John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is located in eastern Oregon and is renowned for its remarkable fossil deposits that span millions of years. The monument is divided into three units: Sheep Rock, Painted Hills, and Clarno.

Sheep Rock Unit, the monument's main visitor center, features the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center and Museum, which houses an impressive collection of fossils found within the monument. The museum offers exhibits that provide insight into the area's geology and paleontology. Adjacent to the museum, the Blue Basin Overlook Trail offers visitors a chance to explore unique rock formations and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

The Painted Hills Unit boasts vibrant colors caused by layers of volcanic ash and clay minerals. Visitors can enjoy several short nature trails, such as the Painted Cove Trail and the Red Hill Trail, which showcase the area's distinct geological features. These trails allow visitors to immerse themselves in the stunning hues and textures while learning about the forces that shaped the landscape.

The Clarno Unit, located about an hour away from the other units, showcases impressive fossilized remains of prehistoric plants and animals in a rugged setting. The most prominent feature of this unit is the Palisades, towering rock formations formed by volcanic activity. The Interpretive Trail of the Palisades offers views of these unique formations and also explores the rich cultural history of the area.

Aside from its historical and natural attractions, the monument provides opportunities for camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The Blue Basin, for example, is a popular spot for birdwatching, with more than 120 species of birds recorded in the area. There are also picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by the monument's breathtaking scenery.

For those interested in exploring the surrounding area, nearby attractions include the John Day River, known for its scenic beauty and recreational activities like fishing, rafting, and camping. The nearby town of Mitchell offers services and amenities for travelers, including lodging, dining, and shopping options. Additionally, the nearby Painted Hills Scenic Bikeway provides an opportunity for cycling enthusiasts to traverse the unique landscapes in the region.

Overall, John Day Fossil Beds National Monument offers visitors an awe-inspiring glimpse into the ancient past through its remarkable fossil deposits. The monument provides an immersive experience that combines natural beauty, scientific discoveries, and recreational opportunities, making it a must-visit destination in Oregon.

Location

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is situated in the eastern part of the state of Oregon in the United States. Spanning over 14,000 acres, this unique and picturesque monument is divided into three separate units: the Clarno Unit, the Painted Hills Unit, and the Sheep Rock Unit. Each unit showcases its own distinct geological features, displaying a rich tapestry of fossil specimens that date back millions of years. Nestled within the high desert region, the monument is characterized by its rolling hills, colorful rock formations, and dramatic landscapes. With its remote and secluded location, John Day Fossil Beds National Monument offers visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the tranquility and natural beauty of this geological treasure.

Address & Contact

32651 Highway 19
Kimberly, OR 97848
Driving Directions
Phone: 5419872333
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit John Day Fossil Beds National Monument would be during the months of July, August, and September. These months offer pleasant weather conditions with average maximum temperatures ranging from 74°F to 84°F, and average minimum temperatures between 44°F and 52°F. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation is relatively low, ranging from 0.35 in to 0.48 in. These months also see fewer visitors compared to the peak months of May and June, providing a more serene and less crowded experience.

Things to do and learn in John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in John Day Fossil Beds National Monument are: Junior Ranger Program Park Film Museum Exhibits Bookstore and Park Store Hiking Front-Country Hiking

Topics

Learn about these topics at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument: Geology Fossils and Paleontology River and Riparian Trails Unique Species Science, Technology and Innovation

Amenities

Visitor Centers

Thomas Condon Visitor Center

Located in the Sheep Rock Unit, the Thomas Condon Visitor Center is a National Park Service research facility containing an outstanding paleontology lab dedicated to the John Day Fossil Beds. Picture windows let you view the working laboratory and collections room with over 60,000 specimens. In the fossil museum gallery, you can walk through nearly 50-million years of the Age of Mammals. Hundreds of fossil specimens are displayed, along with eight large murals depicting plants and animals of the time.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Thomas Condon Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

News and Alerts

Date issued	Details
2026-07-25	Sheep Rock Unit Closed due to Shingle Fire Due to threats from the Shingle Fire which started on July 23 and is currently estimated at approximately 11,140 acres, the Grant County Sheriff’s Office has issued a Level 2 Evacuation order for the zone that includes the Thomas Condon Visitor Center of John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, and a Level 3 Evacuation order for the portion of Sheep Rock south of Picture Gorge. An Emergency Closure of the Sheep Rock Unit has been implemented to protect public safety.
2026-07-20	Painted Hills Unit Closed due to the Rowe Creek Complex Fires Due to threats from the Rowe Creek Complex which started on July 15 and is currently estimated at approximately 142,936 acres, the Wheeler County Sheriff’s Office has issued a Level 3/Go, Evacuation order for the zone that includes much of the Painted Hills Unit of John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. An Emergency Closure of the Painted Hills Unit has been implemented to protect public safety. The Unit Painted Hills Unit is closed to all entry as of 1530 hours on July 17, 2026.
2026-07-20	Clarno Unit Closed due to Rowe Creek Complex Fires Due to threats from the Rowe Creek Complex fires that started on July 15 and has burned onto the eastern edge of Clarno Unit. An Emergency Closure of the Clarno Unit has been implemented to protect public safety. The Clarno Unit is closed to all entry as of 0100 hours on July 17, 2026.
2026-07-17	Poor Air Quality Due to wildfires in the region around the park visitors should expect varying levels of poor air quality due to smoke. For current air quality check the fire and smoke map here: https://fire.airnow.gov/
2026-06-11	Great American Outdoors Act Funding Restores Historic Cant Ranch Barn and Shearing Shed The legacy of early European settlers to the John Day Basin is being safeguarded. Supported by the Great American Outdoors Act Legacy Restoration Fund signed by President Donald J. Trump in 2020, the roofs of the historic Cant barn and shearing shed were restored. More
2025-06-02	John Day Fossil Beds National Monument to host 50th anniversary events The public is invited to participate in a series of special programs the weekend of June 20-21, 2025 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. More