Historic Farewell Bend State Recreation Area is located on the Oregon/Idaho border northwest of Ontario. The park features a beautiful desert experience on the banks of the Snake River's Brownlee Reservoir. Historic markers and interpretive displays provide visitors with information on Farewell Bend's significance on the Oregon Trail. The RV and tent campsites make excellent base camps as you explore the the Snake River Water Trail and other regional attractions.
Brownlee Reservoir offers fishing, water skiing and boating. For fishing information, check with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Current water levels are posted on the Idaho Power website .
The park is open for day-use year-round. The day-use area features a wide, paved boat ramp, fish cleaning station and viewing deck. There are horseshoe pits, sand volleyball court, basketball court and picnic areas for you to enjoy. You may even see wildlife, including deer, pronghorn, geese, eagles, chukars, and quail.
Camping is first-come, first-served only Oct. 1–Nov 30. Reservable sites can be booked up to 6 months in advance at oregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com. Service levels may be reduced due to Covid-19.
ADVISORY: Mosquito populations can be high during summer.
No WiFi is available at Farewell Bend State Park
Farewell Bend campground has firewood available for purchase for $5 a bundle. Ice is available for purchase, at $2 per bag. You may purchase both from Camp Hosts or a Camp Ranger when no Host is available.
Yes, your pet is welcome at Farewell Bend State Park. Leashes are required and neeed to be 6ft or less in length. Pet waste bags are provided in most areas of the park.
After following the Snake River for 330 miles, Oregon Trail pioneers rested above the bend in the river here, then bid farewell to the Snake River and continued their trek. Look for a small iron cross, visible from U.S. 30, that marks the location where the Snake River Shoshone Indians battled with pioneer travelers in 1860. Restored covered wagons rest at the park entrance and next to the Oregon Trail kiosk. You can also visit the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center on Flagstaff Hill just east of Baker City, no more than an hour's drive away.
