From its headwaters to Camas Creek, the North Fork of the John Day River is
one of the most important rivers in northeast Oregon for the production of
anadromous fish. Wildlife found along the river's corridor include mule deer,
elk, and black bears, along with peregrine falcons and bald eagles. Recreation
opportunities include hunting, fishing, sightseeing, horseback riding, hiking,
snowmobiling, skiing, camping, and whitewater rafting.

The John Day River system is fortunate to have designation under two important
river preservation programs: the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act and the
Oregon Scenic Waterways Act. Together, these two acts, one a federal program
and one a state program, provide the best protection available today for the
natural, scenic, and recreational values of our river environments.

## Know Before You Go

  * Permits: An online boating permit is required year-round to boat the John Day Wild and Scenic River between Service Creek and Tumwater Falls. Permits can only be obtained on recreation.gov, which offers a site for John Day River Day Use Permits and John Day River Overnight Permits.
  * Carry Out Human Waste: On overnight trips, all boaters are required to carry and use a leak-proof, portable, reusable toilet system to remove solid human waste from the river canyon. The toilet must be large enough to service the entire party for the complete length of the trip. Toilets using plastic bags are not acceptable, with the exception of the Wag Bag or similar human waste pouch designed for this purpose, which are permitted. Used Wag Bags must be transported in a leak-proof container. River toilet dump stations are not available at the takeouts. Dumpsters are provided at Clarno and Cottonwood during high season. A list of RV dump stations is posted on BLM bulletin boards. Disposing of Wag Bags in a river toilet dump station or vault toilet is prohibited.

For more information about the John Day River including what to know before
you go, please visit: John Day Wild and Scenic River.

## Point of Interest

The John Day River is one of the longest free-flowing rivers in the
continental United States and is the longest undammed tributary of the
Columbia River.

<p>From its headwaters to Camas Creek, the North Fork of the John Day River is one of the most important rivers in northeast Oregon for the production of anadromous fish. Wildlife found along the river's corridor include mule deer, elk, and black bears, along with peregrine falcons and bald eagles. Recreation opportunities include hunting, fishing, sightseeing, horseback riding, hiking, snowmobiling, skiing, camping, and whitewater rafting.</p><p>The John Day River system is fortunate to have designation under two important river preservation programs: the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act and the Oregon Scenic Waterways Act. Together, these two acts, one a federal program and one a state program, provide the best protection available today for the natural, scenic, and recreational values of our river environments.</p><h2>Know Before You Go</h2><ul><li>Permits: An online boating permit is required year-round to boat the John Day Wild and Scenic River between Service Creek and Tumwater Falls. Permits can only be obtained on <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/" rel="nofollow">recreation.gov</a>, which offers a site for <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/permits/621745" rel="nofollow">John Day River Day Use Permits</a> and <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/permits/621746" rel="nofollow">John Day River Overnight Permits</a>.</li><li>Carry Out Human Waste: On overnight trips, all boaters are required to carry and use a leak-proof, portable, reusable toilet system to remove solid human waste from the river canyon. The toilet must be large enough to service the entire party for the complete length of the trip. Toilets using plastic bags are not acceptable, with the exception of the Wag Bag or similar human waste pouch designed for this purpose, which are permitted. Used Wag Bags must be transported in a leak-proof container. River toilet dump stations are not available at the takeouts. Dumpsters are provided at Clarno and Cottonwood during high season. A list of RV dump stations is posted on BLM bulletin boards. Disposing of Wag Bags in a river toilet dump station or vault toilet is prohibited.</li></ul><p>For more information about the John Day River including what to know before you go, please visit: <a href="https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotteries-and-permit-systems/oregon-washington/john-day-river" rel="nofollow">John Day Wild and Scenic River</a>.</p><h2>Point of Interest</h2><p>The John Day River is one of the longest free-flowing rivers in the continental United States and is the longest undammed tributary of the Columbia River.</p>

## Overview

The Central Oregon Field Office of the Bureau of Land Management oversees four
separate fee campgrounds within the John Day River Basin in Central Oregon.
Service Creek and Muleshoe Campgrounds are located near Service Creek, Oregon
along the John Day River and State Route 207. Big Bend and Lone Pine
Campgrounds are located between Kimberly and Monument along the North Fork of
the John Day River and State Route 402.

