The Buffalo became the Buffalo National River by Act of Congress on March 1, 1972, as was the first river ever designated as a "national river", a designation that protects natural rivers from dams, empoundments and other obstructions that change the character of the river and disrupt the natural land and water life that flourishes there.
The Lower Buffalo is a popular spot for almost any recreational boater who wants to appreciate one of the most beautiful and serene rivers to be found anywhere. Rapids and other hazards are almost non-existent on the lower section of the river, a section marked by flatwater and incredible scenic beauty. The photo opportunities are many, so be sure to come properly prepared with waterproof camera (or other cameras in waterproof containers) and plenty of film. There are numerous small towns in close proximity to the river so fresh supplies can be acquired if needed while on a river trip. Numerous liveries are located near the river offering boat rentals, shuttles, guide services, cabins and campgrounds and other services. The Lower Buffalo tends to run low and slow during periods of prolonged drought, so plan your trips carefully. Allow adequate time for the distance you plan to paddle with consideration given to flow rate, weather, season and other important factors that can make or break a trip.
Because the Buffalo National River sits within US Forest Service land camping along the river can be done anywhere there is a suitable spot available. Numerous improved camping areas have been developed along the Buffalo River for the benefit of those paddling the river (most are not all that hospitable to access via cars.) You will camp among many species of trees, wildflowers, towering multi-colored cliffs and bluffs and a beautiful river. Fishing for smallmouth, largemouth, spotted and rock bass, sunfish, perch, catfish and about 50 other species is excellent in the cool, clear waters of the Buffalo. Be sure you have a valid Arkansas fishing license if you plan on wetting a line!
The Buffalo National River stretches some 150 miles from the headwaters near Boxley in the Boston Mountains range of the Ozark Mountains across northeastern Arkansas to its confluence with the White River. It is situated in Newton, Searcy, Marion and Baxter Counties. The Lower Buffalo flows through Searcy, Marion and Baxter Counties in a generally east-west direction.
Little Rock 145 miles; Texarkana 285 miles; Dallas 420 miles; Memphis 255 miles; San Antonio 690 miles; Houston 670 miles (all distances are approximate and depend upon starting point and destination point on the river.)
The Lower Buffalo River is not as seasonal as the upper and middle sections, and can generally be floated when the other sections are too low to enjoy, especially during the hot summer months. Look for a minimum reading of 0.9 feet at the gauge on Highway 14 near Harriet. Best paddling level is 1.5 - 4.0 feet on the same gauge. The gradient on the Lower Buffalo is a mere 3 feet per mile, so don't expect fast moving water or big rapids.
This section of the Buffalo National River is not subject to the same low water conditions as the other two sections, and enjoyable paddling can be done year around, weather permitting. The Missouri Ozarks can get quite cold in winter and fairly hot in the summer, so plan your trip and pack your gear and clothing accordingly.
There are no hazards of any significance on the Lower Buffalo River. This is a section that anybody, regardless of paddling skills, can readily enjoy. What the river lacks in "excitement" is more than offset by the natural beauty of the surrounding hills, bluffs and banks.
Buffalo Camping and Canoeing access at Gilbert at 0.0 miles; Gilbert NPS Access; Maumee NPS North Access from Morning Star off Highway 27 at 12.0 miles; Dillard's Ferry NPS Access and Campground at Highway 14 outside Evening Star at 22 miles; Buffalo Point NPS Access and Campground off Highway 268 at 23 miles; Rush Landing NPS Access and Campground, off Highway 26 near Rush, at 30 miles (by Clabber Creek); Buffalo City NPS Access off Highway 126 at 54 miles.
The National Park Service (NPS) has numerous campground facilities, in varying stages of improvement, all along the Buffalo National River. Some of these are free of charge while others are fee-based, and all are available on a first come, space available basis. These campgrounds incude Steel Creek NPS Access and Campground (off Highway 74, about 2.8 miles below the Ponca put-in); Kyle's Landing NPS Access and Campground (from Highway 74 at Mount Sherman - look for the signs); Erbie NPS Access and Campground (from Highway 43 at Compton take the dirt road to Erbie, then follow the signs on the dirt road to the access and campground at 16 miles below Ponca; and Ozark NPS Access and Campground (from the dirt road off Highway 7, near Pruitt at about 23 miles below Ponca. There are numerous other undesignated areas where camping along the river can be done. Take precautions against rising water when camping along the Buffalo, or any other river. Some of the roads leading to the above listed campgrounds may not be accessible to large vehicles and/or long trailers. The roads are unimproved, winding and narrow with low hanging tree branches and limbs. Do NOT drive vehicles onto gravel bars near the river unless you have deep pockets or are prepared to self-extract your vehicle. There are at least six commercial campgrounds located near the top of this reach of the Buffalo National River.
There are at least six commercial outfitters offering rentals and shuttles on this reach of the Buffalo National River. During peak months advanced reservations are strongly recommended for boat rentals. Arkansas liveries charge a fair but high price for personal boat and passenger shuttles, or you may be able to find local drivers who can and will negotiate a fee for such services.
The Lower Buffalo is a quiet river for most of its journey of 54 miles, though it can rise near the confluence if a dam release is occurring on the White River. With a very gradual gradient, the Lower Buffalo flows slow, but the scenery along the way is spectacular. Arkansas generally gets most of its rain during the winter and early spring months, so this is the time when the level is best, but the Lower Buffalo can usually be paddled or floated when the other sections are too low to enjoy. Expect some walking during prolonged dry spells.
On a personal note, I have enjoyed a good rapport with Ben and Cindy Fruehauf, owners of Gilbert General Store and Buffalo Camping and Canoeing. Their services are highly recommended, though other liveries in the area may also provide exemplary service and competitive prices. Ben Fruehauf is the Mayor of Gilbert, though you would not know it by talking to him.
