Natural swimming hole
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
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Ritter Road, Middle Fork John Day River?
Yes — Ritter Road, Middle Fork John Day River is listed as a natural swimming spot in Oregon. Reported water temperature: 60-65 in summer. Heads-up: no lifeguard; very remote; check the jump depth; bring all supplies. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
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.