Buffalo River Float Trips (Ultimate Guide 2024)

Looking for info about Buffalo River float trips? You’ve come to the right place!

Buffalo River float trips are a great way to experience one of the most beautiful rivers in Arkansas. We’ve been on float trips on the Buffalo River several times before and in this article we’re going share what we have learned to help you plan your trip. 

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Keep reading for everything you need to know to plan your first or your next trip to the United State’s first National Scenic Riverway.

Where is the Buffalo River?

The Buffalo River is located in north central Arkansas just over 50 miles south of the Missouri border. There are some great rivers for floating in Missouri as well if you’re in the area.

The enter river is 135 miles long and flows through some of the most beautiful scenery that northern Arkansas and the Ozark mountains have to offer.

Tons of people come to the area every year for Buffalo River trips. Some travel from as far as several states away to experience this one-of-a-kind waterway. 

How long it will take you to get to the Buffalo River will depend on where you are coming from. Here is a quick breakdown of drive times from several of the closest cities/town. 

There are three sections, the Upper Buffalo River, Middle Buffalo River, and Lower Buffalo River. All drive times are to the Middle Buffalo River. 

• Springfield, MO – 2 Hours, 111 Miles

• Little Rock, AR – 2 Hours, 110 Miles

• Oklahoma City, OK – 5 Hours, 20 Mins 334 Miles

What is Special about the Buffalo River?

There are many rivers located within the Ozarks area of southern Missouri and northern Arkansas but the Buffalo River is arguably one the most beautiful. 

In fact, the Buffalo River is so beautiful that in 1972 it was officially designated the United States’ first National Scenic Riverway. Since then over 220 additional rivers have been added to that list. 

Its unspoiled beauty draws over 800,000 visitors each year who come for Buffalo River float trips, camping, hiking, trail riding, or staying at a gorgeous Buffalo River Cabin.

Floating the Buffalo River Sections: Upper, Middle & Lower

There are three different sections of the Buffalo River that are open for float trips. The Upper Buffalo River, the Middle Buffalo River, and the Lower Buffalo River. 

They are all part of the same river, but they are pretty distinct so you should pick where you want to float based on what kind of Buffalo River float trip you would like to go on. 

• Upper Buffalo River Float Trips – The Upper Buffalo River water levels fluctuate more than the other two sections. There may not always be enough water to float in this area.
  
  The Upper Buffalo River also has the most rapids so if you’re looking for a more exciting float then the Upper Buffalo River is where you want to be. It’s also the most challenging section of the Buffalo River. 

• Middle Buffalo River Float Trips – The middle section of the Buffalo River is the most popular section to float. The area around Tyler Bend is one of the most frequently used sections.
  
  The water levels are much more consistent than the Upper Buffalo River so the Middle Buffalo River can usually be floated year-round. 

• Lower Buffalo River Float Trips – The Lower Buffalo River is the calmest portion of the river and is also frequently used for floating. The bluffs are less dramatic than the Upper Buffalo River.
  
  The Lower Buffalo River is regularly used for floating with the area around Buffalo Point being one of the most popular. 

What is the Best Section of the Buffalo River to Float?

The best Buffalo River float trips or even the best section of the Buffalo River depends on what you want to see.

If you’re looking for big epic bluffs and a few rapids then definitely go to the Upper Buffalo River. Just make sure you call the Outfitters ahead of time and ask about the water levels to see if there is currently enough water to float. 

If you can’t be that flexible with your travel plans and you need the water to be more consistent then the middle section is the best place to float the Buffalo River.

There are still some epic bluffs but the calmer more consistent water makes for easier planning. 

What part of the Buffalo River is the Most Scenic?

One of the biggest reasons to go on Buffalo River canoe trips or kayak trips is because of the scenery. There is a reason why this area was designated as the United States’ first National Scenic Riverway, it’s beautiful!

Now everyone has their own opinion on this but personally, I think that the Upper Buffalo River is the most scenic. Keep in mind that it is the hardest part to float, but you really can’t beat the massive beautiful bluffs rising up on both sides of you. 

You will see bluffs further downriver, but like most rivers things tend to flatten out and become less epic the further downriver you go. 

Buffalo River Floating: Trip Options

There are tons of different options for where exactly to float the Buffalo River, and most outfitters will have specific floats that they offer. 

But if you have your own equipment and can float wherever you like then here is a quick list of just a few of the most popular Buffalo River floats Arkansas has to offer. 

And while the Buffalo River is hands down our favorite, there are actually lots of other great rivers in Arkansas for floating that you’ll also want to check out. 

Popular Upper Buffalo River Float Trips

• Boxley to Ponca (2-3 Hours) – This section requires some skill and is not recommended for anyone other than experienced paddlers. But if you know what you’re doing this is a fun section!

