We parked at the stables and hiked around from Steel Creek through the Old River Trail. The Buffalo River Trail was great but covered in fall leaves so we sometimes had a hard time keeping track of the trail. The forest was beautiful and we saw no one on the part of the trail we were on. Once we got close to Horseshoe Bend we saw a lot of people out and it was nice. We took Old River Trail to get back to our car. The water was not too high... up to our knees at the deepest point, so crossing the river almost 10 times on the ORT was okay. It was a pain changing shoes several times. The water was freezing for sure. We loved the park and driving in the area. It was very beautiful. Next time hope to get there when the fall leaves are still in the trees, I'm sure it's a sight to behold.
This is a gem of the South for sure. The Ozarks are an incredibly beautiful drive and place to; camp, hike, canoe, fish, hunt and explore. Buffalo Point has cabins to rent and some have spectacular views. Cabins 13 & 14 are the best. No luxuries here, very basic but clean. Bring your groceries and stay for awhile. When the ticks are out, be sure to spray yourself. Tick fever is no fun!
We floated the river yesterday and it is in great shape. We put in at Dillinger and got out at the Highway 14 Bridge.
A beautiful part of America has been saved with the establishment of this park. The politicians wanted to put a dam on the Buffalo River. It's one of the few remaining undammed rivers in the nation. Fortunately, the people rose up to save it. And it's so worth it. The river is clean and clear. One can boat its entire 150 mile length in 10 easy days. Or you can boat just part of it. There are concessionaires, athorized by the National Park Service, that will drop you off so you can float to your vehicle. Then you just leave the canoe, kayak or raft for them to pick up. There are many great programs for you to attend, especially in the summer, but at other times of the year, too. We went on a guided hike through a wild cave. It was fantastic. We saw blind, white salamanders that live their whole lives in pitch darkness. And we saw bats close enough to touch, which, of course, we didn't. You can't go into the cave unless you're willing to respect it. The park provided all the gear. It was grueling, but so worth it. Buffalo point, at the east end of the park, has a wonderful campground, with electric hook ups. Just fill your tanks when you get there, and use the dump station when you leave. The sites overlook the river. This is a fantastic park, a true American treasure. We spent a week here and can't wait to go back!
Stayed at the Buffalo Point campground on the Buffalo National river and had a wonderful week full of hiking, kayaking, and canoeing. We were all looking forward to a great float trip but were surprised to discover that one of the hiking trails turned out to be the highlight of the trip! the trailhead was just before you get to the only restaurant in the park and leads you down, down, down through woods, over rocks, along waterways and into some of the most picturesque areas you can imagine. Through most of this "moderate difficulty" hike, you feel like you're in a brochure picture. It's not one of those trails where you walk forever to get to some scenic attraction along the trail. You come upon one after another wonderful sights. A beautiful waterfall that drops into a fern covered grotto with huge Cyprus trees shading the cool misty air. A never ending area of carved bedrock smoothed by the waters of a small stream and in areas, cut into curvy formations and refreshing, deep, crystal clear pools. And last but not least, a cave with an underground river running through it that peeks out for many yards before disappearing again into the hillside where you can stand above it and hear the low roar of the water below.
We spent the day kayaking with our best friends. This river is absolutely beautiful. There were plenty of places to stop off and have a snack and enjoy the beautiful scenery. It's a great way to spend the day!
If you like to be outdoors and enjoy spending a day on the water come and visit the Buffalo National River - the upper river runs low in Summer so try this in the Spring time. IMO, the upper is the best part but it is all beautiful. IF you don't like to floating (tube, kayak, canoe) then take a hike or trail ride the views are incredible. Get out there and breath in some fresh air. Several canoe rental areas - Lost Valley, Buffalo Outfitters, Silverhill, Jasper etc...
My husband and I love to travel to the Ozark's. This river is so beautiful and peaceful. We had a wonderful swim at the Ponca low water bridge, fresh and cooling ! I escape here in my mind every chance I get!
Excellent area for hiking, seeing the Ozarks, and the Buffalo River. If on the upper end of Buffalo, take in the Boxley Valley area at dusk each day to see the local elk herd. We visit this area 2 to 3 times a year and always enjoy the scenery, wildlife, and remoteness!
I spent a month of my youth traveling this river with my heeler. It is unforgiving, but totally for giving...peace, solitude, and spectacular, well-earned memories. The Steel Creek Camp was usually wide open in February. There is nothing like waking up to a herd of Roosevelt Elk sniffing around your tent with a cattle dog inside!