2017 Map of Clarno

About this map

The John Day River carves a deep path through the high desert of Central Oregon, defining the boundary between Wasco Co and Wheeler Co. This landscape is anchored by the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, which contains significant geological and paleontological sites such as The Palisades, Clarno Arch, and Equisetum Canyon. The settlement of Clarno serves as the local hub near the crossing of Highway 218, while the surrounding terrain is marked by distinctive landmarks like Whitecap Knoll and Black Spur. Local family history is preserved at the Tillotson Cem and Clarno Cem. The river itself remains a central feature, punctuated by the Clarno Rapids and fed by seasonal drainages like Sorefoot Cr and Pine Cr. Springs such as Willow Branch Spring represent vital water sources in this arid environment of canyons and plateaus.