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.

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.

## Overview

Buffalo Point is a convenient, fun-filled destination for families and
adventurists of all types. It's perched along the Buffalo National River,
providing exciting river sports and hiking opportunities. In peak season, a
restaurant is open at the facility, serving up meals for those who want a
break from preparing them.

## Recreation

The wild river is a gathering place for water activities. Many campers spend
their days fishing, hiking, canoeing or kayaking. Evenings are ideal for
gathering next to the fire to revamp for another great day out on the river.

## Facilities

The wild river is a gathering place for water activities. Many campers spend
their days fishing, hiking, canoeing or kayaking. Evenings are ideal for
gathering next to the fire to revamp for another great day out on the river.

## Natural Features

The campground is set along Buffalo National River, one of the few free-
flowing rivers remaining in the contiguous United States. The river runs 135
miles without dams and cuts through the Arkansas Ozarks and into the White
River. The region is surrounded by droves of lush hardwood trees and grassy
open meadows.

## Nearby Attractions

Two popular attractions within the Buffalo Point Area are the Indian Rockhouse
Trail and the Rush Historic District. Rush was a zinc mining community until
the zinc market collapsed and the settlement was deserted. Tours about the
town's history are available. Buffalo Point is the former Buffalo River State
Park developed in the 1930's as project of the Civilian Conservation Corps.  
  
Blanchard Springs Caverns, an extraordinary living cave, is a one-hour drive
from Buffalo Point.

## Charges & Cancellations

Please see the Recreation.gov Rules and Reservation Policies.

<h2>Overview</h2>
Buffalo Point is a convenient, fun-filled destination for families and adventurists of all types. It's perched along the Buffalo National River, providing exciting river sports and hiking opportunities. In peak season, a restaurant is open at the facility, serving up meals for those who want a break from preparing them.  <h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>The wild river is a gathering place for water activities. Many campers spend their days fishing, hiking, canoeing or kayaking. Evenings are ideal for gathering next to the fire to revamp for another great day out on the river.</p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>The wild river is a gathering place for water activities. Many campers spend their days fishing, hiking, canoeing or kayaking. Evenings are ideal for gathering next to the fire to revamp for another great day out on the river.</p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
The campground is set along Buffalo National River, one of the few free-flowing rivers remaining in the contiguous United States. The river runs 135 miles without dams and cuts through the Arkansas Ozarks and into the White River. The region is surrounded by droves of lush hardwood trees and grassy open meadows.  
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
<p>Two popular attractions within the Buffalo Point Area are the Indian Rockhouse Trail and the Rush Historic District. Rush was a zinc mining community until the zinc market collapsed and the settlement was deserted. Tours about the town's history are available. Buffalo Point is the former Buffalo River State Park developed in the 1930's as project of the Civilian Conservation Corps. <br><br><a href="https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/233266" rel="nofollow">Blanchard Springs Caverns,</a>  an extraordinary living cave, is a one-hour drive from Buffalo Point.</p>
<h2>Charges & Cancellations</h2>
<p>Please see the Recreation.gov <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies" rel="nofollow">Rules and Reservation Policies</a>. </p>

Path leading to the Campground Trails at Buffalo Point

Buffalo Point Campground Trails

A view overlooking the Buffalo River as seen through the window at the Buffalo Point Restaurant.

View from Buffalo Point Restaurant

Painted Bluff at Buffalo Point with two red canoes in river.

A view of the Buffalo River from Skull Rock in the Buffalo Point Campground, looking upstream.

The view from Skull Rock at Buffalo Point

Two red canoes paddle by Painted Bluff on the Buffalo River.

Painted Bluff at Buffalo Point Campground

Swimmers at Buffalo Point

B Loop at Buffalo Point Campground

Pavilion 1

Buffalo Point

## Overview

The Erbie campground is situated along the Buffalo River under the towering a
bluff. There are five group sites available, walk-in only, for 10 to 25
people. Additionally there are 14 drive in and 13 walk in sites for groups up
to six on a first come first serve basis.