• Ponca to Pruitt Float (2 Days) – This is an extremely long float that is best done in more than one day. Kye’s Landing Campground is a good stopping point. 

Popular Middle Buffalo River Float Trips

• Tyler Bend to Grinder’s Ferry (1 Hour) – This is a nice easy one-hour float that is great for all ages and all skill levels. If this is your first time but you really want to float the Buffalo River Arkansas, this is a great place to start. 

• Mt. Hersey to Woolum (4 Hours) – This is one of the best sections for tubing the Buffalo River if you want to see some beautiful bluffs but don’t want to float the Upper section. 

Popular Lower Buffalo River Float Trips

• Dillards Ferry to Buffalo Point (1-2 Hours) – If you don’t have much time for tubing the Buffalo River Arkansas then I recommend this float. You will get the opportunity to see Skull Rock which is super cool and you can get the whole trip done in just an hour or two. 

• Dillards Ferry to Rush Landing (4-6 Hours) – If you have a little more time and want to continue kayaking the buffalo river (or tubing, canoeing- whatever!) then we recommend going past Buffalo Point all the way to Rush Landing. This will make your trip a little over twice as long but you’ll get to see a lot more. 

The Best Time to Float the Buffalo River

If you’ll be floating Buffalo River Arkansas you’ll want to know the best times to go. Here is a quick breakdown of how to avoid the crowds on your float. 

Is Fall a good time to float the Buffalo River?

• Upper Buffalo – No
• Middle and Lower Buffalo – Yes

The best part of Buffalo River to float in the fall is either the middle or lower Buffalo River. The water levels of the Upper Buffalo River are often too low in the fall for floating. 

The Middle and Lower sections of the Buffalo River are often floatable year-round making them great sections to float and see the fall colors. 

When is the best time to float Buffalo River, Arkansas?

• Early Morning, During the Week

The Buffalo River can get very crowded in the summer months. June and July often see the highest number of visitors. 

If you’re looking for some solitude on your float then we recommend floating early in the morning and during the week if possible. 

If you plan to float the Upper Buffalo River then the peak season is April and May when the water levels are the best. 

Buffalo River Float Trip Rental Equipment

There is no shortage of Buffalo River float services and Outfitters. All along all three sections of the river, you will find Buffalo River raft rental places, Buffalo River guided float trips and so much more. 

Most Outfitters will rent a variety of equipment (tubes, rafts, canoes, kayaks, etc.) Here is a quick breakdown of the things to consider when deciding what kind of Buffalo float trip you want to go on. 

Buffalo River Canoeing

• Great for Overnight Trips
• Better if You’re Experienced

Canoeing the Buffalo River is a great option. If you plan on going on a Buffalo River overnight canoe trip then you’ll definitely need a canoe for that. Canoes are essential for overnight trips because they allow you to bring more gear with you (like a tent and food).

Canoes are somewhat harder to navigate, and while there isn’t normally a ton of obstacles on the river, just know that you are more likely to tip over in a canoe, so prepare for getting wet. 

Buffalo River Kayaking

• Easier to Navigate
• Great for Exploring

Buffalo River kayaking is our personal favorite. Kayaks are far easier to navigate in general and are great for zipping around and exploring the area as you go. There are tons of great places along the Buffalo River to stop and hang out on the banks and kayaks make it super easy to do that. 

They often still have some room for food and drinks. We normally just put ours in a dry bag and strap it to the back. 

Buffalo River Tubing 

• Easiest Option
• Little Control
• Best for Low Water Levels

Floating the Buffalo River in a tube is by far the easiest option. Even if you’ve never been on a float trip before you’ll be fine. You literally just flop down in the tube, kick back and enjoy the ride. 

Floating in a tube is also a good option if the water levels are a little low. They sit higher in the water than canoes and kayaks so you’re less likely to hit bottom. And even if you do hit bottom tubes are really lite so it’s easy to stand up and walk your tube to deeper water. 

The only real downside with tubes is that you have little to no control. You’re more or less going to float wherever the river takes you. 

Buffalo River Arkansas Rafting

• More Space
• Most Expensive

Buffalo River rafting is fun, but to be honest it’s not one of our favorite ways to float the Buffalo River. For starters, raft rentals on the Buffalo River are often the most expensive. Tubes and kayaks will be far cheaper options if you want to save some money. 

Big rafts do give you the option of keeping everyone together, and they will give you more space to put your stuff. But they’re very hard to navigate and that can take away from a relaxing float down the river.

Buffalo River Float Trip Outfitters

There is no shortage of Buffalo National River outfitters. All up and down the river you will find companies more than happy to set you up with any equipment you could possibly need for a great day out on the river. 

All outfitters must be Authorized Concessioner of the Buffalo National River through the National Park Service to operate.