The region is rural and tends to be quiet except during spring boating and
fall hunting seasons. At around 2,000 feet in elevation, you'll see mostly
sage and juniper with the occasional ponderosa pine. This area is a high-
desert, so expect highly variable weather conditions especially in the spring
and fall. Mid-summer tends to be very hot, but the river is nearby if you need
to cool off. The winter is often cold and still.

Campgrounds are open year-round, and sites are first-come, first-served only.
Reservations are not available. You must physically arrive at the campground
to purchase and claim your campsite. Once on-site, you can pay for your
campsite(s) by scanning the QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app. The
QR code is posted at the campground kiosk.

**There is no reliable cell service** at any of the campgrounds. **Download
the free Recreation.gov mobile app****on Android or iOS prior to your
arrival.** You will be able to reserve your campsite using the app even
without cell service. Your payment will process once you return to cell
service. The most reliable cell service in the region is in Spray.

Fees can also be paid with check or cash using the fee envelope and drop box
at each campground. Refer to the onsite campground kiosk for further
instructions.

## Recreation

Many travelers visit this region along the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway .
Beginning in Biggs and ending in Baker City, Oregon, the Scenic Byway travels
286 miles through northcentral and eastern Oregon. John Day River Basin
Developed Campgrounds make for a great resting point along this scenic and
historic journey. They are also well situated if you are interested in
visiting the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument .

The John Day River Basin is well known for its river related activities. These
include fishing, boating, photography, wildlife viewing, camping, and simply
relaxing by the river. The spring snowmelt attracts boaters from around the
country. Both Service Creek and Muleshoe serve as common entry points to boat
the Wild and Scenic section of the John Day River. A permit is required year-
round to boat between Service Creek and Tumwater Falls. For further
information visit the John Day River Day Use Permits and our John Day River
Overnight Permits webpages.

## Facilities

The John Day River Basin Developed Campgrounds are **basic** in both design
and amenities. Each campsite is flat and has a fire ring and picnic table.
Each campground has an ADA accessible vault toilet. **No garbage collection or
drinking water** is available at any of the campgrounds. There is **no
reliable cell phone coverage**.

**Service Creek Campground** has four walk-in only tent sites in a one acre
area under large ponderosa trees. All sites are close to each other. You must
walk your camping equipment into the campsites. Parking is available in a
large, open gravel lot. Service Creek is also a boat launch and is a great
location to camp the night before a river trip. Boaters often leave trucks
with trailers in the parking lot while on the river. The mornings can be busy
during spring months with boaters preparing for a multi-day river trip.

**Muleshoe Campground** has six graveled drive-in sites that are flat and
overlook the John Day River. They are all close to each other. If you are
looking for more privacy, there are two walk-in sites that are a short walk up
a hill. Muleshoe also offers a primitive boat launch.

**Lone Pine Campground** has five graveled drive-in sites that are flat. Some
of the sites are closer to the river than others. The entrance road drops down
into the campground and helps provide privacy from the main road.

**Big Bend Campground** has four graveled drive-in sites that are flat and are
all near the river. A steep gravel road leads down into the campground. The
entrance provides privacy from the road but can be a challenge to some
vehicles. Four-wheel drive and caution is recommended.

## Natural Features

All four campgrounds are on the river with the road nearby. Be ready for
goregous views of desert landscapes with steep hillsides and dark night skies.
Without a dam to tame its waters, the river changes drastically from still
pools in the summer to a cold and brown torrent in the spring. Juniper trees
and the occasional ponderosa pine will provide shade and shelter from hot
summer sun and canyon winds.

