General Description & Characteristics -- The Buffalo River
was designated a National River in 1972 and protected from a dam-building project after a
fierce battle between developers and environmentalists. Its signature features are the
spectacular bluffs that overlook many of the river's bends, some seeming to provide an
acoustic sound stage for the whip-poor-wills that populate the area. In the upper section,
there are some rapids, a few rather significant, while the lower river is more peaceful
with only an occasional riffle. The Buffalo River is esteemed by many to be the best
canoe stream in the United States, and it certainly deserves consideration for that honor.
Location & Canoeable Mileage -- The Buffalo River lies
entirely in the northern section of Arkansas. The officially designated Buffalo National
River comprises just over 130 miles from Boxley Bridge on highway 21 to the confluence
with the White River. While the section from Ponca to Pruitt is popular for running
rapids, the 102 miles from Pruitt to the White River make for a great week long float,
with enough fast water to make it interesting, but only a few real rapids. It is important
to realize the Buffalo is a free-flowing river that depends on regional rainfall for its
flow, so a long trip (from Pruitt or farther upstream) is only possible when there is
adequate flow (usually OK in winter and spring). Even if there is insufficient water in
the upper and middle sections, it is usually floatable from Tyler Bend to the White River.
If you float all the way to the White River, don't follow the advice of
many and try to paddle upstream to a take out above the mouth of the Buffalo on the
opposite bank. The flow of the White River can make this extremely difficult. Instead,
float the 10 or so miles on the scenic White River to the village of Norfork for an easy
take out. You can add another 34 miles and float down to Sylamore on the White
River. This is an especially good idea if water on the Buffalo is low and you can
only do the lower section.
Interesting Features -- Most of the land along the Buffalo River
is in public ownership and the bluffs, cliff, and hills of the Ozarks are a natural
paradise. There are numerous publications about this river that explain the attractions in
detail, including hiking and cultural sites. This is an extremely popular float stream,
and very busy on summer week ends. Go in the spring, before it gets crowded. During the
week, you will have little competition from other floaters.
Spring rainstorms can bring very fast rising water to the Buffalo.
Be alert to the weather forecast, and if heavy rains are occuring or expected in
the watershed, you should stay off (or get off) the river. Rises of 3 feet per hour
are not uncommon. Tie your boat up to a tree that is higher than your tent when you
camp, and always choose a campsite with access to higher ground. The NPS will close the
river to all boating when it reaches flood stage. Fortunately, the Buffalo River
usually returns to good floating conditions within a couple of days after the rains stop.
Camping -- You can camp on the many gravel bars along the river
or in the developed campgrounds at most major access points along the way. Some of the
best campsites offer a 180 degree panorama of dramatic bluffs across the river. Be
prepared for an all night chorus of whip-poor-wills in the spring.
Additional Information:
