Painted Hills Overlook

The Painted HIlls is the most dramatic of the three units that make up John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. Any trip to Eastern Oregon via Rt 26 requires a stop at the Painted HIlls to take in the unique landscape.

John Day Fossil Beds are fee-free and as you enter you will see an area with bathrooms, picnic tables, and water fountains. This is the only place to find them, so stop there first if you need to make use of the facilities. Otherwise proceed along Bear Creek Road until you see a parking area on your left. This is the Painted Hills Overlook. A pathway runs from the parking area up the hill, giving you different vantages to admire the scenery. Keep to the paths as there is tender vegetation and footprints can damage the Painted HIlls.

The best time to photograph the Painted Hills is after it's rained or at sunset, which brings out the colors. Sunset,the more predictable option, can be crowded but worthwhile. Take time to photograph the Painted Hills from different areas along the Overlook Trail as well as the hillside behind you. A wide angle lens comes in handy when trying to capture the hills.

Lodging: After a sunset shoot, you'll probably be looking for a place to stay that night. Camping and lodging in this area can be pretty limited, and you are not allowed to camp anywhere within John Day Fossil Bed Monument. The closest town, Mitchell, allows campers in it's town park for a small fee. Another close option with more privacy is Ochoco Divide Campground in the Ochoco National Forest. This campground has no running water so be sure to bring your own.