## Recreation

Floating conditions in the upper (westernmost) district of Buffalo National
River are extremely dependent upon rainfall. On an average year, the upper
river is only navigable by boat in the spring and early summer when consistent
rainfall feeds into the watershed. Some sections on the upper end of the river
are technical and should not be attempted by novices. For current floating
conditions, please check with an outfitter (visit our Guided Services web page
), or check the USGS Buffalo River Floating Conditions web page. Note,
internet and cell service is not available at this site.

## Facilities

There are no electrical amenities or water hookups, but flush restrooms and
water spigots are available from approximately March 15 through November 14
each year.

## Natural Features

The Buffalo National River flows free over swift running rapids and quiet
pools for its 135-mile (217 km) length. One of the few remaining rivers in the
lower 48 states without dams, the Buffalo cuts its way through massive
limestone bluffs traveling eastward through the Arkansas Ozarks and into the
White River.

## Nearby Attractions

There are numberous historic buildings near the Erbie Campground.

Boxley Valley is nearby and is home to Lost Valley, an easy to moderate trail
that leads hikers past geologic and water formations. Call the Steel Creek
Ranger Station at 870-861-2570 or visit the park's Hiking Trails web page for
more information..

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>The Erbie campground is situated along the Buffalo River under the towering a bluff. There are five group sites available, walk-in only, for 10 to 25 people.  Additionally there are 14 drive in  and 13 walk in sites for groups up to six on a first come first serve basis. </p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>Floating conditions in the upper (westernmost) district of Buffalo National River are extremely dependent upon rainfall. On an average year, the upper river is only navigable by boat in the spring and early summer when consistent rainfall feeds into the watershed. Some sections on the upper end of the river are technical and should not be attempted by novices. For current floating conditions, please check with an outfitter (visit our Guided Services web page ), or check the USGS Buffalo River Floating Conditions web page. Note, internet and cell service is not available at this site. </p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>There are no electrical amenities or water hookups, but flush restrooms and water spigots are available from approximately March 15 through November 14 each year.</p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
<p>The Buffalo National River flows free over swift running rapids and quiet pools for its 135-mile (217 km) length. One of the few remaining rivers in the lower 48 states without dams, the Buffalo cuts its way through massive limestone bluffs traveling eastward through the Arkansas Ozarks and into the White River.</p>

<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
<p>There are numberous historic buildings near the Erbie Campground.</p>
<p>Boxley Valley is nearby and is home to Lost Valley, an easy to moderate trail that leads hikers past geologic and water formations. Call the Steel Creek Ranger Station at 870-861-2570 or visit the park's Hiking Trails web page  for more information..</p>

Water and electrical services will be turned on Marh 15th annually with fee
collections starting on this date. Exception: if March 15th falls on the
weekend (Saturday or Sunday), systems will be turned on the preceding Friday
with fees being required on Friday. Water and electrical services will be
turned off November 15th annually with the last fees being collected for the
night orf November 14th. Exception: If November 15th falls on the weekend
(Saturday or Sunday), systems will be turned off the following Monday with
fees being collected through the weekend.

Erbie Group Site

View of Buffalo National River from the Erbie day use area

Erbie Group Sites 4 and 5 parking area

Erbie Group Sites

Erbie Group Campground

Bird's eye view of the campground

## Overview

The Ozark Pavilion sits in the middle of the Ozark Campground near the
impressive bluffs of the Buffalo River. Bring a picnic lunch or pack up your
grill for a day of fresh air and outdoor activities.  
  
The big river isn't just a picturesque backdrop for your picnic - it also
offers an array of river sports like canoeing, kayaking, tubing, swimming and
fishing.

## Recreation

The Buffalo River Trailhead is next to the pavilion. The scenic trail spans a
massive 36.5 miles (59 km) of the Buffalo River from Boxely to Pruitt, and is
ideal for hiking or backpacking.  
  
  
Peak season for canoeing, kayaking and tubing is spring to early summer.

## Facilities

The Buffalo River Trailhead is next to the pavilion. The scenic trail spans a
massive 36.5 miles (59 km) of the Buffalo River from Boxely to Pruitt, and is
ideal for hiking or backpacking.  
  