Below is a short list of some of our favorite Outfitters who will be more than happy to help you plan your Buffalo National River float trip. 

Upper Buffalo River Outfitters Ponca 

Buffalo Outdoor Center

• Canoes
• Kayaks

If you’re looking for a good Upper Buffalo National river canoe rental the Buffalo Outdoor Center is a good option. They do only rent canoes and kayaks so if you’re looking for a raft then they may not be the best option. 

They have tons of different float options so it doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a 1-hour float or an 8-hour float, or an overnight, multi-day float, they have you covered. 

Lost Valley Canoe & Lodging

• Canoes
• Kayaks
• Rafts

Lost Valley is one of our favorite outfitters for Buffalo National River floating. They’re super helpful and have lots of renting options. Their general store is also really nice. It never fails there is always something that we forget to bring when we’re packing for a float trip. 

Rio Buffalo Outfitter

• Canoes
• Kayaks
• Rafts

Rio Buffalo is one of the newest Buffalo River canoe outfitters. We haven’t floated with them just yet, but I’m sure the next time we decide to float the Buffalo River we’ll check them out. 

For now, they seem to be off to a great start, they have 4.7 out of 5 stars on their Google reviews. So they could be a great choice for your float trip. 

Middle Buffalo River Outfitters 

Buffalo Camping & Canoeing

• Canoes
• Kayaks
• Rafts

Buffalo Camping and Canoeing is a great option if you’re looking for an overnight or even a multi-day trip. While they do still have plenty of short float trip options, Buffalo Camping and Canoeing will help you plan a trip that’s as long as you want. You could even float the entire river if you’re up for it! 

Buffalo River Outfitters

• Canoes
• Kayaks
• Rafts

Not only do they have tons of equipment for rent they also offer a Buffalo River shuttle service that’s super handy if you have your own equipment. Float trips can be a lot cheaper if you have your own canoe or kayak but the hard part is you need transportation on either end of the river.

Buffalo River Outiffers will drive your car for you to the take-out spot solving the whole problem for you. 

Crockett’s Canoe Rental

• Canoes
• Kayaks
• Rafts

Crockett’s Canoe Rental also offers overnight options if you want to go on a multi-day float, but you’re not allowed to float overnight in the rafts. Kayaks are often too small to fit enough equipment in so that basically just leaves canoes.

But to be honest we prefer canoes for overnight trips. The rafts are far too difficult to navigate, especially when they’re full of stuff. 

Lower Buffalo River Outfitters 

Buffalo River Float Service

• Tubes
• Canoes
• Kayaks
• Rafts

Buffalo River Float Service not only has float trips but they also offer guided fishing trips and river tours. The lower portion of the Buffalo River is great for fishing. Over 59 different species of fish, including Bass, Perch, Catfish, and more can all be found in the Buffalo River.

If you’re interested in catching a few then Buffalo River Float is a great outfitter. 

Dirst Canoe Rental

• Tubes
• Canoes
• Kayaks
• Rafts

You would have a really hard time finding anyone on the Buffalo River who knew more about it than the Dirst family. They were the very first outfitters on the Buffalo River and have been operating continually since 1951.

It’s safe to say that you would be in very good hands if you decide to rent with the Dirst family. 

Wild Bill’s Outfitter

• Tubes
• Canoes
• Kayaks
• Rafts

Wild Bill’s is a really good option if you’re looking for an all-in-one place. They have plenty of rental options, but they also have cabins so that you can stay with them. It can be really nice to have your outfitter and your accommodation in one place. 

Depending on how far you’ll be floating it’s often best to get up and out on the river early. Not having to drive too far to get to your outfitter makes the morning go a lot smoother. 

Buffalo River Arkansas Float Trip Campgrounds & Camping

There are around 15 NPS-operated campgrounds along the Buffalo River. Some have electricity and water and others are completely dry camping with no amenities at all besides a vault toilet.

There are also a few private campgrounds located nearby the Buffalo River that offer RV camping for big rigs. Buffalo Outdoor Center, Dogwood Springs Campground, and Shady Oaks Campground and RV park are some of the best.

Best Upper River Campground – Steel Creek Campground

• Tent Camping – 26 Sites
• Horse Camping – 14 Sites

You will often find people talking about Kyles Landing, but to be honest we really like Steel Creek Campground. It’s nice and secluded, there are beautiful bluffs on the other side of the river, and it’s often far less crowded than Kyles Landing. 

It’s also a really great option if you have a horse that you’ll be bringing. They have 14 RV camper sites that are designated for people with horses. 

Best Middle River Campground – Tyler Bend Campgroun

• Tent Camping
• RV Camping
• Group Sites
• Cell Phone Reception 

Tyler Bend is one of the main focal points of the area. There are Rangers that you can learn from and regular programs for kids. Tyler Bend is also open all year which is nice because not all of the campgrounds are. 

