2023 Buffalo Outdoor Center. The park recommends that ALL persons, even those age 13 and up, wear a life jacket while on the river. 12 and under must wear personal floatation devices (PFDs) [State Law] at all times and be carefully supervised anytime around or on a body of water. Once your paperwork and payment are complete, youll drive to the launch site and leave a set of car keys with our river staff. Most visitors choose distances of eight miles (12.8 km) or less. Waterproof outer garments are also highly recommended. The water levels are dependant solely upon how much rain we get. We digress. You can still enjoy the Buffalo River National Park. Not all trees are removed. Canoe season for the upper Buffalo National River is usually March through June, although we sometimes have canoeing water into July. It depends on the severity of the storm and the watershed into which it falls. You'll explore dramatic bluffs, caves, and hiking trails along the Buffalo River. These businesses are permitted by the National Park Service to rent canoes, kayaks and rafts, and to provide shuttle services within Buffalo National River. Reservations can be made online at www.recreation.gov. Bicycles are not permitted on any park trails and. We suggest a person be at least age six and able to swim, although there is no official National Park Service required age limit for paddling the river. All rights reserved. All persons floating or paddling the Buffalo River are required to have a personal floatation device (PFD) in their boat. Spread the love. Pick a path that best fits your skill level and prepare to be floored by the foliage -- there really is no place in Arkansas more beautiful in the fall than the Buffalo National River! You can sit, stand, or yoga your . However, some trails are designed for foot traffic only and are marked with a white blaze. Buffalo Outdoor Center is authorized within Buffalo National River to provide canoe rentals and transportation services. Species of note for backcountry travelers are black bears, feral hogs, elk, and raccoons. Wild Bills Outfitter is located on the lower section of the Buffalo River near Buffalo Point and Dillard's Ferry (Hwy 14 Bridge). In the spring and late fall the middle and lower section of the river are seldom used. If your boat becomes lodged, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO UNPIN IT! Search 'Buffalo River floating conditions' and look for the website: ar.water.usgs.gov>BuffaloRiver Please note that on high-demand Saturdays and Memorial Day weekend, all outfitters can experience delays in moving vehicles. The 17.5-mile float from Tyler Bend to South Maumee has some of the best foliage along the river. What rules and regulations should I be aware of? The water in the Buffalo National River is dependent on a consistent amount of rainfall throughout the year to provide ample water for floating. The Buffalo National River is a designated International Dark Sky Park, recognizing and protecting its exceptionally dark and starry skies. Suite 136 When the days cool for activities, the elk become more active, and visitors from all across the country come to view the Ozark Mountains transform from deep greens to vibrant shades of red, yellow, and orange. Arkansas certainly lives up to its name of "The Natural State.". Hersey and South Maumee. More Boat rentals must arrive at the takeout by 6:30PM the day of rental. Either way, they can cause a canoe or kayak to capsize and require extra care to avoid. Black = Very Low / Blue = Low / Green = Moderate / Yellow = High / Red = Flood Stage, Each gauge is designed to reflect a specific river sections unique gradient, so color About. To avoid crowds in the spring, consider floating during the weekdays or floating on a lower section of river, such as Carver to Woolum. Paddle and float times vary depending on breaks, if you are paddling or not, and the river level. Chances are you won't be alone on your river trip. Avoid sweepers and strainers. Click here to see our gauge. For an additional fee, some outfitters will shuttle vehicles to a take-out point. As of 2016, the NPS has adopted a zero-tolerance position on music played on radios, boomboxes and other devices that interfere with the natural quiet ambience of the wilderness surroundings. Be sure your PFDs are US Coast Guard approved, in serviceable condition, and are worn properly. Depending upon the month, launch times may vary somewhat. Any boat that arrives after 6:30PM will be charged for another rental day. You can give a full report about your experience floating Americas First National River using this form. Were so glad you asked! Another fun fall adventure is at this spectacular 16-acre corn maze. Contact Us, 8 am 6 pm | Mar Oct For Upper