Tri Cities is a good base of operations, the Blue Mountains along the 395 line, even along the interstate, have gobs of potential and a good road network. Northeastern Oregon is pretty much "real" and not a tourist magnet, but the welcome mat is out for the adventurous. Only concern I would have is, there's a lot of up and down, and some highways pose a challenge for trailering.
You're sure to find what you'll like.
