The Thomas Condon Visitor Center is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. It is open Sunday and Monday, and Thursday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
There is no entrance fee at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. Admission is free for all visitors.
From Bend, take Highway 26 east for 122 miles, immersing yourself in Oregon’s rugged beauty and ancient landscapes.
Parking lots are available but lack designated spots for RVs. Small RVs can park at the overlook, but no overnight parking is allowed. No parking fees. Motorcycles and cars can park in various lots, which close 30 minutes before/after dawn/dusk.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
In the heart of east-central Oregon, the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument stands as a testament to the region’s rich geological and paleontological heritage. Spanning 14,062 acres, this national monument is divided into three distinct units: Sheep Rock, Painted Hills, and Clarno, each offering a unique glimpse into a landscape that has been untouched for millions of years.
The Painted Hills, with their vibrant, multicolored strata, are a visual marvel, as if nature itself had painted a masterpiece across the hillsides. The area is crisscrossed by trails such as the Painted Cove Trail and the Carroll Rim Trail, which guide visitors through a kaleidoscope of colors and textures. The Sheep Rock unit, home to the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center, is a hub for fossil enthusiasts, with exhibits showcasing the park’s extensive collection of fossils from the Eocene to the Miocene eras.
Seasonal changes bring different moods to the monument; spring blooms with wildflowers, summer days are ideal for hiking and exploring, while autumn paints the landscape in warm hues and winter blankets the area in a serene quiet. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, eagles, and hawks, adding to the natural beauty of the area.
Nearby, the town of Dayville offers a charming blend of artisanal shops and local eateries. For those seeking more adventure, local outfitters provide guided tours and equipment rentals for exploring the John Day River. During the summer, ranger-led programs and fossil talks enrich the visitor experience, while the annual Fossil Fest celebrates the park’s paleontological significance.
- Area (mi²)
- 22
- Annual visitors
- 205 000
- Established year
- 1975
Top 3 Facts about John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
The Painted Hills unit records a climate shift from tropical to temperate between 34 and 32 million years ago, with soils changing from red tropical soils to lighter soils indicating lower temperatures and less precipitation, culminating in a temperate savannah with oaks and maples around 30 million years ago.
In this semi-arid landscape, vibrant wildflowers like chaenactis and bee plants bloom against the dramatic orange and red hillsides in May. Hedgehog cacti add pink accents, while 50 to 200 year old juniper trees and sagebrush dominate the shrub community. The area is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including birds, mammals like mule deer and bighorn sheep, and fish in the rivers. Over 300 plant species thrive here, protecting the soils and providing a stunning backdrop for exploration.
In the heart of a semi-arid climate, elevations range from 2,000 to 4,500 feet, with deep ravines carving through fossil-bearing formations. The John Day River, the longest undammed tributary of the Columbia River, flows through a landscape of vibrant Painted Hills, where red bands of tropical soils contrast with lighter, temperate soils, telling a story of climatic shift over 34 to 32 million years. The river’s vital waters support over 50 bird species and 40 mammal species amidst a backdrop of unique volcanic mudflows and petrified remnants of a subtropical ecosystem.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Virtual Junior Activities
- Arts & Crafts.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a 2-3 day trip to avoid rushing between units, 1-2 hours apart. Visit in spring for mild weather and the John Day Fossil Fest. Pack snacks, bring water, and rest often on rocky trails. Limited dining options; fuel up before heading out. Download maps for areas with no cell service.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable weather, sturdy hiking boots, and a multi-tool. For camping, bring a season-appropriate tent, sleeping bag, and lantern. Don’t forget headlamps, extra batteries, and a first aid kit. Check the forecast and adjust gear accordingly.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the land by keeping a safe distance from wildlife, avoiding sensitive habitats, and staying on designated trails to protect unique flora and fauna. Be mindful of seasonal changes and weather conditions to minimize your impact. Leave nothing behind but footprints.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and fast water, and check weather and fire alerts. For emergencies, call park authorities at 541-416-6700. Exercise caution around wildlife and hot springs.
Seasons
In spring, witness vibrant wildflowers and mild temperatures (60s-80s°F) amid scenic badlands. Ideal months are April and May, avoiding the summer heat. No specific annual events, but perfect for hiking and fossil exploration.
Explore 19,000 acres of fossil-rich terrain in summer’s warm temperatures (70s-90s°F). Enjoy the Bluegrass Festival in July, amid sunny days and mild evenings. Ideal for hiking and ranger-led talks, though heat can be intense.
Visit in fall for crisp 50-60°F days and golden landscapes. Enjoy the annual Fossil Fest in October, featuring paleontology talks and fossil exhibits. Mild weather makes it ideal for hiking and scenic drives through the colorful hills.
Experience the serene winter landscape from December to February, with temperatures ranging from 42°F to 24°F. Snow-covered mountains and frozen rivers create a tranquil backdrop, though cold and potential snow may limit outdoor activities. For the adventurous, it’s a time of unbridled beauty and solitude.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what John Day Fossil Beds National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit the John Day Fossil Beds, Mitchell, Oregon, is the most central city, offering a short 20-minute drive to the Painted Hills unit and convenient access to the other units.
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Dogs must be kept on a leash no more than 6 feet in length at all times. Retractable leashes that extend beyond 6 feet are not allowed. Dogs are allowed on trails but not in buildings.
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Parking is free at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. There are no parking fees for visitors, including those with RVs, campers, or other vehicles.
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Visit the Sheep Rock Unit to explore the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center, see fossils, and hike the trails. Stop by the Painted Hills Unit for its colorful striped hills and short hikes like the Painted Hill Overlook Trail. If time allows, check out the Clarno Unit for its unique rock formations and scenic views. Consider a scenic drive through the Picture Gorge and enjoy photography, especially during the late afternoon for the best light. Fishing or rafting in the John Day River can also be a great activity if you have time.