Buffalo River, AR (10/04)

From my article "Three Multi-Day Flatwater Trips within a Day’s Drive from Nashville...", in the TSRA Watershed...

Buffalo National River in AR

difficulty: moderate
note: The USGS gauge for the middle to lower sections is not accurate. Recent flooding rearranged the streambed so that the gauge sits in a puddle of water that no longer correlates to the actual river conditions. Call an outfitter in the area or the NPS office to get an accurate assessment of river conditions.

Beautiful limestone bluffs follow the course of the river from its headwaters in the Boston Mountains, through the Ozarks and into the White River. Of the 150 miles, 135 miles are protected as a National River. The Buffalo River has everything from Class II/III whitewater to placid, deep pools. Whitewater transitions to flatwater as the river winds its way through the Ozarks. The section we paddled included the Lower Buffalo and Leatherwood Wilderness Areas leading up to the confluence with the White River. We spent a week on the river in early October, perfect timing to enjoy the Fall colors. Striking reds, oranges and yellows highlighted the bluffs. Days were warm and sunny, but not quite warm enough for swimming. Nights were cool enough that campfires never felt like overkill.

Information about the river says that lower sections can be run year-round, but the higher sections can be run only in the rainy season. This information is correct, mostly. At low water, expect you might have to get out and push through the occasional shallow section. Some small rapids will appear at these levels and you will need a keen eye to navigate them or sturdy footwear to correct your mistakes.

There are many outfitters that provide boat rental and shuttle service along the river. Check out the NPS website for a complete listing of outfitters that service each area.