Overview Buffalo Point is a convenient, fun-filled destination for families and adventurists of all types. It's perched along the Buffalo National River, providing exciting river sports and hiking opportunities. In peak season, a restaurant is open at the facility, serving up meals for those who want a break from prepa…
Overview Buffalo Point is a convenient, fun-filled destination for families and adventurists of all types. It's perched along the Buffalo National River, providing exciting river sports and hiking opportunities. In peak season, a restaurant is open at the facility, serving up meals for those who want a break from preparing them. Recreation The wild river is a gathering place for water activities. Many campers spend their days fishing, hiking, canoeing or kayaking. Evenings are ideal for gathering next to the fire to revamp for another great day out on the river. Facilities Buffalo Point offers campsites with water, electricity and even a classic pay telephone. It's the only area in the park with a restaurant, open daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day and on weekends only from mid-April to Memorial Day Weekend and Labor Day Weekend to mid-October. Natural Features The campground is set along Buffalo National River, one of the few free-flowing rivers remaining in the contiguous United States. The river runs 135 miles without dams and cuts through the Arkansas Ozarks and into the White River. The region is surrounded by droves of lush hardwood trees and grassy open meadows. Nearby Attractions Two popular attractions within the Buffalo Point Area are the Indian Rockhouse Trail and the Rush Historic District. Rush was a zinc mining community until the zinc market collapsed and the settlement was deserted. Tours about the town's history are available. Buffalo Point is the former Buffalo River State Park developed in the 1930's as project of the Civilian Conservation Corps. Blanchard Springs Caverns, an extraordinary living cave, is a one-hour drive from Buffalo Point. Charges & Cancellations Please see the Recreation.gov Rules and Reservation Policies.
Photos
Painted Bluff at Buffalo Point with two red canoes in river. — T. FondriestThe view from Skull Rock at Buffalo Point — NPS/T. FondriestBuffalo Point Campground Trails — NPS/T. FondriestView from Buffalo Point Restaurant — NPS/T. FondriestSwimmers at Buffalo Point — NPS/T. FondriestPavilion 1 — NPS/T. FondriestB Loop at Buffalo Point Campground — NPS/T. Fondriest
How to Get There
From Springfield, MO: Take Highway 65 South through Branson to Harrison. Stay on Highway 65 through Harrison, turn left on Highway 62 and travel to Yellville. At Yellville turn right on Highway 14 East. Travel 17 miles (27 km) to Highway 268 East. Turn left on 268 to Buffalo Point. From Little Rock, AR: Take Highway 65 North to Marshall, at Marshall turn right on Highway 27 North about 11 miles (18 km) to Harriet. Turn left on Highway 14 West and travel about 14 miles (22.5 km) to Highway 268 East. Turn right on Highway 268 to Buffalo Point.
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to BUFFALO POINT
Heading to BUFFALO POINT? A few things to know before you go:
Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for BUFFALO POINT?
No central reservation system listed for BUFFALO POINT. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234043) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to BUFFALO POINT?
From Springfield, MO: Take Highway 65 South through Branson to Harrison. Stay on Highway 65 through Harrison, turn left on Highway 62 and travel to Yellville. At Yellville turn right on Highway 14 East. Travel 17 miles (27 km) to Highway 268 East. Turn left on 268 to Buffalo Point. From Little Rock, AR: Take Highway 65 North to Marshall, at Marshall turn right on Highway 27 North about 11 miles (1…