National Park Near Me
Menu

Buffalo National River

National River · Arkansas

A large bluff shelter near Buffalo Point.
Every year thousands of people hike to the Indian Rockhouse to admire this large bluff shelter. Photo: NPS Photo

Hours

See this week's hours below.

Entrance fee
The Park Service lists no entrance fee for this site.
Phone
8704392502
Address
170 Ranger Road, St. Joe, AR 72675

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 cruise through the Ozark Mountains down to the White River.

Hours

Buffalo National River

Buffalo National River is 135 miles long. The park is open 24 hours.

MondayOpen 24 hours
TuesdayOpen 24 hours
WednesdayOpen 24 hours
ThursdayOpen 24 hours
FridayOpen 24 hours
SaturdayOpen 24 hours
SundayOpen 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.

Things to do

Backcountry Camping, Backcountry Hiking, Bookstore and Park Store, Camping, Canoe or Kayak Camping, Canoeing, Caving, Dining, Fishing, Food, Freshwater Fishing, Freshwater Swimming, Guided Tours, Hiking, Horse Camping (see also camping), Horse Trekking, Horseback Riding, Hunting and Gathering, Junior Ranger Program, Kayaking, Off-Trail Permitted Hiking, Paddling, Park Film, Picnicking, Shopping, Swimming, Wildlife Watching.

Source: National Park Service data feed, checked September 24, 2026. Hours shown are the Park Service's posted standard hours plus any date changes it lists. Official page for Buffalo ↗