John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

Overview

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is managed by National Park Service and is located near Mitchell, Oregon. Colorful rock formations at John Day Fossil Beds preserve a world class record of plant and animal evolution, changing climate, and past ecosystems that span over 40 million years. Exhibits and a working lab at the Thomas Condon Visitor Center, as well as scenic drives and hikes at all three units, allow visitors to explore the prehistoric past of Oregon and see science in action.

Things to Do at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

Recreation Activities

Popular activities at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument include:

Nearby Activities

Plan Your Visit

Getting There

John Day Fossil Beds encompasses 14,000 acres in three geographically separated units in Oregon: Sheep Rock Unit, Painted Hills Unit, and Clarno Unit. The Sheep Rock Unit is located between the towns of Dayville and Kimberly. The Painted Hills Unit is located 9 miles northwest of of the town of Mitchell. The Clarno Unit is located on Highway 218 twenty miles west of the town of Fossil.

GPS Coordinates: 44.62566500000000, -119.88114899999999

Contact & Resources

Phone: (541) 987-2333

Additional Information:

Additional Information

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