Buffalo National River
6 campgrounds in the park · 17 nearby · 3 free and dispersed sites within 25 mi
Photo: NPS Photo
2 current alerts
As of Sep 20, 2026 · from nps.gov
- InformationReservations Only at Buffalo Point - Starting March 15, 2027Starting March 15, 2027, reservations will be required for all campsites at Buffalo Point Campground, including A & E Loops. Reservations must be made through Recreation.gov (www.recreation.gov) or by calling 877-444-6777. Reservations can be made the same day or up to six months in advance. Please note that cell phone service is unreliable in these areas, so it is strongly recommended to make your reservation before arriving at the campground.
- Park closureSouth Woolum Road Closed, Alternate Route AvailableIn the interest of safety, the South Woolum Road has been closed. The Woolum launch and campground remain open.
At a glance
- Open
- Year-round
- In the park
- 6 campgrounds3 reserve on Recreation.gov
- Near the park
- 17 campgroundsWithin 25 mi
- Free and dispersed
- 3 sitesWithin 25 mi
Where to camp
Camping in the park 6
- National Park
Steel Creek Campground
In the park · Ponca, AR
Reserve on Recreation.gov
- National Park
Buffalo Point
In the park · Buffalo City, AR
Reserve on Recreation.gov
Camping near the park 17
- Aerial viewCampground
Group Campground
8.9 mi · Gilbert, AR
- Aerial viewCampground
Tyler Bend Drive-in Campground
9.1 mi · Gilbert, AR
Free and dispersed nearby 3
See them on the mapServices nearby: 1 dump station
About Buffalo
Established in 1972, Buffalo National River flows freely for 135 miles and is one of the few remaining undammed rivers in the lower 48 states. Once you arrive, prepare to journey from running rapids to quiet pools while surrounded by massive bluffs as you…
Established in 1972, Buffalo National River flows freely for 135 miles and is one of the few remaining undammed rivers in the lower 48 states. Once you arrive, prepare to journey from running rapids to quiet pools while surrounded by massive bluffs as you cruise through the Ozark Mountains down to the White River.
Photos: NPS Photo/Ryan Stokes · NPS Photo/Terra Fondriest
Things to do
- Camping
- Backcountry Camping
- Caving
- Fishing
- Freshwater Fishing
- Food
- Dining
- Picnicking
- Guided Tours
Plan your visit
Getting there
Buffalo National River is a long, narrow park that is crossed by three main highways. Highways 7, 43, and 62/65 are the main roads out of Harrison, Arkansas that will take you to the Buffalo River, depending on which…
Weather
Summer in the Ozarks can be very hot and humid. Please check the weather forecast prior to your arrival and plan accordingly. The weather the rest of the year has the potential to be wet and cool or dry and warm. Please…
Plan your visit
Hours
Buffalo National River is 135 miles long. The park is open 24 hours.
Getting there
Buffalo National River is a long, narrow park that is crossed by three main highways. Highways 7, 43, and 62/65 are the main roads out of Harrison, Arkansas that will take you to the Buffalo River, depending on which part of the park you wish to visit. GPS systems are not reliable in this area so please call ahead for directions or pick up a map of the area beforehand.
Weather
Summer in the Ozarks can be very hot and humid. Please check the weather forecast prior to your arrival and plan accordingly. The weather the rest of the year has the potential to be wet and cool or dry and warm. Please pay special attention to river levels and the rain forecast when planning a trip on the river. River levels can rise dramatically in a short period of time so please be aware of conditions.
Camped at Buffalo? You could be the first to say which site you'd pick again.
Reviews, photos and cell signal reports from real stays help the next camper choose between Steel Creek Campground, Buffalo Point and Tyler Bend Campground.