Alert: Lower Tyler Bend River Access Closed for Renovation Project

National River

Buffalo

A large bluff shelter near Buffalo Point.
Every year thousands of people hike to the Indian Rockhouse to admire this large bluff shelter. NPS Photo

Overview

Established in 1972, Buffalo National River flows freely for 135 miles and is one of the few remaining undammed rivers in the lower 48 states. Once you arrive, prepare to journey from running rapids to quiet pools while surrounded by massive bluffs as you cruise through the Ozark Mountains down to the White River.

State: AR8704392502

Hours

  • Sunday: All Day
  • Monday: All Day
  • Tuesday: All Day
  • Wednesday: All Day
  • Thursday: All Day
  • Friday: All Day
  • Saturday: All Day

Fees & Passes

    Map

    Things To Do

    Category

    6 Results
      blue river in foreground with many cars parked on tan gravel at center

      Paddling Gilbert to South Maumee

      Free

      Description

      This reach is about 12 miles which makes it one of the less crowded sections of the river.

      More info
      Pet FriendlyTime:6 Hours
      Paddleboarding the Upper District of Buffalo National River

      Paddle Kyles Landing to Erbie

      Free

      Description

      Downstream from the hustle and bustle of Kyles Landing, one can find solitude among this comparatively quiet, 5.7-mile stretch of river snaking through the Ponca Wilderness. Paddlers will cruise through adrenaline-inducing shoals, tranquil pools, and haystack waves on this section with fascinating sandstone formations adorning the banks.

      More info
      Pet FriendlyTime:3-4 Hours
      Canoeing beneath Big Bluff

      Paddle Steel Creek to Kyles Landing

      Free

      Description

      Hands-down the most beloved and popular section of the upper river, the 8-mile section from Steel Creek to Kyles Landing meanders through the heart of the Ponca Wilderness past towering bluffs, hidden side canyons, and relics of early settlement. Alternating between tumbling rapids and long, cerulean pools, paddlers will delight in the variety of pace and challenge.

      More info
      Pet FriendlyTime:4-6 Hours
      Thunder Canyon Falls, located in a canyon near the Cecil Cove Loop

      Hike the Cecil Cove Loop

      Free

      Description

      This 7-mile loop winds through the wooded valley following Cecil Creek. The trail crosses Cecil Creek 5 times in the first 2 miles, so it may not be passable during rainy season due to high water. The Cecil Cove Loop passes old home sites, historic cemeteries, and provides beautiful scenic views during leaf-off. CAUTION: Starting in 2021 the Cecil Cove Trail experienced and continues to experience landslides. Proceed on the trail at your own risk and use extreme caution.

      More info
      Ages:5Time:5-8 Hours
      A weathered old house stands in the Rush Historic District.

      Hike the Rush Mine Level Trail and Morning Star Interpretive Loop

      Free

      Description

      This .25 mile to 1.5 mile trail offers beautiful views of Rush Valley and gives hikers an understanding of the historic, mining, landscape. In the 1880s, zinc ore was discovered in the hills and claims were staked out along Rush Valley and neighboring Clabber Creek. Eventually, a community of homes and businesses developed along Rush Creek and endured until the 1960s. Come and explore this unique history as you hike Rush Mountain.

      More info
      Time:1-4 Hours
      Beaver Jim's Cabin in Starlight

      Hike the Beaver Jim Villines Homestead Trail

      Free

      Description

      This short interpretive loop begins at the Ponca Access of the Buffalo River near the intersection of Hwy. 43 and 74. Walk across the low-water bridge (when passable) and follow signs up the hill. This easy trail passes the old homestead and farm buildings of "Beaver" Jim Villines, an early fur trapper and trader in Boxley Valley.

      More info
      Pet FriendlyTime:15-60 Minutes

    More Images

    A large bluff shelter near Buffalo Point.
    A large bluff shelter near Buffalo Point.
    Kayakers floating towards Skull Rock near Buffalo Point.
    Kayakers floating towards Skull Rock near Buffalo Point.
    Camping at Steel Creek
    Camping at Steel Creek
    Floaters on the river.
    Floaters on the river.
    Historic homestead built by the Collier Family.
    Historic homestead built by the Collier Family.
    Fisherman with smallmouth bass.
    Fisherman with smallmouth bass.