Floating the Buffalo National River

The Buffalo River has something to offer for everyone, no matter what your level of experience. The 150 mile stretch of river begins in the Boston Mountains and offers Class I and II rapids in the 25 mile stretch between Ponca and Arkansas Hwy 7.

While it's best to float the upper portions of the river during spring and early summer the lower portion can be floated virtually year round. I'd suggest a canoe trip on the Buffalo River during the fall, when the leaves are changing. It's gorgeous.

If you're a laid back kind of person, the 27 mile float from Hwy 65 to Buffalo Point is a great way to spend the day. Just make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and ziploc bags. If you don't accidentally tip your canoe it's almost certain someone in your group will help you out.

The 7 mile canoe trip from Buffalo Point to Rush is perfect if you're taking your kids or it's your first float trip. It's short, there's lots to look at and a good swimming hole or two along the way.

It's best to have lots of sunscreen, a thin long sleeved shirt and hat, and a towel. The oversized zip top bags with handles are perfect. They'll keep things dry and they'll float if they happen to get into the water. Take a cooler with plenty of drinking water and food and don't forget a bag for your trash. Try using a water friendly disposable camera or double bagging your regular model when you aren't using it.

Make certain to check the river conditions and observe proper safety precautions when floating if you aren't using a canoe rental service. If you are using a service they are usually up to date on the Buffalo National River conditions and will advise you of the proper safety precautions.

Have a great trip!


Recommended river levels for canoeing
River Maps, Mileage, River levels, Shuttles
Buffalo River Floater's Guide
National Park Campsites
Map of River and Campgrounds
Current Buffalo River Level Report
Buffalo National River Conditions
Rules and Regulations on the Buffalo National River

Buffalo National River Rules and Regualtions: Arkansas

These are the River Safety Rules posted at Tyler Bend on the Buffalo National River. Some items are suggestions. Some are the law. It's all information you need to know if you plan on floating the Buffalo National River on your Ozarks vacation. For a copy of rules and regulations contact the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

River Safety comes first. Consider the following in planning a safe and enjoyable trip:

· Life Jackets are required of all boaters. State law requires that children under thirteen wear them at all times in a boat or canoe.

· Capsizing happens! Tie in your gear, but not your crew. Stay upstream from your canoe (i.e., don’t get between a rock and your boat), float on your back and point your feet downstream.

· Obstacles like fallen trees and large rocks appear and disappear with changing water levels. Scout out rapids before you run them.

· Glass containers are prohibited within 100 feet of the river and streams, in caves and on trails.

· Coolers, ice chests, and other storage containers must be sealed or locked to prevent them from emptying into water. A mesh trash bag that can be tightly sealed must be securely affixed to canoe or boat.

· Beverages not in storage containers around rivers and streams must be attached to or held within floating holders to prevent sinking in the water. Alcohol and boating don’t mix-save your drinks for later.

· Summer boating means lots of water-reflected sunlight. Bring sunscreen, wear a hat and sunglasses, and drink lots of water. Winter boating requires synthetic or wool (non-cotton clothes. Bring extra in a dry bag; wear a hat and waterproof mittens!

· Pets may be taken in boats, but must be restrained on a leash six feet or shorter when on shore.

· Motors must be below 10 horsepower and are not allowed upstream of the Erbie ford.

· Diving and jumping from bluffs into the river is dangerous. People have become paralyzed or even died after striking submerged rocks.

· Canoeing skills are a must before embarking on a river trip. Consult a ranger or as a canoe consessioner for a demonstration of basic techniques.

· Poisonous snakes and spiders are common, but rarely a problem. Be observant and respect their presence.

· Water from streams and springs is unsafe to drink unless purified. Protozoanx like giardia might be present causing prolonged illness.

· River rises occur rapidly and sometimes with little warning due to upstream rains. Stay informed of conditions and weather forecasts.

· Ticks can carry diseases. Frequent checks and proper removal can prevent disease transmission.


This information will help you plan a successful trip to the Buffalo National River.

Have a great trip!

Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
Basic Canoeing Video
Poisonous snakes of Arkansas
How to Remove a Tick
What is giardia?
Safe river levels for canoeing
Current Buffalo National River levels
River conditions