  
Peak season for canoeing, kayaking and tubing is spring to early summer.

## Natural Features

The pavilion is located along the Buffalo National River with views of lush
forests and high, riverside limestone bluffs. It is one of the few free-
flowing rivers remaining in the contiguous U.S., with 135 miles (217 km) of
undammed waters. It cuts through the Arkansas Ozarks to reach its final
destination at the White River.

## Nearby Attractions

The nearby town of Jasper offers restaurants, gas stations and groceries. The
Hilary Jones Wildlife Museum and Elk Center is just north of Jasper. It
features displays of elk, white-tailed deer and ducks, as well as freshwater
aquariums, wildlife paintings and a gift shop.

## Charges & Cancellations

Please visit the Recreation.gov Rules and Reservation Policies page.

<h2>Overview</h2>
The Ozark Pavilion sits in the middle of the Ozark Campground near the impressive bluffs of the Buffalo River. Bring a picnic lunch or pack up your grill for a day of fresh air and outdoor activities.<br/>
<br/>
The big river isn't just a picturesque backdrop for your picnic - it also offers an array of river sports like canoeing, kayaking, tubing, swimming and fishing.<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>The Buffalo River Trailhead is next to the pavilion. The scenic trail spans a massive 36.5 miles (59 km) of the Buffalo River from Boxely to Pruitt, and is ideal for hiking or backpacking.<br><br><br>Peak season for canoeing, kayaking and tubing is spring to early summer.</p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>The Buffalo River Trailhead is next to the pavilion. The scenic trail spans a massive 36.5 miles (59 km) of the Buffalo River from Boxely to Pruitt, and is ideal for hiking or backpacking.<br><br><br>Peak season for canoeing, kayaking and tubing is spring to early summer.</p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
<p>The pavilion is located along the Buffalo National River with views of lush forests and high, riverside limestone bluffs. It is one of the few free-flowing rivers remaining in the contiguous U.S., with 135 miles (217 km) of undammed waters. It cuts through the Arkansas Ozarks to reach its final destination at the White River.</p>

<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
The nearby town of Jasper offers restaurants, gas stations and groceries. The Hilary Jones Wildlife Museum and Elk Center is just north of Jasper. It features displays of elk, white-tailed deer and ducks, as well as freshwater aquariums, wildlife paintings and a gift shop.<h2>Charges & Cancellations</h2>
<p>Please visit the Recreation.gov <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies" rel="nofollow">Rules and Reservation Policies</a> page.</p>

Ozark Pavilion within the Ozark Campground

Ozark Pavilion Oct. 2021

Ozark Pavilion with electricity available

Ozark Pavilion electricity available

Ozark Pavilion

Ozark Pavilion is re-servable online at recreation.gov

View of Ozark Pavilion

Several picnic tables under the Ozark Pavilion with campsites in background

Ozark Pavilion Interior

Grill with water spigot, flush toilet and pit toilet in background

## Overview

Steel Creek Campground is situated along the Buffalo River under the towering
and picturesque Roark Bluff. One section of the campground offers 26 walk-in
tent sites and another section of the campground offers 14 sites for those
camping with horses. Half of the sites in the campground are available for
reservations. Steel Creek is located about 3 miles (5 km) east of Ponca, just
off Highway 74.

## Recreation

Floating conditions in the upper (westernmost) district of Buffalo National
River are extremely dependent upon rainfall. On an average year, the upper
river is only navigable by boat in the spring and early summer when consistent
rainfall feeds into the watershed. Some sections on the upper end of the river
are technical and should not be attempted by novices. For current floating
conditions, please check with an outfitter (visit our Guided Services web page
), call the Steel Creek Ranger Station at 870-861-2570, or check the USGS
Buffalo River Floating Conditions web page.

## Facilities

Floating conditions in the upper (westernmost) district of Buffalo National
River are extremely dependent upon rainfall. On an average year, the upper
river is only navigable by boat in the spring and early summer when consistent
rainfall feeds into the watershed. Some sections on the upper end of the river
are technical and should not be attempted by novices. For current floating
conditions, please check with an outfitter (visit our Guided Services web page
), call the Steel Creek Ranger Station at 870-861-2570, or check the USGS
Buffalo River Floating Conditions web page.

