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Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Powder Wild and Scenic River

North Powder, Oregon · Baker County

Flowing 11.7 miles from Thief Valley dam to highway 203 in Oregon’s Baker County, the wild and scenic Power River cuts a weathered canyon in paces up to 500 feet deep. Access is limited, so cross-country travel may be required to get to the heart of Powder River country; however, one is rewarded with plenty of solitude…

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About Powder Wild and Scenic River

Flowing 11.7 miles from Thief Valley dam to highway 203 in Oregon’s Baker County, the wild and scenic Power River cuts a weathered canyon in paces up to 500 feet deep. Access is limited, so cross-country travel may be required to get to the heart of Powder River country; however, one is rewarded with plenty of solitude for the effort.Know Before You GoCheck locally for access to the Power River; avoid trespassing by obtaining permission to cross private property.The river is sometimes kayaked during the Spring runoff period, which can be a very limited period of time. Only highly-skilled boaters should attempt kayaking the Powder River.When recreating on public lands, please practice Leave-No-Trace principles.Point of InterestLong before the arrival of pioneers and settlers, the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Nez Perce Indians utilized the hunting and fishing grounds along the length of the Powder River.

How to Get There

From Baker City, Oregon: Head north on I-84 for 5 miles and take exit 298 for Medical Springs/OR-203 toward Halnes for 0.2 miles. Turn right onto OR-203 N/Medical Springs Highway and drive 9.7 miles to a bridge over the Powder River. The wild and scenic segment is immediately upriver from this bridge.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Powder Wild and Scenic River

Heading to Powder Wild and Scenic River? 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 Powder Wild and Scenic River?

No central reservation system listed for Powder Wild and Scenic River. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/16846) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Powder Wild and Scenic River?

From Baker City, Oregon: Head north on I-84 for 5 miles and take exit 298 for Medical Springs/OR-203 toward Halnes for 0.2 miles. Turn right onto OR-203 N/Medical Springs Highway and drive 9.7 miles to a bridge over the Powder River. The wild and scenic segment is immediately upriver from this bridge.

How do I contact Powder Wild and Scenic River?

You can reach the park at phone: 541-473-3144 or email: BLM_OR_VL_Mail@blm.gov.