Boardman is located northwest of Pendleton in the Umatilla National Forest, between Irrigon and Arlington at the US Hwy 730 and I-84 intersection. This community is also situated within the Umatilla Nat'l Wildlife Refuge Complex on the banks of the Columbia River.

The Sam Boardman homesteaded was built in the area in 1903. In 1917 Umatilla River irrigation water became available, and many homesteaders came to north Morrow County. A small town evolved on the Historic Columbia River Highway. Most businesses moved when the Highway was rebuilt a mile south of the original townsite in 1952.

In the 1960's, Boardman moved south again to avoid the rising lake behind the new John Day Dam. Boardman is now located in its third (hopefully final) location. This town has been one of Oregon's fastest growing in population.

There is also a Boardman, Ohio.