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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT

John Day River

Boating Restrictions

Non-commercial Boaters

Boater registration is required at each launch site and Leave No Trace camping including the use of river toilets and fire pans is mandatory.

Commercial Boaters

Operating a commercial business on the John Day River requires a Special Recreation Permit.
For permit application details, please call 541-416-6718 for information.
A trip is considered to be commercial

  • If any participant pays a fee that exceeds the equal sharing of trip expenses between all participants.
  • If the trip is publicly advertised.
  • If the trip includes paid staff.

Commercial Post Use Report Forms

Boating Restrictions by Type and Location

Note: McDonald Crossing is the last public launch/take-out upstream of Tumwater Falls.

Type of Boat Upstream of Service Creek Service Creek To Clarno Clarno to Cottonwood Cottonwood to Tumwater Falls
Non-Motorized Open Open Open Open
Electric Motor (40 lb. thrust or less) Open Open Closed Open
October 1 - April 30
Powerboats Open Open
October 1 - April 30
Closed Open
October 1 - April 30