The Deschutes River enters southern Wasco County
from Jefferson County. The approximately 100 mile section
from the Pelton Dam near Warm Springs and Madras in
Jefferson County to the mouth of the Deschutes 12 miles
east of The Dalles where it empties into the Columbia is
listed as a National Wild and Scenic River. The Deschutes in this section flows mostly isolated
from the view of main roads. There are however several
access points, private roads, and a railroad. Tiny
communities exist along the river, but these are
primarily railroad, ranch, and vacation homes. Many are
accessible only by private road. Some are accessible only
by boat. The only town located on the Deschutes is
Maupin, about
midway through the wild and scenic section. For part of the scenic section, the river forms the
eastern boundary of the Warm Springs Indian Reservation.
For the last fifty miles, it forms the boundary between
Wasco and Sherman counties. The Deschutes is known for its whitewater and for
its native trout, salmon, and steelhead. Beautiful
scenery and abundant wildlife also attrract visitors to
the area. Geoligists can view the cuts through basalt
formations from the John Day, Clarno, and The Dalles lava
flows. The Wild and Scenic area is managed by over a dozen
cooperating (and sometimes contentious) agencies, but the
Prineville division of the Bureau of Land Management has
primary jurisdiction. The Warm Springs Confederated
Tribes, state and county police, the City of Maupin, the
Oregon Marine Board, and others are also involved.
Permits are required to float or fish the river. These
currently can be obtained at many local retailers.
Contact the Bureau of Land Management for more
information. SEE ALSO:
Deschutes Photos
