BUFFALO NATIONAL RIVER

ARKANSAS

Originating high in the Boston Mountains, the Buffalo River drops steadily past towering, multi-colored cliffs, some reaching as high as 400 feet, on its 150-mile journey to its confluence with the White River. This wild, free-flowing and unpolluted river was saved from potential impoundment in 1972 when it was established by Congress as America’s first national river.

The river offers active recreational pursuits such as canoeing, fishing, swimming and hiking. Inspirational and educational opportunities are also available, where one can explore the area at a slower pace. It is a place where a visitor can get glimpses of an earlier way of life, whether that is seeing examples of prehistoric Ozark Bluff Dweller cultures or pioneer homesteads in this beautifully scenic, rugged landscape. Three designated wilderness areas allow visitors opportunities for solitude and remoteness as they hike or float.

DID YOU KNOW

• The river’s watershed comprises 840,000 acres (342,667 hectares), with only 11 percent within the boundaries of the park. Nearly 90 percent of the water flowing into the Buffalo is beyond National Park Service jurisdiction. Therefore, protection of the Buffalo’s water quality depends on an effective partnership of all those who live, work and recreate in the river’s watershed.
• The hills and valleys of the Buffalo River have been home to generations of mountain families. Historic permanent settlement began in the late 1820s. Settlers cleared land for fields and homes, built communities, witnessed first hand the conflict of the Civil War, were part of population shifts and migrations, and experimented with industry to provide for themselves and the region. Many historic homesteads bear testimony to this pioneer life.
• The area encompasses a diversity of the natural resources that are highly representative of the Ozarks. Known as a biological crossroads of northern and southern influences, many plant and animal species of the Southwest, Northeast, and Southeast co-exist in the Ozarks. Armadillos, roadrunners, and tarantulas live with lichens characteristic of arctic tundra. More than 60 species of fish live in the Buffalo and more than 1,500 plant species are found here. Approximately 400 elk are thriving in the forest and clearings of this area after a 1981 re-introduction program brought these animals from the Rockies.
• Caves within Buffalo National River provide a fragile habitat for an array of sensitive creatures. There are 340 known caves, including the longest in the state of Arkansas. Twelve species of bats are found in the park, with three of these species on the endangered list.

DON'T MISS ATTRACTIONS

• One hundred thirty-five miles of inviting water provide stretches of rapids and lazy pools for floating. Bring your own canoe or rent one from any of the 14 canoe concessioners that offer this service. Or rent a johnboat or fishing guide service through one of nine concessioners available. (www.nps.gov/buff/concessioners.htm)
• Explore the Lost Valley. A short 2.1-mile round trip trail takes you to waterfalls, towering cliffs, a large bluff shelter, a natural bridge, and a cave that can be explored. Wildflowers can be enjoyed in season.
• Public use cabins located at Buffalo Point and constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s can be rented for in-park accommodations in a rustic setting. Thirteen campgrounds spanning the length of the park are available, with one allowing for reservations.
• Visit the Parker-Hickman farmstead, the Collier Homestead, the Rush Mining District, and the Indian Rockhouse shelter for glimpses of early pioneer settlement, industry, and prehistoric occupation.

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE PRIORITIES

• Preserving and managing natural and cultural resources “for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations” along with offering recreational opportunities are principal priorities for Buffalo National River. Restoration of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems is a major park goal, receiving funding assistance from the Cooperative Conservation Initiative. Close working partnerships with many universities as well as state and federal agencies, allow for research and management of many park natural resources, including elk, fisheries, water quality, caves, seeps and springs, and open fields habitat enhancement. Prescribed fire is a major tool in maintaining park landscapes by reducing fuel loading and promoting a mosaic of forest successional stages, which lead to healthy and diverse plant and animal populations.
• Work is underway on extending the Buffalo River Trail so that it stretches for much of the length of the park. Rehabilitation of the Rush/ Morning Star Mining area interpretive trail will provide an interesting, easy stroll through the heart of the Morning Star Mine operations, bringing to life this area that was active in zinc mining for our country’s defense at the turn of the 20th century. As the Friends of Buffalo National River grow in membership, they will partner with the National Park Service on providing volunteers for activities such as National Public Lands Day, assist in restoration of historic CCC cabins, and help in the development of a research and learning center within the park.
• Upgrading of visitor facilities has been a high priority for the park. New Romtec toilets have replaced old and unsatisfactory vault toilets in many less developed park locations, and new flush-toilet restrooms have been built in areas with high use. New park directional signs, a parkwide series of interpretive wayside exhibits, and modifications to campgrounds and day-use areas have all contributed to greater convenience, understanding, and use by park visitors.

Click a photo to view larger version.

LINKS:

Buffalo National River »

Partnering & Managing for Excellence Report»

Previously Featured Parks»