District, call Steel Creek Ranger Station at 870-861-2570. We offer Buffalo River and Crooked Creek canoe rentals as well as kayaks, rafts and Jon boats for trips from 3 hours to all day to several days. Where can I get online Ponca weather information? Buffalo River This is our favorite float in the Island Park Area. AR Had to wait a few minutes on the bus ride. All other campgrounds along the river have sites available on a first come, first served basis. The 2.8-mile loop is mildly strenuous, but the cool weather will keep you from breaking a sweat on this fall trek in Arkansas. More To preserve the Buffalo River as a free-flowing stream, Congress designated it as America's first national river in 1972. You are very limited as to what you can take with you on a tube and there is often no room for water, snacks, or sunscreen. When planning a river float trip, the type of experience you have depends on several factors, including the length of your visit, the season, and the stretch of river you choose to float. When and where is the best place to float the Buffalo River? These storms are sudden and can happen far away from where their affects are eventually felt. With temperatures starting to dip and blue skies and vibrant foliage for days, fall is always a beautiful time to enjoy an Arkansas forest or two. The water is usually low after June, but it also depends on how much rain they receive throughout the year. Contact Us, 8 am 6 pm | Mar Oct Thirty percent of the river receives seventy percent of the canoe traffic. Still have questions? When paddling during the fall, winter, or spring wear wool or synthetic fibers such as polypropylene, or a wet suit. Floaters will often see Moose along the way that frequent the river and it's banks for food. Remember, "It won't work if you don't wear it." There are many floating options in the Island Park area. Explore 10 scenic float trips that can only be enjoyed in the Ozarks. We use cookies to improve your browsing experience on our website. A quiet, early morning trip will offer cooler temperatures, far more opportunities to see wildfile along the river banks, and better fishing. Map it. Thank you! Perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway, Eureka Springs, Arkansas, definitely deserves a place on your fall foliage bucket list. The graduate of University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, Carol Ann earned her B.A. Whether its just a day trip or a long overdue getaway, below is some information to help you decide the perfect time to come see us. Canoe, kayak, and raft rentals, from 1 day excursions to multiday river adventures. Hypothermia results when your body loses heat faster than it produces it and can be deadly. . The Tyler Bend Visitor Center is located at 170 Ranger Rd., St. Joe, AR, 72675. . Take a short hike to Hemmed-in-Hollow, the highest waterfalls between the Rockies and Appalachians. moosemountainpark.com. The river outfitters have a water level meter so you can see if the river is high enough to float or to low. There are three campgrounds that take reservations: Steel Creek (Upper District), Tyler Bend (Middle District), and Buffalo Point (Lower District). Nestled in the Arkansas Ozarks, Eureka Springs is as pretty as a postcard in the fall, when the landscape shines in golds and oranges, which pop against the bold blue of the beautiful Buffalo National River. At times the river might be exceedingly low or stretches of it may flow underground. Yes, you can! Nestled in the Arkansas Ozarks, Eureka Springs is as pretty as a postcard in the fall, when the landscape shines in golds and oranges, which pop against the bold blue of the beautiful Buffalo National River. Floating, hiking, camping. Reviewed July 26, 2020 via mobile. Buffalo Outdoor Center is a proud recipient of the 2021 Tripadvisor Travelers Choice award. This means that you will drive your personal vehicle to the put-in spot, from there you will pass the keys to one of our experienced drivers and we will move your vehicle for you. For instance, the Indian Rock House Trail features countless creeks, a historic mine, an impressive rock shelter, and stunningly gorgeous fall foliage. Constant paddling does not always make for the most enjoyable trip; while planning your trip, don't forget to consider the time you wish to spend hiking along riverside trails, fishing, and swimming. Visit our hiking trail page about Hemmed-In Hollow for how to locate the trail from the river. Spread the love. Tell someone where you are going. Trails blazed in yellow are hiker/horseback trails. For shoes, wear something you dont mind getting wet and that also provides a sturdy footbed and straps securely to your foot. Here are some of the most popular questions our Adventure Staff is currently receiving from paddlers. 