Buffalo National River

Every year thousands of people hike to the Indian Rockhouse to admire this large bluff shelter.
Established in 1972, Buffalo National River flows freely for 135 miles and is one of the few remaining undammed rivers in the lower 48 states. Once you arrive, prepare to journey from running rapids to quiet pools while surrounded by massive bluffs as you cruise through the Ozark Mountains down to the White River.
Map showing location of park.
A dirt road runs through the center of the photo with a dirt berm on both sides. Barren trees with blue sky behind can be seen on the berms extending to the top of the photograph.
Cave Mountain Road Temporary Closure
Newton County, in coordination with Buffalo National River, will be closing a section of Newton County Road 5, also known as Cave Mountain Road, starting Wednesday, January 22, 2025, for road improvements.
Ozark Campground Flooded - 11/2024
Flood Waters Damage Buffalo National River Facilities
Many roads and facilities within Buffalo National River were damaged in the heavy rains that the area experienced earlier this week. Several inches of rain fell across the watershed between November 3rd and 5th, 2024.
Buffalo National River Announces Canoe & Kayak Rental with Transportation Services Concession Business Opportunity Application Process Open
The National Park Service (NPS) has issued a prospectus soliciting proposals to provide canoe rentals and transportation (shuttle) services to visitors at Buffalo National River. The NPS intends to award twelve (12) concession contracts. The new contracts will be for a term of ten (10) years.
Fire Ban at Buffalo National River
Effective immediately, lighting or maintaining a fire within the boundaries of Buffalo National River is prohibited.
An orange flamed fire within a ring of rocks on a sandy gravel bar can be seen in the forefront. A blue tent on the sand and green trees on a rocky bluff line can be seen in the background. Wispy white clouds are above the bluff line across the light blue
Fire Restrictions at Buffalo National River
Due to the continued dry conditions across the Ozarks, as of October 17, 2024, fire restrictions have been put in place.
A large bluff shelter near Buffalo Point.
Photo by NPS Photo
Kayakers floating towards Skull Rock near Buffalo Point.
Photo by NPS Photo/Ryan Stokes
Camping at Steel Creek
Photo by NPS Photo/Terra Fondriest
Floaters on the river.
Photo by NPS Photo/Terra Fondriest
Historic homestead built by the Collier Family.
Photo by NPS Photo
Fisherman with smallmouth bass.
Photo by NPS Photo/Ryan Stokes