Activity

KayakingCanoeingKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Priest Hole Recreation Site

Mitchell, OR · Boat Ramp · Public

Priest Hole Recreation Site is a public boat ramp on John Day River near Mitchell, Oregon. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

River access at Priest Hole Recreation Site near Mitchell, Oregon. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Priest Hole Recreation Site offers access to John Day River in Oregon. This stretch of river draws paddlers looking for mild current conditions.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.

You can expect mild current water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Located about 20 min from Mitchell, Priest Hole Recreation Site is a convenient option for Mitchell-area paddlers.

Paddling Tips

  • River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
  • Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
  • Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
  • Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Priest Hole Recreation Site?
Priest Hole Recreation Site is a public boat ramp in Oregon. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Priest Hole Recreation Site?
Priest Hole Recreation Site supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Priest Hole Recreation Site?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Priest Hole Recreation Site?
The best time to paddle at Priest Hole Recreation Site is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Priest Hole Recreation Site?
Water conditions at Priest Hole Recreation Site include mild current.
Is Priest Hole Recreation Site good for beginners?
Yes, Priest Hole Recreation Site is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 44.7398, -120.2713

Quick Facts

State
Oregon
Region
Pacific Northwest
Getting There
~20 min from Mitchell
Get Directions

44.7398, -120.2713

Best Paddling in Oregon

Read our complete guide →

Paddler Reviews

Write a Review

0/5,000 characters

Sign in to add photos to your review.

Trip Reports

Share a trip report

Sign in to write a detailed trip report for Priest Hole Recreation Site

Sign In

Paddle Routes from Here

No paddle routes from this location yet.

Be the first to create one!