![]() HikingClarno Unit Trails CampingWhile there is no camping within the three units of the monument, there are many choices for nearby camping. River RaftingLarge portions of the John Day River system, including those travelling through John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, are designated as a National Wild and Scenic River as well as an Oregon Scenic Waterway. Spring flows bring the best rafting conditions with the river usually becoming unfloatable by July 4th for most boats. Local outfitters generally recommentd floating at levels between 1500cfs and 5000cfs. Call Oregon River Flow at 503-261-9246, visit the Oregon Water Resources Department website to determine current stream flow levels. Advance BLM/Oregon State Parks permits are required for to travel on the John Day River during the main float season between Service Creek, Clarno, and Cottonwood, regardless of distance travelled. FishingIt is legal to fish in the monument and elsewhere on public lands along the John Day River with the proper Oregon state fishing license. Smallmouth bass and rainbow trout are abundant. Note that the monument has a restriction on taking frogs and crawdads. No other special regulations apply; follow state fishing laws. For more information, contact the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife in Canyon City at 541-575-1167 Photograpy & VideographyRecreational photography is one of the most popular activities in the monument. West and Northwest facing landmarks such as the Painted Hills, Sheep Rock, and Foree are favorite evening spots. East facing landmarks such as Cathedral Rock are favorite morning spots. South facing landmarks such as the Clarno Palisades are great for photography in morning and evening. BikingSeveral Oregon Scenic Bikeways travel near or through the monument. |
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Last updated: May 8, 2022