There S Something Unique About This One River In Arkansas

When it comes to wild places worthy of federal protection, the Natural State is a place of firsts. Hot Springs Reservation, now called Hot Springs National Park, was the first piece of land in the U.S. to be federally preserved for recreation. This happened in 1832, long before the concept of national parks had even been considered. In 1972, another first for the nation came from the Natural State. The incredibly scenic Buffalo River was designated as the first National River.

Flowing from the highest part of the Boston Mountains, which together compose the highest peaks in the Ozark Mountain Range, and surrounded by the Ozark National Forest, this river is a wonder that every Arkansan needs to visit at least once. It’s been designated as both a National Scenic River and a National Wild River, and there’s no better place for an epic adventure in the Natural State.

Flickr/Jimmy Emerson DVM

The fall colors are especially beautiful.

Flickr/jpelljen

Actually, it’s quite beautiful during all the seasons.

Flickr/Buffalo Outdoor Center

In times of heavy rainfall, you can find waterfalls in the grottoes near the headwaters of the Buffalo National River.

Flickr/Buffalo Outdoor Center

You may even find elk there.

Flickr/NPCA

The bluffs you’ll find in the upper Buffalo National River are gorgeous.

Flickr/Buffalo Outdoor Center

Flickr/Buffalo Outdoor Center

It’s a great place to go with friends.

Flickr/Buffalo Outdoor Center

But it’s also a great place to find some solitude.

Flickr/Buffalo Outdoor Center

You’ll find some great fishing spots there.

Flickr/Oakley Originals

There are plenty of places to camp.

Flickr/Andrew Hoffman

Or you can rent a cabin for the weekend.

Flickr/Buffalo Outdoor Center

If you don’t have your own equipment, no worries. There are plenty of outfitters up that way who can help you out.

Flickr/Buffalo Outdoor Center Including Buffalo Outdoor Center.

It’s gorgeous at any time of day . . .

Flickr/AR Nature Gal

. . . or night. . .

Flickr/Buffalo Outdoor Center

. . . and you should go there right now.

Flickr/AR Nature Gal

These are the best rivers for an awesome float trip in Arkansas.

Flickr/Jimmy Emerson DVM

Flickr/jpelljen

Flickr/Buffalo Outdoor Center

Flickr/NPCA

Flickr/Oakley Originals

Flickr/Andrew Hoffman

Including Buffalo Outdoor Center.

Flickr/AR Nature Gal

For some river fun closer to town, check out these amazing river towns.

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