Rockin' River Ranch on the Middle Fork | Fay Ranches

ROCKIN’ RIVER RANCH ON THE MIDDLE FORK

Long Creek, Oregon

$1,450,000

238± Acres

INTRODUCTION

Rockin’ River Ranch on the Middle Fork offers a combination that has become increasingly difficult to find in the West: private river frontage, direct public land access, and a fully established recreational ranch positioned along one of Oregon’s last free-flowing river systems. Located near Long Creek in Grant County, Oregon, this 238± acre property spans nearly three-quarters of a mile along the Middle Fork John Day River and delivers the kind of outdoor lifestyle that draws sportsmen, anglers, and landowners back to Eastern Oregon year after year.

The setting is both functional and secluded. As you cross the private bridge onto the ranch, the landscape opens into a mix of river bottom, meadows, timbered draws, and mountain ground that naturally supports wildlife movement throughout the property. Deer, elk, turkey, grouse, waterfowl, and other native species regularly utilize the ranch and surrounding country, while direct access to the adjacent Malheur National Forest significantly expands the recreational footprint beyond the deeded acreage itself.

Fishing opportunities are equally compelling. The Middle Fork John Day River is recognized for native trout fishing and seasonal steelhead opportunities, allowing owners and guests to step directly from the home to the water’s edge with a fly rod in hand. Very few properties in Oregon still offer this level of private river access combined with an established homesite so close to the river corridor.

The ranch improvements support comfortable year-round ownership and off-grid living. The extensively remodeled home overlooks the river and surrounding canyon country, while additional infrastructure includes a guest cabin, shop, barns, greenhouse, storage buildings, hydroelectric power generation, solar systems, gravity-fed spring water, and a replacement dwelling permit for a future second home.

Rockin’ River Ranch on the Middle Fork is a property built around recreation, privacy, and long-term enjoyment of the land. Whether used as a seasonal retreat, hunting and fishing headquarters, or full-time residence, the ranch delivers an increasingly rare opportunity to own a meaningful stretch of river in the American West.

Rockin’ River Ranch on the Middle Fork | Long Creek, Oregon

QUICK FACTS

• 238± deeded acres with nearly 0.75± miles of frontage along the Middle Fork John Day River

• Rare grandfathered riverfront homesite located approximately 300± feet from the river corridor

• Extensive wildlife habitat supporting deer, elk, turkey, grouse, waterfowl, and black bear

• Direct access to thousands of acres of Malheur National Forest and surrounding public lands

• Strong recreational ranch setup with hunting, fly fishing, ATV riding, horseback riding, and hiking opportunities

• Native trout fishing directly on the property with seasonal steelhead fishing opportunities

• Extensively remodeled 1,903± square foot offgrid home with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms

• Hydroelectric and solar power systems designed for long-term self-sufficient living

• Gravity-fed domestic spring water system with storage infrastructure in place

• Guest cabin positioned near the river, ideal for visiting family, anglers, or hunting guests

• Replacement dwelling permit allows future expansion or construction of a second home

• Shop, barns, greenhouse, fenced pasture, licensed ponds, and supporting infrastructure already established for year-round ownership

ACREAGE

• 238± deeded acres

The Rockin’ River Ranch on the Middle Fork provides a peaceful homesite overlooking the Middle Fork John Day River and surrounding mountains. It is the only house grandfathered to be closer than 0.25± miles to the river. The ranch has unique access to thousands of acres of United States Forest Service (USFS) and Oregon State Lands that are just an ATV drive away.

IMPROVEMENTS

House

A 1986-built, 1,903± square foot two-bed, two-bath was extensively remodeled in 2022. It is one of few houses grandfathered in to sit closer to 0.25± miles from the river. It has an off-grid system, 12-250 watt solar panels, a new auto-start diesel generator, and hydroelectric power.

Appliances

• Fisher & Paykel refrigerator with ice maker

• Miele 18” dishwasher

• Kenmore propane range/oven

• Maytag washer and dryer

• 50-gallon propane water heater

• Honed granite with a chiseled edge – a large center island with 4 bar stools

• LVT flooring on upper level with tiled bathroom and fivefoot claw foot tub

• Pine flooring on lower level with tiled bathroom – large walk-in shower

• New Levelor blinds

• Blue buggy pine cabinets

• Infrared three-person sauna

• 500-gallon propane tank

• Hearthstone Soapstone wood stove

• Free-standing propane stove (for backup or when the house is vacant in the winter – house can be fully drained for winterization)

• Weyerhaeuser Choice Dek multi-level decks

• Interlocking paver patio

• 220 power system

• Solar power with new Onan diesel generator backautostart

• Hydro system licensed through the State. Hydro pond and water rights for hydro

• Spring water

• New perimeter fencing (except on the southeast portion)

• Two licensed stock ponds

• One year-round stream and one partial

RECREATION

Enjoy a range of recreational pursuits in both the Umatilla and Malheur National Forests. Fall through spring provide outdoor enthusiasts with the opportunity to ATV, hike, climb, bike, forage, and hunt throughout the region.

• Camping: Grant County offers various campgrounds and RV parks where you can enjoy the natural surroundings. Whether you prefer tent camping or RV camping, options are available in the area.

• Hiking and Backpacking: The diverse landscape of Grant County makes it an ideal destination for hiking and backpacking. You can explore scenic trails, such as the North Fork John Day River Trail or sections of the Pacific Crest Trail that pass through the region.

• Wildlife Viewing: The natural beauty of Grant County provides opportunities for wildlife viewing. Watch for deer, elk, birds, and other wildlife that call this area home.

• Scenic Drives: The surrounding countryside offers picturesque views, and a scenic drive through the area can be a rewarding experience. The landscapes of Grant County showcase rolling hills, forests, and rivers.

• Photography and Nature Observation: The area’s natural beauty, including its landscapes and wildlife, offers excellent opportunities for photography and nature observation.

HUNTING | WILDLIFE

This property is frequented by deer, elk, black bears, upland game birds, and waterfowl and qualifies for two LOP tags for bucks and two LOP tags for elk in the East Northside Unit. Food plots have been planted in the meadow grounds in the past and irrigated to bring in wildlife. There is hunting out the back gate that is accessed by a county road to thousands of acres of the Malheur National Forest and public state lands that are home to various more game species like pronghorn, bighorn sheep, cougar, wolf, coyote, and Rocky Mountain goats.

FISHING

The fishing accessibility from this property is outstanding. The John Day River runs through 0.75± miles on the property, and it is known for excellent steelhead, trout, and bass fishing.

AREA HISTORY

Ritter, Oregon, has a rich history tied to the development of the surrounding region. Here are some key points about the area’s history:

• Settlement and Homesteading: Ritter was initially settled in the late 1800s during westward expansion and homesteading. People were attracted to the area for its agricultural potential and access to natural resources.

• Timber Industry: The early economy of Ritter and the surrounding area was closely tied to the timber industry. Logging and sawmills played a significant role in the local economy, as the region had abundant forests.

• Gold Mining: Like many other parts of Oregon, Ritter experienced a gold rush in the late 1800s. The area around Ritter was known for its gold mining activities, and many people flocked to the region in search of fortune. Some remnants of mining operations and historic mining towns can still be found in the area.

• Ranching and Agriculture: As the timber industry declined, the focus shifted to ranching and agriculture. The fertile lands around Ritter were used for cattle grazing, hay production, and farming.

• The Decline and Revitalization: like many small rural communities, Ritter faced challenges in the 20th century with the decline of traditional industries and economic changes. However, efforts have been made to revitalize the area, focusing on tourism, outdoor recreation, and preserving the region’s natural and historical heritage.

Ritter remains a small community characterized by its rural charm and natural beauty. While its population has diminished over the years, it continues attracting visitors interested in the history, outdoor activities, and scenic landscapes the area offers.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES

Located near the town of Ritter in Grant County, Oregon, Ritter Hot Springs is a historic hot springs resort with a rich history. Native American tribes, such as the Nez Perce, Cayuse, and Umatilla tribes, have long recognized the healing properties of the hot springs and utilized them for medicinal and spiritual purposes. When you visit, consider booking a relaxing stay in one of their available cabins.

Just a short distance away in Pendleton, Oregon, the iconic Pendleton Round-Up takes place annually. Dating back to 1910, this rodeo event is one of the oldest and most prestigious in the United States. Spanning four days in September, the Pendleton Round-Up offers an exciting array of traditional rodeo competitions, including bull riding, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, team roping, and barrel racing.

What truly sets the Pendleton Round-Up apart is its unique and authentic Western atmosphere. It attracts top professional rodeo athletes from all corners of the country, competing for significant prize money and prestigious titles. Beyond the rodeo competitions, attendees can enjoy parades, concerts, carnival rides, and various forms of entertainment, ensuring a festive and thrilling experience.