## Natural Features

The Buffalo National River flows free over swift running rapids and quiet
pools for its 135-mile (217 km) length. One of the few remaining rivers in the
lower 48 states without dams, the Buffalo cuts its way through massive
limestone bluffs traveling eastward through the Arkansas Ozarks and into the
White River.

## Nearby Attractions

The Buffalo River Trail runs through Steel Creek and offers great day hiking
or overnight backcountry opportunities.

Boxley Valley is nearby and is home to Lost Valley, an easy to moderate trail
that leads hikers past geologic and water formations. Call the Steel Creek
Ranger Station at 870-861-2570 or visit the park's Hiking Trails web page for
more information..

## Charges & Cancellations

rules and reservation policies

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Steel Creek Campground is situated along the Buffalo River under the towering and picturesque Roark Bluff. One section of the campground offers 26 walk-in tent sites and another section of the campground offers 14 sites for those camping with horses. Half of the sites in the campground are available for reservations. Steel Creek is located about 3 miles (5 km) east of Ponca, just off Highway 74.</p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>Floating conditions in the upper (westernmost) district of Buffalo National River are extremely dependent upon rainfall. On an average year, the upper river is only navigable by boat in the spring and early summer when consistent rainfall feeds into the watershed. Some sections on the upper end of the river are technical and should not be attempted by novices. For current floating conditions, please check with an outfitter (visit our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/buff/planyourvisit/guided-services.htm" rel="nofollow">Guided Services web page</a> ), call the Steel Creek Ranger Station at 870-861-2570, or check the <a href="https://ar.water.usgs.gov/buffaloriver/" rel="nofollow">USGS Buffalo River Floating Conditions web page.</a>   </p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>Floating conditions in the upper (westernmost) district of Buffalo National River are extremely dependent upon rainfall. On an average year, the upper river is only navigable by boat in the spring and early summer when consistent rainfall feeds into the watershed. Some sections on the upper end of the river are technical and should not be attempted by novices. For current floating conditions, please check with an outfitter (visit our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/buff/planyourvisit/guided-services.htm" rel="nofollow">Guided Services web page</a> ), call the Steel Creek Ranger Station at 870-861-2570, or check the <a href="https://ar.water.usgs.gov/buffaloriver/" rel="nofollow">USGS Buffalo River Floating Conditions web page.</a>   </p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
<p>The Buffalo National River flows free over swift running rapids and quiet pools for its 135-mile (217 km) length. One of the few remaining rivers in the lower 48 states without dams, the Buffalo cuts its way through massive limestone bluffs traveling eastward through the Arkansas Ozarks and into the White River.</p>

<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
<p>The Buffalo River Trail runs through Steel Creek and offers great day hiking or overnight backcountry opportunities. </p>
<p>Boxley Valley is nearby and is home to Lost Valley, an easy to moderate trail that leads hikers past geologic and water formations. Call the Steel Creek Ranger Station at 870-861-2570 or visit the park's <a href="https://www.nps.gov/buff/planyourvisit/hiking-trails.htm" rel="nofollow">Hiking Trails web page</a>  for more information..</p>
<h2>Charges & Cancellations</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies" rel="nofollow">rules and reservation policies</a> </p>

Steel Creek Horse Camp-2

Steel Creek Campground-9

Steel Creek Campground-2

Steel Creek Campground-7

Steel Creek Campground-4

Steel Creek Campground-6

Steel Creek Campground-5

Steel Creek Horse Camp-1

Main walk-in camping area at Steel Creek Campground.

Steel Creek Campground-1

The roads , horse camp, and river area of the Steel Creek area.

View of the Steel Creek area from the Buffalo River Trail

Steel Creek Campground-3

Steel Creek Campground-8

Steel Creek Campground

## Overview

Campers will delight in the picturesque river views at Tyler Bend. Located 11
miles (18 km) northwest of Marshall, Arkansas, Tyler Bend is set on a quiet,
peaceful section of the great Buffalo National River. Known as the middle
river region, the campground offers tranquil views of the river beside
pastures.

