The John Day River is a major river located in the state of Oregon, USA. It is approximately 284 miles long and is known for its scenic beauty and diverse ecosystems. The river flows through the John Day River Basin, which is rich in wildlife and offers various recreational activities such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking. The river is named after John Day, a fur trapper who explored the area in the early 19th century. It is one of the longest free-flowing rivers in the contiguous United States, with its headwaters originating in the Blue Mountains and eventually flowing into the Columbia River.