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River

Buffalo National River

The first US National River — 135 miles of undammed Ozark water below 500-ft limestone bluffs.

Where on earth

Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to Buffalo National River, United States. Use the + / − buttons, or click the map to zoom with your scroll wheel; drag to pan and pinch to zoom on touch.

Region
Arkansas, USA
Country
United States
Biome
Ozark plateau river (100–300 m)
Best season
March – May
Trip length
2 – 7 days (three river sections)
Difficulty
moderate
Known for
  • Backpacking
  • Hiking
  • Rafting
  • Hunting
  • Desert Hiking
  • Canyoneering
  • Wildlife Viewing
  • Canoeing

Key takeaways

  • Biome: Ozark plateau river (100–300 m)
  • Best season: March – May
  • Trip length: 2 – 7 days (three river sections)
  • Difficulty: moderate
  • Top activity: backpacking
Loading live weather & climate for Buffalo National River

Topic summary

The first US National River — 135 miles of undammed Ozark water below 500-ft limestone bluffs.

Key takeaways

  • Difficulty: moderate
  • Best season: March – May

Intended uses

backpacking

Climate suitability

Ozark plateau river (100–300 m)

Verification notes

Last verified January 1, 1970.

Region
United States
Biome
Ozark plateau river (100–300 m)
Difficulty
moderate
backpacking

Plan with verified data

Buffalo National River trip tools

Popular pursuits at Buffalo National River

  • Backpacking

    Multi-day travel with everything on your back — see the packing blocks below.

  • Hiking

    Day miles on marked trail, with route notes and trail links below.

  • Rafting

    Whitewater sections and the flows that make them run.

  • Hunting

    Seasons, tags, and the units that hold animals.

  • Desert Hiking

    Water carries and heat management drive the plan.

  • Canyoneering

    Narrows, downclimbs, and flash-flood timing.

Animals around Buffalo National River

Browse all wildlife guides →

Last verified: 1970-01-01