If you’re looking for cell phone reception then Tyler Bend is also going to be one of your best options. For most of the campgrounds along the Buffalo River cell signal is nowhere to be found. Tyler Bend is probably the only exception to that rule. 

Best Lower River Campground – Buffalo Point Campground

• Tent Camping
• RV Camping
• Visitors Center
• Dump Station

Buffalo Point has so much space, it’s by far the largest campground around. There is a visitors center, Ranger programs and so much more. If you’re new to the area then Buffalo Point or Tyler Bend is definitely where you want to be. 

The only real downside to Buffalo Point is that there is no cell phone reception. So if you’re a digital nomad or just want to have your phone work then head for Tyler Bend rather than Buffalo Point.

Can you Camp Anywhere on the Buffalo River?

Yes, you can! There are some limitations of course, but for the most part, you are allowed to camp along the river. You don’t even need a backcountry permit to camp.

Here are a few important things to keep in mind if you are going to backcountry camp along the Buffalo River.

• No camping 0.5 miles from established things
• Don’t camp in the caves
• You cannot camp for more than 30 days in a calendar year
• Always practice Leave No Trace principles 
• You must camp 50 feet away from a trail and 100 feet away from the river
• Be aware of water levels and stay safe
• Pet’s are not allowed on trails, in the backcountry, or wilderness areas

Buffalo River Float Trip Safety 

Knowing what to expect from the area will help make planning your Buffalo River float trip a lot easier. We’ve floated the Buffalo River several times and have learned a lot along the way. 

Here are some of the most common questions about Buffalo River float trips that we get asked. 

Is there cell service on the Buffalo River?

Don’t expect to have great cell phone service if you’re floating the Buffalo River Arkansas. The Upper Buffalo River and the Lower Buffalo River have the least amount of cell coverage. Often you won’t have any signal at all in these areas. 

The Middle Buffalo River is a little bit better and you can often get at least a text to send (depending on which carrier you have). But don’t expect to be streaming any Netflix while you’re at the campsite. 

Do you have to have a lifejacket on the Buffalo River?

Yes, the National Park Service requires that everyone on the Buffalo River has a PFD (Personal Flotation Device) with them. It doesn’t matter if you’re kayaking on the Buffalo River, floating on the Buffalo River, or anything else. If you’re on the river you have to have one.

The National Park Service also requires that all children under the age of 12 wear their lifejacket at all times while on the river. 

Are there snakes in the Buffalo River?

Yes, if you’re going to float Buffalo River Arkansas then there is some wildlife that you need to be aware of. There are quite a few species of snakes that call the Buffalo River area home and several of them are venomous. 

Rattlesnakes, Cottonmouths, and Copperheads can all be found in the area and frequently swim in the water.

But don’t let this stop you from going! You simply need to be aware of the wildlife and if you do see and snake, do not approach it, just let it do its thing and carry on with your float. 

Is the Buffalo River Easy to Float?

Yes! Buffalo River float trips are a great option for anyone who wants to experience this beautiful area of the country. The Upper Buffalo River requires a bit more skill than the Middle and Lower sections of the Buffalo River. 

But there are no sections of the river above Class II so you don’t need to be an expert for Buffalo floating.

Does the Buffalo River have Rapids?

If you’re looking for big rapids then floating the Buffalo River in Arkansas is likely not the best option. The entire river is either Class I or II so while there can be rapids don’t expect any big epic ones. 

If you want some level of excitement then look for a Ponca to Kyles Landing float. This is part of the Upper Buffalo River. Also plan to go in the Spring when the water is flowing the fastest for the best shot at finding some fun rapids to raft down. 

What Class Rapid is the Buffalo River?

The Buffalo River has been rated by the National Park Service as Class I with some sections of Class II. This means that the entire river is either “easy” or “moderately easy” and completely fine for younger or less experienced floaters.

This makes float trips on the Buffalo River a great option for floaters of all ages and skill levels. Even if you’ve never floated a river before you’ll be just fine on the Buffalo River.

However, we still recommend that you consult an Outfitter before you go so they can tell you about the current river conditions. 

Can Kids Float the Buffalo River?

If you have little kids then you’ll be happy to know that they too can float the Buffalo River in Arkansas.

We recommend floating part of the Lower Buffalo River with little kids or inexperienced floaters because it’s the most predictable and slow-moving part of the river. 

Be sure to consult with an Outfitter before your float so they can tell you about the current river conditions. 

Buffalo River Float Trips Wrap-Up

Now you know everything that you need to know to plan your Buffalo River float trips. Remember that most of the best places to stay book up quickly so check availability and jump on it if the place you want to stay is available. 

Also, be sure to check with your outfitter before your trip and ask what the river water levels are currently like so you can be prepared.