Buffalo River State Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Buffalo River State Park is a scenic outdoor destination located in the state of Arkansas.
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Summary
It is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, crystal clear waters, and diverse wildlife. The park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking.
One of the main attractions of Buffalo River State Park is the Buffalo National River, which is the first National River in the United States. The river flows for 153 miles through the Ozark Mountains and is a popular spot for various water activities like canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Visitors can also explore the Blanchard Springs Caverns, which are a series of underground caves and waterfalls that are truly breathtaking to see.
In addition to the natural wonders, Buffalo River State Park offers a rich history and cultural heritage. There are a number of historic sites and Native American artifacts that can be found throughout the park.
The best time to visit Buffalo River State Park is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its peak. However, the park is open year-round and offers a different experience during each season.
Overall, Buffalo River State Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Buffalo Point B Loop
Buffalo Point Loop A
Buffalo Point - Buffalo National River
Buffalo Point Walk-in Tent Loop
Buffalo Point C Loop
Buffalo Point D Loop
Lower Buffalo Wilderness Area
Loafer's Glory Wildlife Management Area
Wilderness Leatherwood