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• Plan Your Visit

Plan Your Visit

Expect Large Crowds August 15 - 22, 2017

Many people already know that Eastern Oregon is predicted to be one of the best total eclipse viewing areas in the country. We anticipate very large crowds August 15th - 22nd, expect traffic delays, congested parking lots, and areas that are normally open may be closed and/or open to foot traffic only. Camping is not allowed in the park. Learn more about the total solar eclipse.

 

One Park, Three Units

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument consists of three units: Sheep Rock, Painted Hills, and Clarno. These three locations are dispersed through east-central Oregon. Because of the winding roads, visiting all three units is difficult to do in a single day, but is possible with an early start. The amount of time available and the route of travel taken are often the determining factors on which units you're able to visit.

Distances & Drive Time Between Units

Sheep Rock to Painted Hills - 45 mi. (1 hr.)
Painted Hills Unit to Clarno Unit - 75 mi. (1.5 hrs.)
Clarno Unit to Sheep Rock Unit - 81 mi. (2 hrs.)

Maps and More Information

This John Day Camping & Services Map (pdf file) shows the three units and the local highways which includes campgrounds, services, and certain travel information as well as GPS addresses for the three units of the monument. Please note that some services shown on the map above may not be open 7 days per week so check with the local chambers of commerce for updated information. Find out more information about Traffic & Travel Tips.