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Access Site OR

Mule Shoe

John Day River John Day River

Source: oregon_gov Updated 1 year ago

City: Fossil, OR
County: Wheeler County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 44.80700000, -119.96646000
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
Whitewater Run
I-II John Day - 1. NF John Day (Monument) to Service Creek
7 ft/mi
View Run
Current Conditions
-- • 1000.00-10000.00 cfs
John Day River at Service Creek, OR
About This Access Site
Mule Shoe is an unimproved boat launch providing access to the scenic John Day River near Fossil, Oregon. Located off Highway 19/207 west of Spray (approximately 10.5 miles from town), this BLM facility offers a gravel ramp suitable for launching kayaks, canoes, and small boats. The site includes 8 primitive campsites available for $5 per night, vault toilets, and picnic tables, making it a convenient basecamp for multi-day river trips. The 14-day stay limit accommodates extended paddling expeditions.

The John Day River canyon in this area is known for dramatic geology and scenic views, with ponderosa pine forests lining the banks. This access point opens opportunities to explore the river's most scenic stretches while accessing thousands of acres of public lands. Paddlers should note that this is a primitive facility with minimal amenities—facilities are basic and the boat launch is unimproved, so you'll want appropriate footwear and a sturdy boat. For more information or to confirm current conditions, contact the BLM at 541-416-6700. The nearby John Day Fossil Beds National Monument offers additional exploration opportunities in the area.
Federal Facility Information
541-416-6700 Free Access

Located just off of the sleepy John Day Highway, this campground offers 8 primitive campsites and an unimproved boat launch accessing the John Day River. The ancient river canyon weaves through the area providing spectacular views with ever-changing light and shadows in the early morning and late evening hours. A picturesque grove of ponderosa pine trees lines a section of the riverbank opposite...

Located just off of the sleepy John Day Highway, this campground offers 8 primitive campsites and an unimproved boat launch accessing the John Day River. The ancient river canyon weaves through the area providing spectacular views with ever-changing light and shadows in the early morning and late evening hours. A picturesque grove of ponderosa pine trees lines a section of the riverbank opposite the campground and the site itself has a large, solitary pine prominently situated. The surrounding layer cake geology is exposed in various peekaboo angles from the campground.Know Before You GoOpen year-roundSix drive-in campsites; two walk-to campsites.All campsites are available on a first come, first served basis; no reservations are available.Two wheelchair accessible vault toilets.No utility hookups or potable water are availableNo garbage service - please pack out your trashAn annual fire closure is in effect from June 1 through October 15. Prohibited acts include building, igniting, maintaining, attending, using, tending, or being within 20 feet of a campfire, charcoal fire, or any other type of open flame; smoking, except while in non-public buildings, closed vehicles, in boats on the water, or while standing in the water.Point of InterestAlthough located along State highway 19 the sights and sounds of the John Day River dominate over any road noise making it easy to forget the highway is even there. Bring a book as there's no cell phone coverage here.

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Nearby Campgrounds (2 within 10 miles)
Muleshoe Campground
On-site
John Day River Basin Developed Campgrounds
On-site Reservable
Nearby Recreation Areas
John Day Fossil Beds National Monument Located within