John Day Fossil Beds National Monument Introduction

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument protects one of the longest and most continuous records of evolutionary change in North America. Scientists have unearthed countless fossils of land plants and animals dating back 6 to 54 million years as well as evidence of the dramatic climatic changes that have occurred.

The monument includes over 14,000 acres found in 3 widely separated units, the Sheep Rock Unit, Painted Hills Unit, and Clarno Unit. All 3 units are in the John Day River Basin, a major tributary of the Columbia River and the longest undammed river that flows into the Columbia today.

Deep ravines and eroded, fossil-bearing formations, bisect the steep mountainous terrain, with elevations running from 2,000 to 4,500 feet within the John Day Fossil Beds. The region is categorized as a semi-arid climate, with average rainfall in the 9-16 inch range. Much of the precipitation for the area comes as snow in the winter, feeding the river and streams which are vital to the survival of many of the wildlife species inhabiting the monument.

Outdoor Activities

River Rafting is popular in the John Day National Monument. Large portions of the John Day River system are designated as a National Wild and Scenic River as well as an Oregon Scenic Waterway. The lower section of the John Day River from Tumwater Falls upstream to Service Creek is classified as recreational and has the best rafting potential. The spring flows bring the best rafting conditions with the river becoming unfloatable usually by July 4th for most boats.

Fishing is legal in the monument and elsewhere on public lands along the John Day River with the proper Oregon state fishing license. Smallmouth bass and rainbow trout are abundant. There are several also hiking trails within the monument and bicycling is allowed on main vehicle roads within the monument but not on the park trails.

Interesting Fact
The first horses evolved in North America 50 million years ago, and at least 14 different genera have been found at the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument in Oregon.

More Information
Park trails, overlooks, and picnic areas are open seven days a week during daylight hours.

The Thomas Condon Paleontology Center, located at the Sheep Rock Unit, is open daily, year round;
Winter: 9:00-4:00
Spring: 9:00-5:00
Summer: 9:00-5:30
Fall: 9:00-5:00

See the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument website for more information.