## Nearby Attractions

  * John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
  * Fossil Museum

## Charges & Cancellations

Campsites are **first-come, first-served**. No changes and **no refunds** are
available.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>The Central Oregon Field Office of the Bureau of Land Management oversees four separate fee campgrounds within the John Day River Basin in Central Oregon. Service Creek and Muleshoe Campgrounds are located near Service Creek, Oregon along the John Day River and State Route 207.  Big Bend and Lone Pine Campgrounds are located between Kimberly and Monument along the North Fork of the John Day River and State Route 402. </p>
<p>The region is rural and tends to be quiet except during spring boating and fall hunting seasons. At around 2,000 feet in elevation, you'll see mostly sage and juniper with the occasional ponderosa pine. This area is a high-desert, so expect highly variable weather conditions especially in the spring and fall. Mid-summer tends to be very hot, but the river is nearby if you need to cool off. The winter is often cold and still.  </p>
<p>Campgrounds are open year-round, and sites are first-come, first-served only. Reservations are not available. You must physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim your campsite. Once on-site, you can pay for your campsite(s) by scanning the QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app. The QR code is posted at the campground kiosk.</p>
<p><strong>There is no reliable cell service</strong> at any of the campgrounds. <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app" rel="nofollow"><strong>Download the free Recreation.gov mobile app</strong></a><strong>  on Android or iOS prior to your arrival.</strong> You will be able to reserve your campsite using the app even without cell service. Your payment will process once you return to cell service. The most reliable cell service in the region is in Spray. </p>
<p>Fees can also be paid with check or cash using the fee envelope and drop box at each campground. Refer to the onsite campground kiosk for further instructions.</p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>Many travelers visit this region along the <a href="https://www.tripcheck.com/Pages/Scenic-Byways-Journey-Through-Time#:~:text=The%20Journey%20Through%20Time%20Scenic%20Byway%20stretches%20286%20miles%20through,the%20Old%20West%20to%20life" rel="nofollow">Journey Through Time Scenic Byway</a> . Beginning in Biggs and ending in Baker City, Oregon, the Scenic Byway travels 286 miles through northcentral and eastern Oregon. John Day River Basin Developed Campgrounds make for a great resting point along this scenic and historic journey. They are also well situated if you are interested in visiting the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/joda/index.htm" rel="nofollow">John Day Fossil Beds National Monument</a> . </p>
<p>The John Day River Basin is well known for its river related activities. These include fishing, boating, photography, wildlife viewing, camping, and simply relaxing by the river. The spring snowmelt attracts boaters from around the country. Both Service Creek and Muleshoe serve as common entry points to boat the Wild and Scenic section of the John Day River. A permit is required year-round to boat between Service Creek and Tumwater Falls. For further information visit the <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/permits/621745" rel="nofollow">John Day River Day Use Permits</a> and our <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/permits/621746" rel="nofollow">John Day River Overnight Permits</a> webpages. </p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>The John Day River Basin Developed Campgrounds are <strong>basic </strong>in both design and amenities. Each campsite is flat and has a fire ring and picnic table. Each campground has an ADA accessible vault toilet. <strong>No garbage collection or drinking water</strong> is available at any of the campgrounds. There is <strong>no reliable cell phone coverage</strong>.</p>
<p><strong>Service Creek Campground</strong> has four walk-in only tent sites in a one acre area under large ponderosa trees. All sites are close to each other. You must walk your camping equipment into the campsites. Parking is available in a large, open gravel lot. Service Creek is also a boat launch and is a great location to camp the night before a river trip. Boaters often leave trucks with trailers in the parking lot while on the river. The mornings can be busy during spring months with boaters preparing for a multi-day river trip. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/muleshoe-campground" rel="nofollow"><strong>Muleshoe Campground</strong></a> has six graveled drive-in sites that are flat and overlook the John Day River. They are all close to each other. If you are looking for more privacy, there are two walk-in sites that are a short walk up a hill.  Muleshoe also offers a primitive boat launch. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/lone-pine-campground-central-oregon" rel="nofollow"><strong>Lone Pine Campground</strong></a> has five graveled drive-in sites that are flat. Some of the sites are closer to the river than others. The entrance road drops down into the campground and helps provide privacy from the main road. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/big-bend-campground-central-oregon" rel="nofollow"><strong>Big Bend Campground</strong></a> has four graveled  drive-in sites that are flat and are all near the river. A steep gravel road leads down into the campground. The entrance provides privacy from the road but can be a challenge to some vehicles. Four-wheel drive and caution is recommended. </p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
<p>All four campgrounds are on the river with the road nearby. Be ready for goregous views of desert landscapes with steep hillsides and dark night skies. Without a dam to tame its waters, the river changes drastically from still pools in the summer to a cold and brown torrent in the spring. Juniper trees and the occasional ponderosa pine will provide shade and shelter from hot summer sun and canyon winds.</p>