## Recreation

Small-mouth bass, catfish and sunfish are the most popular fish to catch on
the Buffalo River, but visitors should be aware that an Arkansas fishing
license is required to fish anywhere on the river.  
  
  
The middle river location also allows for extended seasons for kayaking and
tubing. If there's enough rain, the sports can go through mid- to late summer.  
  
  
Get a dose of history by hiking to the Collier Homestead, a restored Ozark
dwelling from the 1930's. The homestead remembers one of the homes built by
settlers in response to the Homestead Act of 1862.

## Facilities

Small-mouth bass, catfish and sunfish are the most popular fish to catch on
the Buffalo River, but visitors should be aware that an Arkansas fishing
license is required to fish anywhere on the river.  
  
  
The middle river location also allows for extended seasons for kayaking and
tubing. If there's enough rain, the sports can go through mid- to late summer.  
  
  
Get a dose of history by hiking to the Collier Homestead, a restored Ozark
dwelling from the 1930's. The homestead remembers one of the homes built by
settlers in response to the Homestead Act of 1862.

## Natural Features

The Buffalo National River flows free over swift running rapids and quiet
pools for its 135-mile (217 km) length. One of the few remaining rivers in the
lower 48 states without dams, the Buffalo cuts its way through massive
limestone bluffs traveling eastward through the Arkansas Ozarks and into the
White River.

## Nearby Attractions

The Buffalo River Trail is accessible from the Collier trailhead parking area.
This trail joins the Ozark Highlands Trail at Woolum, 14 miles (22.5 km)
upstream from Tyler Bend.

## Charges & Cancellations

Rules and Reservation Policies

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Campers will delight in the picturesque river views at Tyler Bend. Located 11 miles (18 km) northwest of Marshall, Arkansas, Tyler Bend is set on a quiet, peaceful section of the great Buffalo National River. Known as the middle river region, the campground offers tranquil views of the river beside pastures.</p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>Small-mouth bass, catfish and sunfish are the most popular fish to catch on the Buffalo River, but visitors should be aware that an Arkansas fishing license is required to fish anywhere on the river. <br><br><br>The middle river location also allows for extended seasons for kayaking and tubing. If there's enough rain, the sports can go through mid- to late summer. <br><br><br>Get a dose of history by hiking to the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/collier-homestead.htm" rel="nofollow">Collier Homestead,</a> a restored Ozark dwelling from the 1930's. The homestead remembers one of the homes built by settlers in response to the Homestead Act of 1862.</p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>Small-mouth bass, catfish and sunfish are the most popular fish to catch on the Buffalo River, but visitors should be aware that an Arkansas fishing license is required to fish anywhere on the river. <br><br><br>The middle river location also allows for extended seasons for kayaking and tubing. If there's enough rain, the sports can go through mid- to late summer. <br><br><br>Get a dose of history by hiking to the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/collier-homestead.htm" rel="nofollow">Collier Homestead,</a> a restored Ozark dwelling from the 1930's. The homestead remembers one of the homes built by settlers in response to the Homestead Act of 1862.</p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
<p>The Buffalo National River flows free over swift running rapids and quiet pools for its 135-mile (217 km) length. One of the few remaining rivers in the lower 48 states without dams, the Buffalo cuts its way through massive limestone bluffs traveling eastward through the Arkansas Ozarks and into the White River.</p>

<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
<p>The Buffalo River Trail is accessible from the Collier trailhead parking area. This trail joins the Ozark Highlands Trail at Woolum, 14 miles (22.5 km) upstream from Tyler Bend.</p>
<h2>Charges & Cancellations</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies" rel="nofollow">Rules and Reservation Policies</a> </p>

Fees for the walk-in sites and drive-in sites (non-electric) are $20 a night
for up to 6 people per site.

Fees for the Group Tent Only Area (non-electric) are $50 a night for 10 to 25
people per group site.

Buffalo National River

Directions

Reviews

Campgrounds

Buffalo Point

Erbie Group Campground

Ozark Pavilion

Steel Creek Campground

Tyler Bend Campground