About Dry River Canyon Trail
It's a small finger off the east side of the Oregon Badlands Wilderness, a nook that holds a trail that winds in and out of old, twisty juniper, bordered by steep basalt cliffs. A stretch where an ancient river cut into the canyon, once draining the ancient Lake Millican. Rounded boulders, worked by the old river, appear out of place along the now dry trail. Head out for a moderate hike for about 2.3 miles one-way, or add in an additional mile by rock-hopping an unmarked area for about 50 yards, then picking up the trail again for the last 1/2 mile.Know Before You GoOpen seasonally with a wildlife closure to all uses from February 1 through August 31st, unless lifted by BLM staff earlier.This is a primitive, rocky trail and trailhead with no water or restrooms; Practice Leave No Trace and pack out what you pack in.No motorized vehicles are allowed.Dogs are allowed.Horses are allowed, but are not advised; the trail is rocky with low-hanging branchesPoint of InterestLook up from the path of the old river and enjoy the views of exposed layers of lava and cinders from early volcanoes in this 300-foot deep canyon.
How to Get There
From Bend, Oregon: Drive 17 miles east along State Highway 20. Turn left a few hundred yards east of Milepost 17, crossing a cattle guard. Immediately bear right into the ODOT gravel area. Low clearance vehicles should park here at the information kiosk or proceed slowly as the next mile is rocky and unmaintained. From the kiosk, walk or drive 0.9 miles southeast to the end of the rough road to the trailhead kiosk.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Dry River Canyon Trail
Heading to Dry River Canyon Trail? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Dry River Canyon Trail?
No central reservation system listed for Dry River Canyon Trail. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/272115) for the latest entry policy and availability.
Is Dry River Canyon Trail accessible?
Dry River Canyon Trailhead and trail are not accessible.
How do I get to Dry River Canyon Trail?
From Bend, Oregon: Drive 17 miles east along State Highway 20. Turn left a few hundred yards east of Milepost 17, crossing a cattle guard. Immediately bear right into the ODOT gravel area. Low clearance vehicles should park here at the information kiosk or proceed slowly as the next mile is rocky and unmaintained. From the kiosk, walk or drive 0.9 miles southeast to the end of the rough road to th…
How do I contact Dry River Canyon Trail?
You can reach the park at phone: 541-416-6700 or email: BLM_OR_PR_Mail@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