<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/joda/index.htm" rel="nofollow">John Day Fossil Beds National Monument</a>   </li>
<li><a href="https://www.fossilmuseum.org/" rel="nofollow">Fossil Museum</a> </li>
</ul>
<h2>Charges & Cancellations</h2>
<p>Campsites are <strong>first-come, first-served</strong>. No changes and <strong>no refunds</strong> are available. </p>

Fees are $5.00 per site/night plus $2 for each additional vehicle over the
first vehicle, excluding towed vehicles. The Scan & Pay option is an
additional .50 cents per $10.

The John Day Wild and Scenic River with bighorn sheep in the foreground

This photo depicts the John Day River from high up on a nearby hillside with bighorn sheep in the foreground.

Site ID sign for Muleshoe Campground and Boat Launch

This photo shows the site id sign for Muleshoe Campground and Boat Launch.

Typical walk-in campsite at Muleshoe Campground

This photo depicts a typical walk-in campsite at Muleshoe Campground.

A typical campsite at Lone Pine Campground

This photo shows a typical campsite at Lone Pine with a large juniper, picnic table, and fire ring.

This photo depicts a typical campsite at Big Bend Campground.

Service Creek walk-in campsite with large ponderosa pine tree

This photo shows an example of a walk-in campsite at Service Creek with a picnic table and large ponderosa pine tree.

Service Creek Boat Launch and Walk-in Camping site ID sign

This photo depicts the Service Creek Boat Launch and Walk-in Camping site ID sign.

This imagine depicts the Lone Pine Campground site id sign.

John Day River Basin Developed Campgrounds

**Fire closure** is in effect **May 13 - October 15** due to **_very dry
conditions_**.

  * **No fires** , including propane campfires, charcoal grills, and wood pellet burning devices. Liquid fuel metal cookstoves and shielded lanterns are okay. 

  * **No smoking** except in closed vehicles, in boats on the water, or while standing in the water. Click here for more information.

Contact the field office for more information about fees and permits.

John Day Wild and Scenic River

View of Side Channel on the John Day River

Soft evening light highlights the landscape.

Horseshoe Bend, Thirtymile Wilderness Study Area

Double rainbow on the John Day Wild and Scenic River

Winter solstice morning on the Wild and Scenic John Day River, as it winds through Cottonwood Canyon

Rock Creek Recreation Site on the John Day Wild and Scenic River

What do you want from a Wilderness? Colorful geologic features! Rugged cliffs!
Unique beauty! Outstanding opportunities for solitude! A neighboring wild and
scenic river! The Spring Basin Wilderness has it all.

Designated as a wilderness in 2009, the area encompasses over 6,400 acres of
stunning scenery. Numerous vista points give the visitor a sweeping view of
the John Day River valley and solitude is provided by the remote canyons and
vegetative diversity. These highly scenic settings set the stage for
outstanding opportunities for recreation activities such as photography,
hiking, and nature study.

This area provides for a unique combination of ecosystems, including: Palouse
grassland province/wheatgrass, bluegrass, and sagebrush steppe. At present,
there are no similar wilderness areas containing both of these ecosystems with
this type of biological diversity. Most portions of the Spring Basin area
appear in a natural condition and are primarily affected by the forces of
nature.

A closer look will reveal a huge variety of wildlife species including mule
deer, chukar, golden eagles, prairie falcons, bobcats, California quail,
meadowlarks, and mountain bluebirds. The northern bald eagle is also an
occasional winter resident.

