Buffalo River State Park



With Buffalo National River on your doorstep, this peaceful spot is the ideal starting point for your canoeing, fishing or hiking trip on the protected waterway.

Begin your paddling adventure down the mighty Buffalo River or set up camp for a wilderness getaway at Buffalo Point Recreational Area. Find convenient river access, hiking trailheads, rental facilities and fascinating historic sites at this hub for discovery and relaxation in Arkansas’ north.

Whether you’re looking for a white-knuckle ride down the river’s rapids or a lazy paddle with the family, Buffalo River has a variety of float trips to offer. Rent a canoe or a kayak from the Buffalo Point concessioners and plan your adventure. Take a hamper and paddle downstream to a nearby pebbly beach for a picnic under the trees and an afternoon of playing and swimming in the gentle waters.

Seasoned adventurers can organize a white-water rafting trip and take on the surges of the powerful stream. Multi-day trips are also available for those wanting to cover a little more of the Buffalo National River’s scenic terrain. Alternatively, pack your angling gear and spend a few hours fishing from a johnboat.

Buffalo Point has a series of interesting interpretive trails that you can explore to discover different habitats and pretty lookouts dotted throughout the lush green meadows and stands of hardwood trees. Check out the Indian Rockhouse Trail or take a tour of the Rush Historic District to learn about the region’s heritage as a zinc mine. A 1-hour drive will bring you to the remarkable geological formations of the Blanchard Springs Cavern.

Unwind after a day of exploring and adventuring as you share your stories around a crackling campfire or over a glass of wine at the recreational area’s on-site restaurant.

Buffalo Point Recreational Area is nearby Yellville. The recreational area has several camping grounds, recreation vehicle areas and furnished cabins, as well as picnic pavilions and an amphitheater. Launch your canoe from the area’s ramps or pick from several other boat ramps within a short distance. Fishing in Buffalo National River requires a permit. Book your stay between Memorial Day and Labor Day, or camp for free during the off-season.

Popular places to visit


Top Buffalo River State Park Hotel Deals

Mountain Home Inn
Mountain Home Inn
2 out of 5
963 Highway 62 E, Mountain Home, AR
Mountain Home Inn
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Mountain Home, an IHG Hotel
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Mountain Home, an IHG Hotel
2.5 out of 5
1005 Coley Dr, Mountain Home, AR
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Mountain Home, an IHG Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Beautiful view of the beach with palm trees

Black Friday: Members save 30%+

Members save 30%+ on selected hotels until 4 Dec (property time) with our Black Friday deals. Stay by 15 Dec 2025.

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.