.

• Diverse Campsite Options: LePage Park offers a variety of campsites, including 22 sites with electric hookups (30/50 amp) suitable for RVs and trailers (accommodating lengths between 32 and 56 feet), and 20 primitive walk-to tent sites.
• Restroom Facilities: The campground provides both flush and pit toilets, ensuring convenience for all campers. Showers are also available, although some reviews suggest checking their specific location relative to your site and water temperature.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available throughout the park, allowing campers to easily refill their supplies.
• Dump Station: For RVers, a convenient dump station is located on-site, also available for a fee to non-campers.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire pit with a grill, perfect for cooking and enjoying campfires (when conditions permit).
• Boat Ramp and Docks: A significant amenity is the on-site boat ramp, providing direct and easy access to the John Day River and Lake Umatilla for boating, fishing, and water sports. Remodeled docks are also available.
• On-Site Camp Hosts: Friendly and helpful camp hosts are typically present during the operating season (mid-April to mid-October) to assist with inquiries and ensure a smooth experience.
• Reservations and First-Come, First-Served: While many sites are reservable via Recreation.gov up to six months in advance, some additional tent sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed but must be kept on a maximum 6-foot leash at all times, with responsible pet waste disposal.

• Confluence of Rivers: The unique location at the confluence of the John Day and Columbia Rivers offers incredible scenic beauty and diverse recreational opportunities, appealing to both river and lake enthusiasts.
• Excellent Fishing: LePage Park is a renowned fishing destination. Anglers can target a variety of species, including smallmouth bass, catfish, sunfish, Chinook salmon, steelhead, walleye, and sturgeon. The convenient boat ramp provides easy access to prime fishing spots.
• Water Sports Haven: The calm waters of Lake Umatilla and the John Day River are ideal for a range of water sports, including swimming, water skiing, tubing, and general boating. A designated swim beach is also available.
• Abundant Wildlife: The river basin and high desert climate support a diverse array of wildlife, including mule deer, various waterfowl, and impressive birds of prey, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.
• Shade Trees: Mature shade trees line the edges of the open grassy areas, providing much-needed relief during warm summer days and enhancing the park's visual appeal.
• Proximity to John Day Dam: Located just five miles from the John Day Dam, visitors can learn about the history and function of this impressive engineering feat.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With a playground and ample space for outdoor activities, LePage Park is well-suited for families looking for an engaging and comfortable camping experience.

Address: Oregon 97065, USA (Specific location at the confluence of John Day and Columbia Rivers near Rufus)

Phone for Campground Inquiries: (541) 739-1135

Phone for John Day Lock & Dam (General): (541) 298-9712

Reservations: (877) 444-6777 (via Recreation.gov)

For Oregonians, LePage Park stands out as an exceptional and highly suitable camping destination for numerous reasons. Its strategic location at the confluence of two significant rivers and within the awe-inspiring Columbia River Gorge means that world-class outdoor recreation is literally at your doorstep. As locals, we value easy access to our state’s natural wonders, and LePage Park delivers on this, being conveniently located just off I-84, making it an ideal choice for both spontaneous weekend trips and planned longer vacations from various parts of Oregon.

The park’s versatility, offering both electrical hookups for RVs and shaded walk-in tent sites, caters to a wide spectrum of camping preferences, ensuring that everyone, from seasoned full-timers to families introducing their children to the joys of the outdoors, can find their comfort zone. The focus on water-based activities—from diverse fishing opportunities for bass, trout, and even sturgeon, to ample space for boating, swimming, and water skiing—aligns perfectly with the active Oregonian lifestyle. The presence of a well-maintained boat ramp and docks further enhances its appeal for those who love to get out on the water.

Furthermore, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' management ensures clean facilities, including restrooms and showers, which are essential for a comfortable camping experience. The availability of on-site camp hosts adds a layer of convenience and helpfulness that locals appreciate. While some campers mention occasional noise from the nearby interstate and trains, it's generally considered to be a minor trade-off for the park's superb location and amenities. LePage Park offers a genuine Oregon outdoor experience: a blend of high-quality facilities, abundant recreational opportunities, and breathtaking natural beauty, all within easy reach for residents seeking their next unforgettable adventure along the iconic Columbia River.

Le Page Park

Oregon 97065, USA