Four plant species of special interest have been found within the area. Two
species, _Castilleja xanthotricha_ (yellow-hairy indian paint brush) and
_Astragalus diaphanus_ , are Federal candidates for listing under the
Endangered Species Act. The other two, _Penstemon eriantherus var. argillosus_
(fuzzytongue penstemon) and _Pediocactus simpsoni var. robustior_ (Hedgehog
cactus), are of limited concern within Oregon, according to the Oregon Natural
Heritage Database.

Outstanding opportunities for solitude can be found in the numerous side
canyons. Hay Bottom Canyon and Eagle Canyon offer some of the best solitude.
There are also numerous other areas offering visitors secluded spots.

## Leave No Trace Principles

  1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
  2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
  3. Dispose of Waste Properly
  4. Leave What You Find
  5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
  6. Respect Wildlife
  7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

## Regulations

Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport are generally
prohibited on all federal lands designated as wilderness. This includes the
use of motor vehicles (including OHVs), motorboats, motorized equipment,
bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of
aircraft including helicopters, unless provided for in specific legislation.
In a few areas some exceptions allowing the use of motorized equipment or
mechanical transport are described in the special regulations in effect for a
specific area. Contact the agency for more information about regulations.

The adjacent Pine Creek Conservation Area requires a free Daily Access Permit
to recreate on this property.

<p>What do you want from a Wilderness? Colorful geologic features! Rugged cliffs! Unique beauty! Outstanding opportunities for solitude! A neighboring wild and scenic river! The Spring Basin Wilderness has it all.</p><p>Designated as a wilderness in 2009, the area encompasses over 6,400 acres of stunning scenery. Numerous vista points give the visitor a sweeping view of the John Day River valley and solitude is provided by the remote canyons and vegetative diversity. These highly scenic settings set the stage for outstanding opportunities for recreation activities such as photography, hiking, and nature study.</p><p>This area provides for a unique combination of ecosystems, including: Palouse grassland province/wheatgrass, bluegrass, and sagebrush steppe. At present, there are no similar wilderness areas containing both of these ecosystems with this type of biological diversity. Most portions of the Spring Basin area appear in a natural condition and are primarily affected by the forces of nature.</p><p>A closer look will reveal a huge variety of wildlife species including mule deer, chukar, golden eagles, prairie falcons, bobcats, California quail, meadowlarks, and mountain bluebirds. The northern bald eagle is also an occasional winter resident.</p><p>Four plant species of special interest have been found within the area. Two species, <em>Castilleja xanthotricha</em> (yellow-hairy indian paint brush) and <em>Astragalus diaphanus</em>, are Federal candidates for listing under the Endangered Species Act. The other two, <em>Penstemon eriantherus var. argillosus</em> (fuzzytongue penstemon) and <em>Pediocactus simpsoni var. robustior</em> (Hedgehog cactus), are of limited concern within Oregon, according to the Oregon Natural Heritage Database.</p><p>Outstanding opportunities for solitude can be found in the numerous side canyons. Hay Bottom Canyon and Eagle Canyon offer some of the best solitude. There are also numerous other areas offering visitors secluded spots.</p><h2>Leave No Trace Principles</h2><ol><li>Plan Ahead and Prepare</li><li>Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces</li><li>Dispose of Waste Properly</li><li>Leave What You Find</li><li>Minimize Campfire Impacts</li><li>Respect Wildlife</li><li>Be Considerate of Other Visitors</li></ol><h2>Regulations</h2><p>Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport are generally prohibited on all federal lands designated as wilderness. This includes the use of motor vehicles (including OHVs), motorboats, motorized equipment, bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of aircraft including helicopters, unless provided for in specific legislation. In a few areas some exceptions allowing the use of motorized equipment or mechanical transport are described in the special regulations in effect for a specific area. Contact the agency for more information about regulations.</p><p>The adjacent Pine Creek Conservation Area requires a free <a href="https://lands.warmsprings-nsn.gov/daily-access-permit/" title="Daily Access Permit" rel="nofollow">Daily Access Permit</a> to recreate on this property.</p>

John Day Wild and Scenic River

Know Before You Go

Point of Interest

Directions

Stay Limit

Reviews

Campgrounds

John Day River Basin Developed Campgrounds

Nearby Parks

Spring Basin Wilderness