The Buffalo National River

Searcy County is home to approximately 48 miles of America’s 1st National River! 1,393,247 recreation visits to the BuffaloNational River in 2025! Was almost 1.7 million in 2024! Clear, cool water, towering ridges and bluff lines, and miles of gravel and sand beaches await floaters, fishermen, campers and sunbathers! The Buffalo National River and its tributary Richland Creek, are both national wild and scenic rivers! Canoeing, kayaking, hiking, horseback riding, campgrounds, the Tyler Bend Visitor Center, elk viewing, bald eagles, swimming holes and fishing for smallmouth bass await you in the heart of the Buffalo National River! Gilbert, labeled the coolest town in Arkansas, has the closest lodging to the Buffalo National River! Great spots include the Bat House (aka Skull Bluff), the Nars, Shine Eye, and Red Bluff Overlook! The Buffalo National River has been designated the status of an International Dark Sky Park! Tyler Bend Visitor Center

The Buffalo National River is named as one of the "Best Scenic River Kayaking in USA!" Searcy County is the Heart of the Buffalo National River! https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1A4AEKsNn5/

Rock climbing is allowed at the Buffalo National River, but no permanent anchors are allowed! You may use temporary anchors that do not deface the rock. Also, please don't climb at archeological sites, like shelter bluffs. Our local rock is not great rock for climbing, so safety is paramount! No granite rock here, but there is a lot of sandstone that can break easily. Take proper safety precautions!

Buffalo National River

Outfitters Listed Below:

Buffalo River Outfitters

Buffalo Camping & Canoeing at the Gilbert General Store

Silver Hill Float Service

Crockett's Canoe Rental

All trails at Buffalo National River are now open to leashed pets, with the exception of trails located within Congressionally designated Wilderness areas.

Pets are NOT permitted in the park’s three Wilderness areas:

• Upper Buffalo Wilderness

• Ponca Wilderness

• Lower Wilderness

This includes some popular hiking trails, such as Centerpoint, Compton, and portions of the Buffalo River Trail.

Where are pets welcome?

Park campgrounds

Gravel bars

All trails outside designated Wilderness areas

A few important reminders:

Pets must remain on a physical leash no longer than six (6) feet at all times.

Pets are prohibited in caves.

Specially trained service dogs, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), are permitted in all areas open to the public.

Pets may not be left unattended. Unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells can disturb even the calmest, friendliest, and best-trained dog, causing them to behave unpredictably or bark excessively.

Pet excrement must be collected by pet owners and disposed of in trash receptacles.

Chase for pleasure and dog training are not allowed.

We love seeing you enjoy the Buffalo River with your furry friends! Help us protect these special places by following pet regulations and practicing good stewardship. To learn more about pets in the park visit https://www.nps.gov/buff/planyourvisit/pets.htm

Cited as one of 10 Views in America You Can't Miss | The Discoverer

Lodging here: Lodging | Searcy County Chamber of Commerce

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