Grant County OR Chamber of Commerce

Local Attractions

John Day, Oregon, is a land full of geological wonders and rich history. The town itself, nestled in a high desert valley, serves as a gateway to the larger John Day River Territory. This area is defined by its dramatic scenery, from rugged canyons to the meandering John Day River itself. One of the primary draws is the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, a collection of three separate units—Clarno, Painted Hills, and Sheep Rock—that together offer a world-class record of plant and animal evolution over 40 million years. The remoteness of the region ensures a peaceful and reflective experience, far from the hustle of more crowded national parks.

The Painted Hills unit, perhaps the most famous, is a must-see for any visitor. Its rolling hills are a vibrant tapestry of reds, golds, blacks, and yellows, created by layers of ancient volcanic ash and fossilized soils. The colors shift throughout the day, particularly with the changing light of sunrise and sunset, making it a photographer's dream. Walking the short, well-maintained trails allows for an intimate experience with this alien-like landscape. The Sheep Rock unit is home to the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center, where visitors can see an impressive collection of fossils and learn about the prehistoric animals that once roamed the area. The nearby Blue Basin Overlook Trail offers a stunning hike into a canyon of similarly colorful badlands.

Beyond the National Monument, there are other historical and recreational points of interest. The Kam Wah Chung & Co. Museum in John Day is a National Historic Landmark that provides a fascinating look into the lives of Chinese immigrants who settled in the area during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The perfectly preserved building, a former medical clinic and general store, is a time capsule of their culture and contributions. For those interested in outdoor activities, the John Day River, one of the longest free-flowing rivers in the contiguous United States, offers opportunities for fishing, rafting, and swimming. Its banks provide a habitat for a variety of wildlife, and its serene waters are perfect for a quiet paddle.

The region's history is not limited to just one group of people. The lands within the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument are of profound importance to the Native American communities who have long used the area for hunting, fishing, and ceremonial activities. The monument's three subunits are connected to the homelands of multiple tribes, including the Northern Paiute and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. This deep historical and cultural connection adds another layer of meaning to the landscape, reminding visitors that they are on land with a long and enduring human story. This rich context is a key part of the experience, offering a glimpse into the many layers of the region's past.

The combination of its geological marvels, like the Painted Hills, and its human history, from the early Chinese immigrants to the Native American tribes, creates a unique and compelling destination, where one can walk through millions of years of history, with each step revealing a new story etched into the landscape.

Fun Facts

John Day has one of the most significant collections of Chinese-American history in the United States.

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