Buffalo National River - Arkansas

Address:Harrison, Arkansas
Tel: (870) 439-2502

Canoe down America's first national river; one of the few remaining rivers in without dams in the lower 48 states!

The Buffalo National River is divided into upper, middle, and lower segments. Each of these offers visitors different and exciting opportunities for recreation on the river. Visitors can take a quiet, early morning trip by canoe. Enjoy the cool temperatures, as you explore the river and view the wildlife along the river banks, or enjoy a hike in one of the three designated wilderness areas. The upper section has powerful whitewater rapids, along with sink holes, caves, springs and waterfalls, and 500-foot tall sandstone and limestone bluffs. The park also has ample hiking and horseback riding trails, and numerous old roads that provide great riding opportunities for those willing to explore without trail signs. Nature lovers will enjoy the over 300 species of fish, insects, freshwater mussels, and aquatic plants which all call Buffalo National River home. When you've finished exploring, the whole family will enjoy topping off the vacation with an overnight stay in a Buffalo log cabin.

To reach the Upper District, using Harrison as a starting point, travel south from Harrison on Highway 7, or Highway 43. Those heading for the Middle District should travel 31 miles south of Harrison on Highway 65. Finally, those interested in the Lower District need to take Highway 65 south from Harrison for five miles, and then take Highway 62/412 to the east to Yellville, and Highway 14 south.

The Buffalo River is one of the few remaining unpolluted, free-flowing rivers in the lower 48 states offering both swift-running and placid stretches. The Buffalo National River encompasses 135 miles of the 150-mile long river. It begins as a trickle in the Boston Mountains 15 miles above the park boundary. Following what is likely an ancient riverbed, the Buffalo cuts its way through massive limestone bluffs traveling eastward through the Ozarks and into the White River. The national river has three designated wilderness areas within its boundaries.