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The geologic formations within the 20-square-mile area of the John Day Fossil Beds contain a remarkable, diverse fossil record covering roughly 40-million years of earth's history. This record provides a view of a large portion of the Tertiary Period, a time when mammals and flowering plants were undergoing dramatic changes. 
Painted Hills Unit
Reknowned for the varied hues found in the exposed volcanic layers. This area also is home to a diverse assemblage of leaf fossils. 
Clarno Unit
See the Palisades, a cliff formed by a series of ancient volcanic mudflows (lahars) that now is high above the surrounding landscape. 
Sheep Rock Unit
The green claystone layers seen here date back 30 million years. New vertebrate fossils continue to be exposed through natural erosion. 
Geologic Formations
Learn more about the geologic formations that exist in the park. 
Rivers and Streams
Learn about the John Day River and other rivers in the park. 
Soils
Soils are a product of the geology of the area. Read about soil in the park. |
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Last updated: August 29, 2024