2023 Buffalo Outdoor Center. Once youve completed your contract, you will drive to the launch site (well be sure to give you directions) where you and your party will receive a safety talk, then be issued your boat(s), paddles, PFDs and mesh trash bag(s). Yes. This includes other watercraft, swimmers, and horses! Experience is the best practice, avoidance is the best caution. Three of the most used river segments are Ponca to Kyles Landing, Maumee to Buffalo Point, and Highway 14 Bridge to Rush. Float trips on the Upper Buffalo River are on hold until the area receives enough rain to bring the river back up to a floatable level. When planning a river float trip, the type of experience you have depends on several factors, including the length of your visit, the season, and the stretch of river you choose to float. Tube responsibly. To avoid summer crowds consider a trip early in the morning or during the middle of the week. River levels update @ every 5 minutes. Roasted marshmallows, fireside snuggles, and spectacular stargazing will make this trip memorable. A great resource to use for any Buffalo float is the Buffalo Outdoor Center. 663 Main St., Richmond; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday; $13, $11 for kids (12 and under). Hersey to Woolum. Features from Ponca to Steel Creek include: Bee Bluff and Roark Bluff. 402 N. Walnut Street Do you have physical or mobility issues? Tempers can run short as visitors are anxious to get on the river and cool off. Remember that river travel is not strictly a miles-per-hour undertaking since different reaches have different flows and impediments. The weather and water levels on the Buffalo can sometimes be difficult to predict, but here at Buffalo River Outfitters we want to make sure you have the most enjoyable trip year round! segments will differ in length between gauges. The chart below shows recommended floating levels by the river gauge. Lost Valley Float Trips. Map it. The reach you select will be defined by your put-in and take-out locations. We will update you as soon as we can float again! Cotton is to be avoided, especially denim jeans. We've been floating with them for over 32 years. View more information about canoeing / floating with kids, as well as other safety tips. All life jackets must be (1) U.S. Coast Guard approved, (2) in a safe and servicable condition, and (3) of proper size for the person wearing it. And speaking of safety, the operative phrase may actually be "run into" at certain times. What age minimum is recommended for floating the river? Kyles Landing put in is 24.2 miles from the Gateway City to the Buffalo River, Harrison, AR. The length of a float trip can range from hours to days, from 1 mile to 130 miles (1.6 to 208 km). Need to see the river levels for yourself? Boxley Bridge put in is located on Hwy 21 in Boxley Valley. Other factors also influence paddling time, such as water level, ones personal paddling skills (or those of another person in your canoe), and how much extra-curricular activitysuch as fishing or hikingone does along the way. #buffalonationalriver #floattrip #arkansasIn this video, I take you along with my friends and I as we float the Buffalo National River from Steel Creek to Ky. 72601, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Paddle and float times vary depending on breaks, if you are paddling or not, and the river level. VIDEOS A River Nestled in the Arkansas Ozarks How did this river escape impoundment, impairment, and massive change? Unlike rivers that are fed by perennial springs, the Buffalo is largely rainfall dependent. Located in Arkansas, the Buffalo National River is the first national river in the country and is abundant in wildlife and beautiful scenery. 74) where you'll canoe 8 miles to Kyle's Landing. The Natural State is home to unrivaled scenic beauty; in the autumn, the Ozarks are ablaze in a veritable kaleidoscope of color. Follow us on social media for updates on river levels and to see pictures of current conditions! We suggest a person be at least age six and able to swim, although there is no official age limit on the river. Let our FAQ help fast-forward your paddling plans! As with so many southern states, Arkansas experiences "peak fall colors" a bit later in the season, generally around the last week of October and in early November. We encourage you to contact our concessioners and shop for the services and rates you desire. Photograph wild elk grazing in the valley from your car or explore endless trails with breathtaking waterfalls and historical significance. It notes the Buffalo typically flows at an average speed of 2 mph. Absolutely! Put in is at the Ozark Campground off Highway 7 north of