Gilliam County: River Landscapes and History

Gilliam County offers a variety of experiences for your trip: In Condon, golden wheat fields and views of the Cascade Range define the landscape. Arlington is known for activities on the Columbia River, while Cottonwood Canyon State Park offers a canyon landscape shaped by the John Day River. The region’s history can also be seen in various places—from a historic river crossing to preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Landscape and Activities on the John Day River

Cottonwood Canyon State Park lies on the John Day River between Gilliam and Sherman counties. The park covers more than 8,000 acres of sheer cliffs carved by the river, side canyons and dry, rocky grasslands. The John Day River reaches the park after flowing 70 miles through deep canyons and BLM wilderness areas. This landscape shapes both the trails and the activities on the water.

The Pinnacles Trail runs 4.3 miles one way downstream along the John Day River. Hikers, cyclists and horseback riders are allowed on the Lost Corral Trail. The J.S. Burres day-use area offers a launch point for rafts, kayaks, canoes and drift boats. You can also spot Rocky Mountain elk, mule deer, pronghorn, coyotes, white-tailed jackrabbits and bighorn sheep in the park; sightings are unpredictable. In the park’s river area, anglers can catch steelhead trout, catfish and smallmouth bass. Species and regulations may change—check current state rules before fishing.

Cyclists will also find regional options: Gilliam County has hundreds of miles of car-free gravel and scenic roads. Route conditions may change; check them before setting out. Arlington is the western end of the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway and is located in Gilliam County.

Historic Sites and Buildings

The John Day Crossing Historic Site marks the place where two branches of the Oregon Trail converged at the crossing of the John Day River. A marked trail along the road above the site leads a quarter mile to a small interpretive site. From there, you can see the approach to the river crossing.

The Gilliam County Historical Museum Complex includes an 1884 homestead and a 1905 railroad depot. The complex features historic buildings with furnished interiors from different eras. The Gilliam County Historical Museum and Cottonwood Canyon State Park are stops on the John Day River Farm Trail—so along the trail, you’ll encounter both historic buildings and the park’s river landscape.

Lonerock was first settled in 1881 and was nearly abandoned by the time of World War I. The town’s Methodist Church dates to 1898 and is still used for weddings and other special events. In Condon, Main Street is listed as a National Historic Site. These places offer different historical points of reference for your trip: settlement history, a church building still in use and a protected main street.

Experience Condon and Arlington

Condon’s annual Fabulous Fourth of July celebration includes a parade and a soapbox derby; the program may vary from year to year. If you’d like to plan your trip around the celebration, check the dates and current program in advance. In Condon, Country Flowers combines a boutique with an old-fashioned soda fountain. Offerings and operating details may change.

Condon also has a well-maintained 9-hole golf course open to residents and visitors. The Condon Golf Course operates on a pay-and-play basis, with no tee times or dress code. As operating details may change, it’s a good idea to check current information before a round.

Windsurfing, kitesurfing and stand-up paddleboarding are possible on the Columbia River in Arlington and at its marina. Earl Snell Memorial Park is on a cove formed by the Columbia River, along Arlington’s shoreline. Its sandy beach has a sheltered spot to launch paddleboards; swimming to a floating dock is also possible. Unlike the activities at the marina, this park combines paddleboard access and swimming at a sandy beach. Water conditions and park facilities may change.

Discover more destinations: Arlington, Benton, Sherman, Polk County, Jackson, Grant County, Harney County, Tillamook County

For the main travel overview: Oregon.