Painted Hills
The Painted Hills on a stormy winter day. NPS Photo / Scott Ritner

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

National Monument · Oregon · National Park Service

Large rhino-like brontotheres roam a semitropical forest. Dog-sized, three-toed horses dart between the trees. The cat-like nimravid and bear dogs stalk their prey. The climate cools and forests alter to dryer grasslands. Saber tooth cats and camels get replaced by mountain lions and deer. Paleontologists learn more about the ancient animals and environment with every new fossil they discover.

Plan your visit

Know before you go

Phone
5419872333
Official site
www.nps.gov
Managed by
National Park Service

Getting there

Directions on Google Maps →

What's here

Highlights: Science, Technology and Innovation · Fossils and Paleontology · Geology · River and Riparian · Trails · Unique Species

Activities & features: Hiking · Front-Country Hiking · Junior Ranger Program · Park Film · Museum Exhibits · Bookstore and Park Store

Photos

  • Clarno
    NPS Photo
  • Paleontologist at work
    NPS Photo
  • White house surrounded by green with concrete path leading to the front
    NPS photo
  • Tall sandy cliff face overlooking a small, shallow river
    NPS Photo

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Sources: National Park Service, Google Places · updated 2026-08-12