News Release

Buffalo National River Encourages Visitors to Explore Safely This Fall

NPS/O. Murphy

News Release Date: September 29, 2026

HARRISON, Ark. — Buffalo National River invites visitors to take advantage of cooler fall temperatures and explore the park’s many hiking trails surrounding the river. The park’s Preventative Search and Rescue Team will be stationed at select trailheads throughout the fall to share information about where to go, what to bring, and how to stay safe while exploring the park.

“Buffalo National River offers recreational opportunities for everyone,” said Superintendent Angela Boyers. “We want to help visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience in the park. Our volunteer Preventative Search and Rescue Team is dedicated to making sure visitors are prepared for their adventures on foot and on the water.”

Before visiting the park, be sure to plan ahead by following these tips:

• Tell someone where you are going. Leave a detailed itinerary and map of the area with somebody at home who can report you overdue if necessary.
• Know your limits and prepare. Search and rescue missions often result from visitors who get in over their head and become overwhelmed by trip duration, difficulty, or environmental conditions (air and water temperatures).
• Check the weather forecast. Give yourself enough daylight for day trips. If the weather forecast looks questionable, consider postponing your trip. If you decide to proceed with your trip, be prepared for adverse weather conditions.
• Check the river gauges. Thunderstorm events can cause rapid short-term changes that need to be taken seriously. Awareness of potential storms will help you make a decision about whether to go or not to go, or at least how far away from the river to set up camp and pull your boats. 
• Stay on designated trails. Carry a topographic map of the park and know how to read it. There are many bluff lines that offer stunning views of the park, but do not get close to the edge. 
• Leave No Trace. There are special considerations to make when traveling in the park's backcountry. Please visit the park's Leave No Trace page to learn more about Buffalo National River's Leave No Trace efforts.

For more information about hiking at Buffalo National River and safety tips, visit Preventative Search & Rescue - Buffalo National River (U.S. National Park Service). If you are interested in volunteering the Preventative Search and Rescue team, email [e-mail]. 

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