Grant County is a land of scenic contrasts--from dramatic geologic formations in the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, sagebrush and juniper dotting the slopes, grassy valleys, pine forests, mountain peaks to the many streams, rivers, lakes and hot springs in the area.
Natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities are abundant in Grant County year-round. Thousands of acres of public land offer backpacking, cross county skiing, snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, horseback riding or scenic driving. Camp-grounds abound, with a wide range of facilities. All or part of three wilderness areas are located in Grant County.
Maps are available at Forest Service offices in John Day, Prairie City and Dale.
Evidence of the past in Grant County goes much farther back than the historic records. The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument offers a look back through time, to the Age of Mammals, the period between the extinction of the dinosaurs and the beginning of the Ice Age. See scientists at work.