Plan your visit to chief joseph days
Everything you need to know before you ride into Joseph, Oregon — from parking and camping to accessibility and local attractions.
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getting here
Chief Joseph Days Rodeo takes place at the Harley Tucker Memorial Arena, just a short walk from downtown Joseph.
Arena Address: 405 W Wallowa Ave, Joseph, OR 97846
Driving Directions:
From La Grande → 70 miles NE via OR-82 (≈ 1 hr 20 min)
From Enterprise → 6 miles S on OR-82 (≈ 10 min)
From Wallowa Lake → 2 miles N (≈ 5 min)
Street parking is available throughout town, with designated lots near the arena. Shuttle details will be posted closer to major events.
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Where to Stay
If you’re visiting for Chief Joseph Days Rodeo or any of our events throughout the year, the Chief Joseph Days Campground offers convenient, affordable, and family-friendly accommodations right next to the arena.
Chief Joseph Days Campground
Located on 30 acres just west of the Harley Tucker Memorial Arena, our dry campground provides easy access to every CJD event.
Open April- October for RVs and tents
Self-Serve / First-Come Basis (no reservations)
$20 per night regular rate
$30 per night during Chief Joseph Days Week and special events
Pet-Friendly (leashed dogs welcome)
Potable water & dump station behind the Joseph Fire Department
Payment via lockbox on-site (cash, check, or card)
Address: Just West of the Harley Tucker Memorial Arena, 405 W Wallowa Ave, Joseph, OR 97846.
Arrive early for the best spots — especially during rodeo week.
Other Lodging Options
For hotels, motels, or vacation rentals around Wallowa County, visit the Wallowa County Chamber of Commerce for a complete lodging directory.
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Parking & Entry Information
Arena Parking: Limited space near the Harley Tucker Arena — arrive early or carpool when possible.
Downtown Parking: Free parallel parking on Main Street and side streets.
ADA Parking: Reserved accessible parking near the South Gate (permit required).
Entry Gates: Open 90 minutes before each performance.
Beer Garden: Open to 21 + guests with valid ID.
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Food, Vendors & Local Flavor
During Chief Joseph Days Rodeo Week, the arena grounds transform into a hub of great food and Western shopping. Visitors can choose from 6–8 food and drink vendors plus a few specialty merchandise booths offering unique finds.
On the Rodeo Grounds You’ll Find:
Slow-smoked BBQ plates and pulled pork sandwiches
Authentic Mexican dishes and street tacos
Classic carnival favorites — burgers, corn dogs, fries, and lemonade
Sweet treats like kettle corn, ice cream, and shaved ice
Specialty merchandise vendors with Western gifts and rodeo gear
Food and merchandise vendors are open daily Wednesday through Saturday of Rodeo Week and throughout Saturday morning for the parade.
When You’re in Town
Outside of rodeo week, Joseph’s Main Street offers year-round restaurants and shops just a short walk from the arena. Stop by Embers Brew House, Stubborn Mule, and many more, or explore local galleries and Western boutiques for a taste of Joseph any time of year.
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Accessibility & Service Animals
Chief Joseph Days Rodeo is committed to making our events accessible for all guests.
Accessible seating near the bottom rows of each grandstand.
Accessible restrooms at the West end of the Arena attached to the Thunder Room.
ADA parking near the South Gate off of Hurricane Creek Road.
Service animals are welcome when under control and trained to perform a task. Emotional-support animals are not permitted.
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What to Bring to Chief Joseph Days
Western hat & sunscreen
Light jacket for cool evenings
Cash for vendors and concessions- Cards are accepted but cash is faster
Rodeo tickets- electronic or printed
Lawn chair for parades or trail ride events
Valid ID
Your rodeo spirit
PROHIBITED ITEMS
PROFESSIONAL CAMERAS WITH A LENSE OVER 3 INCHES- PER PRCA RULES
OUTSIDE DRINKS
COOLERS
GLASS CONTAINERS
LAWN CHAIRS
FAQs
Where is Chief Joseph Days Rodeo held?
All four PRCA performances take place at the Harley Tucker Memorial Arena, 405 W Wallowa Ave, Joseph, Oregon — just a short walk from Main Street.
Where can I stay during Chief Joseph Days?
Our Chief Joseph Days Campground offers dry camping right next to the arena and is open year-round.
Are the beer gardens open every night
The Beer Gardens are open Thursday through Saturday. 21+ only.
how do i become a volunteer?
Visit our Volunteer page for information on how to sign up, or contact the CJD Office at (541) 432-1015.
What time do the gates open?
Grandstand seating gates open at 6pm. The gates to the grounds are open all day for the public to come check out vendors, special events and slack events in the arena.
are there atms on site?
Yes — there is an ATM located near the main entry to the Thunder Room and on the Northside grandstands during rodeo week. Many vendors also accept credit or debit cards but cash keeps lines moving quicker.
What if it rains?
Chief Joseph Days Rodeo goes on rain or shine! Most covered seating remains dry, and guests in General Admission are welcome to bring small rain gear (no large umbrellas).
Can I bring my dog to the rodeo?
Only trained service animals are permitted inside the arena seating areas. Emotional support animals and pets are not allowed in the grandstands or Beer Garden. All dogs are welcome in the campground but must remain leashed outside of RV/tents.
do kids need tickets
Children 6 and under are free on Wednesday (Family Night). On all other nights, children who require their own seat must have a ticket.
how do i become a vendor?
Vendor applications will be available in January exact date TBD. Check out our Vendor page for more information.
Still have questions? we’re happy to help.
