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Plan a Road Trip > Explore America > National Parks > Buffalo National River |
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402 N Walnut, Suite 136, Harrison, AR 72601
Phone: 870-741-5443 or 870-439-2502
Fax: 870-741-7286
Open All Year
Overview. The Buffalo River rises high in the Boston Mountains, where it begins a 150-mile journey east to its confluence with the White River. Along the way, it drops almost 2,000 feet through limestone bluffs, some as high as 440 feet, and stands of willow and sycamore. The whitewater of the upper river gives way to the lower river's serene, leisurely flow where boaters can explore a landscape of caves, waterfalls, and springs.
This pristine stream is prime habitat for smallmouth bass and over 60 additional freshwater species. Due to the Ozark's wide diversity of wildlife, white-tailed deer and raccoon share the park with armadillos and scorpions. A recently re-introduced elk herd appears to be thriving along the banks of the upper river.
Archaeologists have found evidence of habitation along the Buffalo that dates back 10,000 years. More recently, pioneers built cabins along the banks, and historic farms are still being worked in the area.
The National Park Service protects the lower 135 miles of the river and maintains three separate wilderness areas along its banks: the Upper and Lower Buffalo Wilderness Areas at the western and eastern ends of the park, and the Ponca Wilderness Area between Ponca and Kyles Landing.
What to see and do. Floating the Buffalo is the most popular activity along the river, and it goes on year round. Most of the upper river's Class I and II rapids are only open in late winter and during the spring, when runoff is at its height. The lower river provides a leisurely float for canoe, tube, or flat-bottomed johnboat any time of the year, but you'll probably be most comfortable making the trip during the summer. The river is full of pools just perfect for swimming, but be aware that there are no lifeguards posted anywhere along the banks and you should never swim alone. Be alert for high water; the river can rise quickly and quietly.
Anglers won't be disappointed dipping their lines into the Buffalo. It is a blue-ribbon smallmouth bass stream, but hosts a great many other species as well, including catfish, sunfish, goggle-eye, largemouth and spotted bass. A valid state fishing license is required and all state and National Park Service regulations and limits must be observed. In addition to fishing from the bank, many anglers swear by float fishing from johnboats along the lower stretch of the river.
Hunting in season and with a valid state permit is allowed as long as National Park Service regulations are observed. Hikers should be careful in the woods and dress colorfully, especially during fall deer season and spring turkey season.
There are over 100 miles of hiking trails in the park, ranging in difficulty from short self-guided nature hikes to longer, more strenuous mountain treks. The Buffalo River Trail follows the river for 37 miles within the upper and middle river sections. Several trails are open to horses, and designated campgrounds allow horses at the site. Contact a ranger or inquire at one of the visitor centers for specific details.
Fourteen campgrounds are located in the park. Only one, Lost Valley, does not lie along the river. All are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The two most developed sites, Buffalo Point and Tyler Bend, charge a nightly fee and offer additional amenities between May and October. A few cabins and a seasonal restaurant are available from a concessionaire at Buffalo Point. Concessionaires along the river can also arrange float trips from a half-day to ten days in duration. Float fishing trips can also be arranged.
Visitor centers are located at several points along the river and include park headquarters in Harrison, open on weekdays, year round. Tyler Bend Visitor Center is the main information facility in the park proper and is open daily, year round. It is located 11 miles north of Marshall. Pruitt Ranger Station, near Jasper, is open daily between Memorial Day and Labor Day, and observes a limited schedule during the spring. There are two ranger stations at Buffalo Point; the Upper Station is open year round and the Campground Station is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. All facilities are open from 8 AM to 4:30 PM. Rangers guide hikes and float trips during the summer, and offer evening campground programs then, as well. Summer visitors can partake in Ozark craft and music demonstrations. All schedules are available at visitor centers and ranger stations.
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Archeological Sites |
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Bird Watching |
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Boat Launching |
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Caving |
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Fishing |
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Food Service |
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Geological Sites |
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Gift Shop |
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Guided Tours |
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Hiking/Nature Trails |
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Historic Sites |
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Horse Trails |
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Museum/Exhibits |
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Non-motor Boating |
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Picnic Sites |
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Programs/Talks |
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Self-guided Tours |
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Swimming |
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Visitor Center |
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Whitewater Sports |
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Wildflower Viewing |
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Wildlife Viewing |
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Please call ahead to confirm details. We do our best to give you current information, but facts can change. Please let us know if you find something's changed.
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