Maps and Guidebooks

Permits to boat between Service Creek and Tumwater Falls from May 1-July 15, 2020, are moving to Recreation.gov, where they will be available beginning March 4 at 7 am. Permits to boat other sections or dates are available here at no-charge, see below. Permits to boat upstream of Spray are available here and at launch points. Once issued, don't forget to log-in and confirm your permit between 10 and 30 days prior to your trip. NOTICES: THIRTYMILE launch access is CLOSED until April 16. For updated information, copy and paste this link into your browser: https://www.blm.gov/or/permit/application/thirtymile-info.pdf STARVATION LANE launch access is OPEN, however the ramp is washed out. The River Toilet Dump Stations at Clarno & Cottonwood are CLOSED-please make alternate plans.

The following maps and guidebook may be ordered by phone from the BLM Prineville District Office at 541-416-6700. Visa/MC and debit cards accepted. (BLM, 3050 NE 3rd St, Prineville OR 97754)

Mainstem

  1. 2005 John Day River Recreation Guide ($6)

    Kimberly to Tumwater Falls spiral-bound waterproof floater's guide. Highly recommended.

  2. 2019 Lower Deschutes & John Day Rivers ($14)

    Waterproof fold-out map covers the mainstem between Highway 26 and the Columbia River, including Service Creek to Cottonwood Bridge.

North Fork

  1. 2003 Umatilla National Forest ($14)

    Shows road access, land ownership, and topographic features. Does not denote River Miles or campsites.

  2. 2002 North Fork John Day River Interim BLM Access Map (free handout)

    Shows road access and land ownership. Does not denote River Miles or campsites.