Buffalo National River

Things To Do Near Buffalo National River

The best ways to explore the Buffalo National River are by boat or on foot. If you're an experienced paddler, the fast and fun upper end is an exciting section to run — you'll also find plenty of calm sections to float as a family. Other activities in the area include fishing, horseback riding, and scenic driving. Hiking and outdoor exploration are possible year round; the mild winters are a great way to escape the heat and to get the trails to yourself.

Hiking Trails

• Buffalo River Trail from Woolum to Tyler Bend

  Explore the southern side of the river on the Buffalo River Trail. This section of the trail starts in Woolum and travels 11 miles to Tyler Bend; you can do a backpacking trip or leave a second vehicle at the end of the trail. This route goes deep into the Arkansas wilderness, taking you through dense forests and up rocky cliffs. Along the trek, you'll get beautiful river views.

  Location

  Co Rd 14, St Joe, AR 72675

  Length

  11 miles one-way

  Intensity

  Moderate

• Cecil Cove Loop

  Put on sturdy, water-resistant shoes, and head out on the beautiful Cecil Cove Loop. It crosses back and forth across Cecil Creek before climbing high up the side of a mountain. As you hike, you'll see traces of Arkansas' fascinating history. Make sure to keep an eye out for Thunder Canyon Falls, which pours over a rock cliff close to the trail.

  Location

  Cecil Cove trailhead, Erbie Rd, Harrison, AR 72601

  Length

  7 miles round-trip

  Intensity

  Moderate

• Indian Rockhouse Trail

  Explore the rock caves where ancient indigenous people took refuge from the elements 7,000 years ago on the Indian Rockhouse Trail. As you hike, you'll also see fascinating geologic features, including a sinkhole and a gorgeous section of bedrock. The trail is short but challenging with plenty of interesting spots to rest in the shade.

  Location

  Hwy 268 E, Yellville, AR 72687

  Length

  3.5 miles round-trip

  Intensity

  Moderate to Strenuous

Sightseeing

• Collier Homestead

  See how homesteaders lived in the early 1900s at the Collier Homestead. It was settled in 1932 by Solomon and Ida Mae Collier under the Homestead Act. Although the Colliers left in 1962, many of the original buildings remain on the property. You can explore the site at your own pace; make sure to pick up a brochure at the visitor center before you come to the homestead.

  Location

  Buffalo River Trail, St Joe, AR 72675

• Grinder's Ferry

  If you're visiting the Buffalo National River in the summer, escape the heat at Grinder's Ferry. This popular swimming hole is a great place to take a dip in the river; it's also a common spot to put in kayaks or canoes. The water is calm, so it's safe for kids and swimmers of all levels.

  Location

  Shine Eye Road and US-65, St. Joe, AR 72675

• Red Bluff Overlook

  If you've seen photos of the Buffalo National River, you've probably seen at least one that was taken from the Red Bluff Overlook. This elevated overlook offers a spectacular view of one of the horseshoe bends in the river. It's most beautiful from spring to fall when the leaves are still on the trees; if possible, come at sunset or sunrise. Make sure to bring your camera; this is one of the most beautiful spots that's accessible by car.

  Location

  AR-422, St Joe, AR 72675

Museums

• Saint Joe Historic Depot Museum

  Discover the history of the Missouri and North Arkansas Railroad at the Saint Joe Historic Depot Museum. The depot, which opened in 1902, has been carefully restored. Inside, you'll find historic photos, artifacts, and educational exhibits that chronicle the construction and that explain the importance of the railroad to rural communities.

  Location

  110 U.S. South, 65, St Joe, AR 72675

• Ozark Heritage Arts Museum

  If you have some extra time, drive down to the Ozark Heritage Arts Museum to learn about the unique culture in the Buffalo National River region. In the small museum, you'll discover the rich musical traditions of the Ozarks. Later, you can see how locals are keeping the traditions alive in the attached Killebrew Theater.

  Location

  410 Oak St, Leslie, AR 72645

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

• Scenic Point Gift Shop

  Pick up a unique souvenir at Scenic Point Gift Shop. It also carries fudge, locally made preserves, and other delicious treats.

  Location

  AR-7 South, Jasper, AR 72641

• Ferguson's Country Store

  You'll feel like you've stepped back in time at Ferguson's Country Store. It's packed with traditional items, including quilts, wood crafts, and Ozark-themed art. There's also a lovely, relaxed restaurant in the same building if you're in need of a meal.

  Location

  121 AR-333, St Joe, AR 72675

• Coursey's

  If you're looking for a casual meal, Coursey's is a great place to pick up lunch to go. The sandwiches are simple, but the delicious smoked meats make them a local favorite.

  Location

  Mill Springs Road, St Joe, AR 72675

• Craw Billy's Seafood Boil & BBQ

  Dig into a plate of Cajun food at Craw Billy's Seafood Boil & BBQ. Whether you're in the mood for smoked ribs or a classic crab feast, this casual restaurant is the perfect choice. If possible, grab a table outside to enjoy the view while you eat.

  Location

  12633 N, Hwy 65, St Joe, AR 72675

How To Get To Buffalo National River

One of the easiest ways to get to the Buffalo National River is to take US-65 north from Marshall or south from Pindall and St. Joe. From here, you can access the smaller county roads that run along the river, including County Road 241.

Address

170 Ranger Road, St. Joe, AR 72675

Fee: Entry fee $0

Whether you're planning to run the narrows or explore the riverbanks on foot, the Buffalo National River guarantees beautiful scenery and plenty of sunshine. Come in the summer for fishing, swimming, and canoeing, or hike the trails in the winter for cooler weather. No matter when you come, an RV is the perfect way to camp at the lovely campgrounds along the river.