However, what truly makes the Pendleton Round-Up special is its deep connection to cowboy and Native American traditions. The rodeo arena, known as the Happy Canyon, becomes a stage for captivating historical reenactments that depict the Old West and the rich cultural heritage of the region’s Native American tribes. Through these performances, the stories and traditions of the pioneers, cowboys, and Native Americans who played a significant role in shaping the area’s history come to life.

The Pendleton Round-Up has become an iconic event in the Pacific Northwest, attracting thousands of spectators and participants each year. It serves as a celebration of the spirit of the American West, preserving and promoting the traditions of horsemanship, rodeo, and Western culture. It is not only a thrilling showcase of rodeo skills but also a joyous celebration of community, heritage, and the enduring Western way of life.

LOCATION

Rockin’ River Ranch on the Middle Fork is located in Grant County, Oregon, in the eastern part of the state along highway 20. It is about 17 miles from Ritter, Oregon, a small unincorporated community situated in a rural area. Ritter is approximately 50 miles northeast of John Day, which is the largest city in Grant County.

AIRPORT SERVICES

Here are some of the airports that serve the area:

Eastern Oregon Regional Airport (PDT): Located in Pendleton, Oregon, approximately 150 miles northwest of Ritter, the Eastern Oregon Regional Airport is the closest commercial airport to Ritter. It offers flights to and from destinations such as Portland, Oregon, and Seattle, Washington, with connections to other major cities.

Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM): Situated in Redmond, Oregon, about 200 miles west of Ritter, the Redmond Municipal Airport serves as a regional airport and offers commercial flights to and from several major cities.

Boise Airport (BOI): Located in Boise, Idaho, approximately 180 miles southeast of Ritter, Boise Airport is another option for air travel. It provides a wider range of flight options, including both domestic and international destinations.

WATER RIGHTS

Oregon law, all water is publicly owned. With some exceptions, cities, farmers, factory owners and other users must obtain a permit or water right from the Water Resources Department to use water from any source, whether it is underground, or from lakes or streams. Landowners with water flowing past, through, or under their property do not automatically have the right to use that water without a permit from the Department. The waters of Oregon are administered by the State of Oregon under a “priorappropriation” doctrine; first in time, first in right.

Rockin’ River Ranch on the Middle Fork has 13.8± acres of Certified Water Rights of record, sourced from Middle Fork John Day River. The ranch also has a right to use waters from an unnamed stream, a tributary of Middle Fork John Day River, for hydroelectric production of up to five theoretical horsepower.

For further clarification of the ranch water rights, a certified water rights examination by a licensed professional is recommended.

MINERAL RIGHTS

All mineral rights appurtenant to the property and owned by the seller will convey to the buyer at closing. Mineral rights are not guaranteed. It is suggested that the buyer conduct a mineral search with a title company.

CONSERVATION | STEWARDSHIP

Each of us at Fay Ranches loves the land and wants to see it remain a productive agricultural ground and a quality fish and wildlife habitat. Through promoting thoughtful land stewardship, Fay Ranches has guided owners toward a legacy of conserving wide-open spaces, enhancing and creating fisheries and wildlife habitats, and implementing sustainable agricultural operations. Fay Ranches is proud to say that since our company began in 1992, our clients’ conservation ethics and land-use practices have significantly enhanced our work landscape.

SUMMARY

Rockin’ River Ranch on the Middle Fork captures the essence of what draws people to Eastern Oregon: live water, wildlife, privacy, and the freedom to live close to the land. With nearly three-quarters of a mile of Middle Fork John Day River frontage, direct access to public lands, and year-round opportunities for hunting and fly fishing, the ranch delivers a rare recreational ownership experience. The off-grid home, supporting improvements, and established infrastructure create a property equally suited for seasonal retreats or full-time living. This is a place built for owners who value wild country, moving water, and a lasting connection to the landscape.

Please contact Scott Coe at (541) 980-2252 | scoe@fayranches.com to schedule a showing. This is an exclusive listing. An agent from Fay Ranches, Inc. must be present at all showings, unless otherwise noted or other arrangements are made. To view other properties we have listed, please visit our web page at www.fayranches.com.

$1,450,000 Cash

Conventional Financing 1031 Exchange

Offer is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, change or withdrawal without notice, and approval of purchase by owner. Information regarding land classification, carrying capacities, maps, etc., is intended only as a general guideline and has been provided by the owners and other sources deemed reliable, but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Prospective purchasers are encouraged to research the information to their own satisfaction.

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