Steve Roelof Website
The John Day River Basin, in northeastern Oregon, is ruggedly beautiful country featuring mountainous terrain, steep river canyons, and rich wildlife habitat.
Absent of dams and among the longest free-flowing rivers in the nation, the John Day River is home to wild steelhead, Chinook salmon, bull trout, westslope cutthroat trout, and interior redband trout.
Cottonwood Canyon Riparian Soundscape
Western Rattlesnake
Also known as the Great Basin Rattlesnake, these pit vipers have buff-tan coloring and small, oval blotches to blend into their arid surroundings. Small heat-sensing indentations on each side of the snake’s snout detects warm-blooded prey for better striking accuracy in the dark. Source: The Oregon Encyclopedia
Latin name: Crotalus oreganus lutosus
Terry Butler, 2018 Volunteer of the Year
“If I have to pick a favorite place in Oregon’s high desert, it would be Sutton Mountain, but I’m excited about all of the Wilderness Study Areas,” says Terry, adding, “Each is a gem to explore, and I hope they all get protection someday… I love the scale of the physical beauty of the desert.”
The John Day River Basin is a geologic wonder, where Oregon’s ancient history is on display. The region’s famous John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is a starting point for exploring 50 million years of natural wonders.
For decades, Oregon Natural Desert Association has aimed to protect and restore this region’s natural legacy. From critical habitat for fish and wildlife, to the captivating experience the region offers visitors and beyond, the John Day River Basin is worthy of strong conservation action. ONDA’s vision for new protections centers on Sutton Mountain.
Mark Darnell
At 4,700 feet tall, Sutton Mountain towers over the surrounding landscape. With a steep, craggy west side and a rolling, grassy eastern face, the mountain is an alluring mix of […]
Read MoreSleep under the stars at one of our favorite campgrounds, or find local lodging options.
Expect small town hospitality and charm at these cafes.
Lace up your hiking boots, pack your waders, or a raft. Beautiful views and solitude await you however you choose to explore this region.
Be prepared with advice, links, and further reading.
Author: Matt Wastradowski | Published: August 20, 2020 | Updated: November 3, 2021 | Categories: Where-to; In the News You may have heard about the new proposal to establish a […]
Read MoreONDA is the only organization dedicated exclusively to protecting Oregon’s high desert public lands. We work across millions of acres of eastern Oregon’s public lands to protect wilderness, conserve essential […]
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