Buffalo River RV Parks and Float Trips in Arkansas

Bluffs along the Buffalo River

The Buffalo National River is part of the National Park System. There are many access points to the river. Floating and camping are some of the most popular activities during the spring and summer months. RV camping is inexpensive because the campsites are very reasonable, and you can bring your own food instead of eating out. Floating along the Buffalo River in a boat or raft is a relaxing way to spend a day.

Shady Oaks Campground and RV Park

A small RV

This campground and RV park is located on 13 acres in the Ozarks. RV campsites offer free WiFi access, 50 sites with 30 or 50 amp service, dump station, and 76 cable channels. Pets are welcome. Heated pool is available during the summer months. Monthly rates are available year-round. Most full service RV sites are pull through. Current rates are from $24 to $26 per night (as of early 2010). Reservations secured with a credit card are accepted. Access to the Buffalo River is a three-minute drive from the RV park.

Shady Oaks Campground and RV Park
960 Highway 206 East
Harrison, AR 72601
[phone]
camptheoaks.com

Hog Heaven RV Park

RV camper

Just off Scenic Highway 7, Hog Heaven RV Park offers some of the best views of the Ozarks, because it is located on a large bluff overlooking much of the Ozark National Forest. It is a five-minute drive to the Buffalo River. RV sites offer 20/30/50 amp connections and are equipped with double 110V plugs with GFI for safety. All sites have sewer and water hookups. The park features a community bath house with separate his and hers facilities. Access to the bath house is by key, so only paying guests may use it. There is a cafe on site.

Hog Heaven RV Park
HCR 31 Box 110-A
Jasper, AR 72641
[phone]
hogheavenrvpark.com

Buffalo Outdoor Center

River rafting

The Buffalo Outdoor Center offers float trips down the upper part of the Buffalo River from March through June. Visitors can choose from day trips to multi-day trips. Buffalo Outdoor Center is a certified vendor for the National Park Service. Reservations are strongly suggested. May is the busiest month, and Saturdays are the busiest days for floating. Since the National Park Service limits the number of rental boats that can be launched on any given day, advance planning is required if you plan on renting float equipment. There are no restrictions as to the number of private craft launched on the river. Canoes and Kayaks are available for daily rental. Multi-day rates for three or more days start at $48.00 per day, as of February 2010. Rafts are also available; they require at least three adults to paddle. All rentals include paddles, life vests, and mesh garbage bags. Reservations secured with a credit card are accepted. Shuttle service to and from the river is available for an additional fee.

Buffalo Outdoor Center
Junction Arkansas Highways 43 and 74
P.O. Box 1
Ponca, AR 72670
(800) 221-58814
buffaloriver.com/explore/float.aspx

References

• Buffalo National River, National Park Service

Resources

• Shady Oaks Campground & RV Park
• Hog Heaven RV Park
• Buffalo Outdoor Center