Jasper. For an additional fee, some outfitters will shuttle vehicles to a take-out point. She loves exploring the trails around the Buffalo National River and has yet to find a waterfall that wasn't her favorite. The cabins are in a good location because they are a short drive to both Tyler Bend Visitor Center, where there are hiking trails and river access and to Grinder's Ferry, which is an easy place to access the river. As each vehicle and river trip is different, please call us at 1-870-861-5514 to discuss arrangements for shuttles involving special types of vehicles. Floating Pruitt to Hasty will take you past Welch Bluff, painted by the famous artists Thomas Hart Benton. According to the Park Service website, each reach has its own beauty and challenges. The gravel in the river provide critical habitat for many living things, but when it comes to planning your trip the issue is usually whether or not the water depth is sufficient. Floating, hiking, camping. To check the river level, as well as the daily launch site, visit our Current Buffalo River Levels web page. Are you healthy enough for strenuous activity? New to floating the upper Buffalo National River? segments will differ in length between gauges. Ponca, AR 72670, 1 (870) 861-5514 The Ponca to Pruitt in the Upper Buffalo is one of the most popular. Visit our Life Jacket Loaner page to learn how you can borrow a life jacket during your next visit to the river. Things To Do Paddling Paddling Paddling in the Upper District. For the upper Buffalo National River, that area lies between the Steel Creek and Kyles Landing accesses. Flowing through Boxley Valley, the Boxley to Ponca run is just over 6 miles long. Love Arkansas? Leave it where it is and report its location to a park ranger as soon as possible. Do you possess basic survival skills, such as lighting a fire, and can you perform those skills while soaking wet and shivering? Lost Valley Float Trips. Tyler Bend may be a popular area but once you're floating you'll just have the sounds of the surrounding nature. Most folks think of the Buffalo being a summer destination, but a trip later in the year certainly has its perks. Where can I take my pet in the park? Each of the three park districts has a Lost & Found located at its respective visitor contact station. September 29, 2022. Map it. 10-30 inches of airspace indicates less experienced floaters should be fine. AR You should join for your chance to be featured and to discover why theres nothing better than Arkansas stunning nature. The Buffalo National River is a designated International Dark Sky Park, recognizing and protecting its exceptionally dark and starry skies. The National Park Service states in its publication Currents that the Buffalo National River is viewed as a Class I river, which is generally accepted as the least difficult river rating. To see the full size images, you need to enable javascript in your browser. Rising water levels and levels over 1 foot can be dangerous. In April, May and June, when theres more daylight to be had, we may launch boats as late as 1:00 PM. Buffalo National River is home to an astounding diversity of wildlife. The Buffalo National River is a designated International Dark Sky Park, recognizing and protecting its exceptionally dark and starry skies. You may want to consider taking out at Dillards Ferry, which is 1.5 miles upstream from Buffalo Point. Buffalo River Outfitters offers a complete Ozark adventure vacation. Map it. Incidentally, quite possibly our favorite overnight float is Carver to Woolum, but that's another post. You can preview the rental contract language here, which will help expedite your time in our office. As you're planning your paddle or float the Buffalo River, please remember the Rules of the River that are intended to keep you safe and the river clean. We then move cars in the order in which the keys have been handed to us (basically, a first-come/first-serve process). Check out our Gallery for scenic views of the Buffalo River. NOTE: Please let the office staff know if your vehicle is electric so that we can accommodate you accordingly. If you have any questions about these rules or any other aspect of paddling the Buffalo, please click on our Paddling page or contact a park ranger at a visitor center or contact station. These guys are like living creatures and are generally taken for granted except when they've swallowed alive your boat trailer or truck. This should tell you approximately how many hours it will take you to float any given section of river. These businesses are permitted by the National Park Service to rent canoes, kayaks and rafts, and to provide shuttle services within Buffalo National River.
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