Chimney Park

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Chimney Park is a popular destination in the state of Oregon, known for its breathtaking views and unique geological formations.


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Summary

Located in the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Chimney Park offers visitors a glimpse into the area's rich history and natural beauty.

One of the main reasons to visit Chimney Park is to see its iconic chimney formations, which were created by volcanic ash and erosion over millions of years. Visitors can also explore the nearby Painted Hills and Sheep Rock units of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, where they can see stunningly colorful rock formations and learn about the area's prehistoric past.

In addition to its geological wonders, Chimney Park is also a great place for hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along one of the many trails in the area, or relax and enjoy a picnic while taking in the stunning views.

Interesting facts about Chimney Park include that it was once a stop on the Oregon Trail, and that it was also used as a filming location for the movie Wild, starring Reese Witherspoon. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, and coyotes.

The best time of year to visit Chimney Park is in the spring or fall, when temperatures are mild and the crowds are smaller. However, visitors should be aware that the area can be hot and dry in the summer, and snowy and cold in the winter.

       

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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