This gravelled Back Country Byway parallels the Wild and Scenic South Fork John Day River through its incised canyon for a distance of 50 miles from its northern terminus at Dayville to the northern border of Malheur National Forest to the south. This drive takes visitors through deep canyons of Columbia River Basalts,
Maybe — confirm before you go.
This Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Official / Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.blm.gov ↗
- Contact 541-416-6700 · BLM_OR_PR_Mail@blm.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for South Fork John Day River Back Country Byway — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — This Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at South Fork John Day River Back Country Byway. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include National Forest Development Road 450, National Forest Development Road 400, National Forest Development Road 601, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — South Fork John Day River Back Country Byway is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
Depends Is hunting allowed?
Yes — hunting is permitted here in season, with the required state license and tags. Check seasons and unit rules.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Depends Are drones allowed?
Sometimes — often allowed away from wilderness and developed or crowded areas, with rules. Check locally before you fly.
Nearby sites
South Fork John Day Wild and Scenic River
ConfirmedThis site is free — no fee is charged, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
NPS Photo / Scott Ritner National Park Service John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
ConfirmedFree entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
