Cottonwood/ J.S. Burres

**Location & Access**
Cottonwood Park provides a boat launch at Cottonwood Bridge (Highway 206) at river mile 39.7 on the John Day River in Gilliam County. The take-out is located on river right below the bridge. No camping is available at the access site itself, but Cottonwood Canyon State Park (Oregon's largest state park) is located across the river and offers nearby camping options.

**Paddling & Boating Information**
The 69-mile reach from Clarno to Cottonwood is closed to motorized boats year-round. Downstream from Cottonwood Bridge, motorized boats are prohibited May 1 – September 30. All boats must be clean, drained, and dry before launching. Check current ODFW regulations before your trip, as the John Day has experienced recent steelhead fishing closures due to low population numbers. Dispersed camping and established campsites are available between Thirtymile Creek and Cottonwood Bridge for multi-day floaters. Downstream take-outs include Giles French Park near Rufus (free access, I-84 exit 109) or Le Page Park at the river mouth (fee required, I-84 exit 114).