Parks as Classrooms

Teachers: Whether you're looking to bring your students to the park or bring the park to your classroom, we've got you covered. To learn about Buffalo National River's curriculum-based field trip opportunities, click here.

In partnership with the Ozarks Unlimited Resource Educational Service Cooperative and science educators across north central Arkansas, Buffalo National River is developing an online database of park phenomena for educators to use to inspire curiosity and scientific discovery in their classrooms. Check back often, as this database will continue to grow.

 

Phenomenal Science Project

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  What causes the river's color?

  Turquoise Water
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  With scales like a dragon...

  Fossil Rock
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  Rock of many colors

  Mineral-Stained Bluffs
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  Tunnels dissolved in rock

  Solution Caves
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  How does land use impact rivers?

  Floodwaters
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  The earth beneath our feet

  Natural Bluff Shelter
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  Why is there green goo in the river?

  Filamentous Algae
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  An endangered species

  Cluster of Bats
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  What lives beneath river rocks?

  Dobsonfly Larva Underwater
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  How does fire affect the landscape?

  Flowering Glade Habitat
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  Rut behavior

  Bugling Bull Elk
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  Dinner guests

  Bald Eagle on Animal Carcass
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  Mussels flexing for water quality

  Arkansas Brokenray Displaying Mantle

 

Research Learning Centers

Left image
Steel Creek Research Learning Center
Credit: NPS

Right image
Toney Bend Research Learning Center
Credit: NPS

In partnership with Arkansas State University, North Arkansas College, and University of Central Arkansas, Buffalo National River manages two Research Learning Centers that are available as field stations for academic and volunteer groups performing park-based research. These facilities, located at Steel Creek and Toney Bend, can be used by approved research groups for overnight accommodations and classroom space.
 

For more information on reserving these facilities, please contact:
 

For Steel Creek Research Learning Center

Steel Creek Ranger Station

870-861-2570

For Toney Bend Research Learning Center

Buffalo Point Ranger Station

870-449-4311