🚣 River
Lower Deschutes River
About This Permit
The Lower Deschutes is Oregon's most popular multi-day river trip — a 100-mile float from Maupin to the Columbia River through basalt canyon with reliable Class III whitewater. BLM permit required for the permitted section. The river runs year-round and is a prime steelhead fishing destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Deschutes River permit section?
The permitted section covers the lower 100 miles from Macks Canyon down to the Columbia River. Permits are required April 15 – October 31 and managed by BLM Prineville District through recreation.gov. Daily launch quotas apply.
What are the major rapids on the Lower Deschutes?
White Horse (Class III+) and Boxcar (Class III+) are the most technical and the common flip zones for unprepared paddlers. Both can be scouted. The river otherwise flows at a manageable Class II–III gradient.
Is the Deschutes good for fishing?
Yes — one of Oregon's premier steelhead and trout rivers. Summer steelhead run through August–October; rainbow trout fishing is excellent year-round below Pelton Dam.
Key Facts
- State
- OR
- Float Season
- Boater Passes required year-round for anyone using a watercraft on the Lower Deschutes River (permit section from Maupin to Columbia River)
- Launch Quota
- No specific daily launch quota; limited entry by segment with group size limits — 16 people max for Segments 1, 3B & 4; 24 people max for Segments 2 & 3A
- Put-in
- Primary put-ins at Maupin area (BLM boat ramps); Macks Canyon is a mid-trip campground and the end of the upper permitted section, not the main put-in
- Take-out
- BLM access points near Maupin (most common launch); Heritage Landing is at the downstream end near the Columbia; Harpham Flat and Sandy Beach access points require tribal permits (Warm Springs Tribe)
- Difficulty to get permit
- 2/5(Moderate)
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