John Day OregonATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near John Day, Oregon.
1. John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
ANCIENT GEOLOGICAL WONDERS
John Day Fossil Beds National Monument showcases the remarkable geologic past of Oregon with a large variety of fossils and dramatic landscapes. Visitors can explore the fossil gallery, watch the park film, earn a Junior Ranger badge, and learn about living on the land at Cant Ranch. The monument is divided into three units, each offering unique hiking trails and spectacular views of colorful rock formations.
2. Kam Wah Chung State Heritage Site
CHINESE IMMIGRANT HISTORY
Kam Wah Chung State Heritage Site chronicles the rich history of Chinese immigrants in eastern Oregon. The museum is typically open from May through October, offering free guided tours that are recommended to be booked in advance due to their popularity. This historical gem provides visitors with authentic insights into the lives and contributions of Chinese Americans in the region.
3. John Day River
UNDAMMED NATURAL WONDER
The John Day River is one of the longest undammed rivers in the United States and serves as a tributary to the Columbia River. Recreational opportunities vary by season and include white water rafting, fishing, and scenic photography. The beautiful, meandering river offers visitors year-round access to enjoy its natural beauty and surrounding landscapes.
4. Malheur National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS EXPLORATION
Malheur National Forest provides extensive outdoor recreational opportunities in the John Day area. The forest features diverse ecosystems, wildlife viewing opportunities, and miles of hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. During drought conditions, wildlife sightings may be less frequent, but the natural beauty of the forest remains impressive.
5. A Bit of Europe Antiques
UNIQUE VINTAGE FINDS
A Bit of Europe Antiques offers a selection of vintage and European-style collectibles in John Day. The shop features a variety of antique items that appeal to collectors and those seeking unique decorative pieces. Visitors are encouraged to browse the store's distinctive inventory while experiencing small-town Oregon shopping.
6. Sumpter Valley Railroad
HISTORIC RAILWAY JOURNEY
The Sumpter Valley Railroad offers visitors a glimpse into the vital role railroads played in eastern Oregon's history. Regular train rides and seasonal special events allow guests to experience travel as it was in days gone by. The railroad makes for an excellent day trip from John Day or can be visited en route to the area from points east.
7. Sumpter Valley Dredge
GOLD MINING HISTORY
The Sumpter Valley Dredge is one of three historic dredges used in the first half of the 20th century to extract gold from the nearby river. Visitors can walk through the preserved dredge and learn about the area's gold mining history through educational signage. Nearby trails showcase the environmental impact of dredging, with piles of rocks still visible from decades past.
8. Cant Ranch
PIONEER RANCHING HERITAGE
Cant Ranch provides a fascinating glimpse into the pioneer ranching lifestyle that shaped the John Day region. Located within the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, the ranch offers educational exhibits about living off the land in early Oregon. Visitors can explore the historic buildings and grounds while learning about the intersection of human settlement and the natural environment.
9. John Day Golf Club
SCENIC DESERT GOLFING
John Day Golf Club offers golfers a chance to enjoy the sport amid the stunning eastern Oregon landscape. The course provides a relaxing outdoor experience with views of the surrounding mountains and natural terrain. Golfers of various skill levels can appreciate the well-maintained greens and friendly local atmosphere.
10. Glad's Gift Shop
LOCAL SOUVENIRS AND GIFTS
Glad's Gift Shop is a charming local store offering special souvenirs and gifts in downtown John Day. The shop features a friendly staff and a wide selection of items that showcase Oregon craftsmanship and local themes. Visitors appreciate the shop for its unique inventory both inside and outside the store.
11. Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site
RIVERSIDE CAMPING DESTINATION
Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site provides a peaceful camping and picnicking area along the John Day River. The site offers shaded campsites, access to the river, and opportunities to observe local wildlife. Visitors can enjoy fishing, photography, and relaxing in a natural setting just outside the city of John Day.
12. John Day Painted Hills
COLORFUL GEOLOGICAL FORMATIONS
The John Day Painted Hills feature striking layers of red, gold, black, and tan soils that showcase millions of years of geological history. This unit of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument offers several short hiking trails that allow visitors to experience the remarkable colors and textures up close. The hills are particularly photogenic during morning and evening golden hours when the sunlight enhances their vibrant hues.
13. Strawberry Mountain Wilderness
ALPINE HIKING PARADISE
Strawberry Mountain Wilderness offers over 68,000 acres of pristine mountain terrain in the Malheur National Forest near John Day. The wilderness area features alpine lakes, meadows filled with wildflowers in season, and the 9,038-foot Strawberry Mountain peak. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and camping in this spectacular natural setting.
14. Grant County Historical Museum
REGIONAL PIONEER HERITAGE
The Grant County Historical Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of the John Day region and greater Grant County. Exhibits feature artifacts from Native American cultures, the gold rush era, and pioneer settlements that shaped the area. Visitors can explore historical photographs, tools, household items, and documents that tell the story of eastern Oregon's development.
15. Blue Mountain Outfitters
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE GEAR
Blue Mountain Outfitters provides essential equipment and expert advice for outdoor adventures in the John Day region. The shop offers fishing gear, camping supplies, hiking equipment, and local knowledge about the best recreation spots. Visitors planning to explore the John Day River or surrounding wilderness areas can find everything they need for a successful outdoor experience.