Ritter Road, Middle Fork John Day River
River · Oregon
About this swimming hole
A small cliff and deep pool on the Middle Fork of the John Day River, reached by a lonely stretch of Ritter Road in Grant County. The payoff for the drive is near-total solitude on a river that stays swimmable through early summer.
Good to know
| Water type | River |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | 60-65 in summer |
| Depth | deep pool below a small cliff |
| Best season | June-August |
| Fees | Free |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | daylight hours |
| Parking | pullouts along Ritter Rd |
| Amenities | vault toilet |
| County | Grant County |
| Nearest town | Prairie City |
| Safety notes | no lifeguard; very remote; check the jump depth; bring all supplies |
Map
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Frequently asked questions
Does Ritter Road, Middle Fork John Day River require reservations?
No reservations are required at Ritter Road, Middle Fork John Day River based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Ritter Road, Middle Fork John Day River?
Reported fee info: Free. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Ritter Road, Middle Fork John Day River?
The best season is typically June-August.
⚠️ Verify before you go. Conditions, fees, reservations, and access can change — confirm details with the official link before visiting. Last verified: September 2026