1. Where are you located and what's the picture at the header of the home page ?

We're located on Rt 74 5 miles west of Jasper in Mt Sherman near the road to Camp Orr and Kyles Landing.

Buffalo Adventures is at 2200' . That's the view looking east, down into the Buffalo River Valley from Rt 74 west. The smoke is actually water vapor from the river on a brisk early morning as it snakes through the valley. You can see the full picture by clicking on "Buffalo River Valley" on the home page.

2. Arkansas ??? C'mon.......

Don't believe all that stuff about Montana being the last best place. We don't have the altitude but the scenery here is more than comparable to Montana, Colorado, Idaho and Wyoming. And I've spent lots of time in every one of them.

3. Okay...how does renting a canoe work ???

Please feel free to reserve a boat ahead of time if you wish or you can just drop in. Drive in business is more than welcome. We're open 7 days a week starting as soon as the water is floatable. And if you'd like an early start....not a problem just let us know.

All you have to do is paddle. Your canoe will be unloaded and loaded for you. There is no cost or deposit for paddles and jackets but please don't lose any as there will be a charge for that or damage to equipment from abuse or misuse. We'll even help you into your canoe and offer some instruction or tips, if you need them. Your satisfaction and safety are our main concerns.

We firmly believe in trying to make things easy and hastle free. We know plans change and things come up. So....if you make a reservation and are unable to honor it please contact us and let us know. We may extend you the courtesy of reserving a boat without a deposit and we think it's more than reasonable that if you want to cancel you let us know in ample time. In the age of cell and regular telephones....answering machines...voice and email we're sure that's not only a very reasonable request but not hard to do. Often people are deprived of floating due to reserved boats. So extend that courtesy to us and others by letting let us know in plenty of time.


4. People talk about water levels and how they measure the water and that the Buffalo is a free flowing river....I don't understand.

The Buffalo is not a conventional river. It depends on rainfall and runoff above us and to the south. Water depth and therefore water quality depends on several factors one of which is rainfall and runoff. Another is the forest greening and requiring water from the river in the Spring. Rainfall keeps the water level up. Usually the higher the water level the faster the floating. River levels should be considered based on your experience and will affect the kind of float you want to have.

You'll hear some people measure water levels by quoting the airspace under the Ponca low water bridge. Generally the lower the airspace under the bridge the higher and faster the water. The Park Service measures the river levels with guages and posts the water levels on a website www.buffaloriverandrain.com.

By watching the levels you can see how fast the river rises and falls and know the river level before you make a trip here.

The picture below shows the Ponca low water bridge at flood stage.Note the debris floating at the back of the picture. You may visit the Buffalo many times and based on these facts see a different river each time. When the river is up and running it is important you remember safety. Use your PFD and don't float above your level of experience and ability.

Generally you dont have to be concerned with water levels but there are times when water levels should be a concern.

If you have any questions or concerns give us a call or send an email and we'll be happy to help with your concerns about river levels or weather. Please visit our Rental information page for additional information.

5. Do we have to meet your shuttle schedule ??

NO. For that reason we shuttle vehicles not people. We feel its better for you to enjoy the river and not be rushed by forcing you to either hurry to catch a shuttle or make you just sit around and wait and worry if one will arrive soon. If we shuttle your vehicle it will be at your take out point waiting for you when you leave the river. If you're out overnight your vehicle won't be left unattended at an unsecure location. And you won't have to worry about how your vehicle is cared for and driven. Please consider bringing two sets of keys and making sure the key or alarm clicker you keep stays safe and dry. We've even been known to wash a dirty car every once in awhile.

6. So you're talking spring and summer right ??

NO. Arkansas has a beautiful fall season and very mild winters. If you want to canoe and we have water you'll find us there to help. Send us an email or call. We have these here computers at the office and home and do our best to get back to you as quick as we can. Life lasts more than 8 hours a day and believe it or not, we do too.

7. Is there a place to grab a good sandwich or snacks before you float ?

Stop and see our friends at the Low Gap General Store in downtown Low Gap...."conveniently located in the middle of nowhere." for a great sandwich and service.

8. Anything else around to do ????

We're a short distance from Harrison, which may be " the best small town in Arkansas." Branson is a short drive north on US 65 where you'll find Silver Dollar City, outlets and world class entertainment. You'll find whatever you like from golfing to trapshooting. Or visit one of our big lakes, Bull Shoals, which has more than 1000 miles of shoreline or Table Rock with 800 miles of its own. Travel to the nearby towns of Victorian themed Eureka Springs or Fayetteville, the home of the University of Arkansas Razorbacks. Visit Bass Pro Shops or catch a Cardinals Texas League baseball game or Missouri State University sports in Springfield, Missouri less than two hours away.You're only limited by your imagination.

9. Is there a easy way to find out about the rock formations on the Upper River ?

Yes...Here's a link to a site that may answer some of your questions. It also has some good pictures of the Upper River between Ponca and Kyles Landing a distance of about 10.5 miles.

 

10. We're trying to plan an overnight float or a trip....Is that a good idea ? And what are the distances between the access points ?

Yes....seriously that's a great idea. An overnight or multi-day trip is one of the best ways to enjoy the river regardless of the distance you travel. Floating and paddling at your leisure and having your solitude first hand. It doesn't get much more relaxing or romantic than that....Spending the night alone or with good company....while enjoying a great meal outdoors....listening to the sounds of water rushing by and relaxing under a starry sky....makes life pretty good. Did you ever sleep somewhere where there's no ambient light ?? The night sky is absolutely incredible... you might even catch a shooting star....

We've tried to give you lots of information on this site and we dont want to forget the river distances. So click right here and start thinking about that trip even if it's just an overnighter....

11. We're often asked about other rivers or perhaps you've even overheard people talking about floating a river somewhere and would like more information about it but just dont have the time to get what you need. We ran across a website ran by good people, Southwestpaddler is the most comprehensive resource for information related to outdoors recreation on or near rivers of the southwestern United States that is available either online or in print.It currently features over 365 reach descriptions on more than 220 rivers in eight states...and has been online since 1997. So if you're looking for information between anywhere between Missouri and Utah give it a try you won't be disappointed.

12. This area of Arkansas is perfect for a wide variety of outdoors activities. The geology...woodlands and wildlife are remarkable. So for those of you into mountain biking or would just like to try it there are several opportunities.

The Ozark National Forest even has a 50 mile developed mountain bike trail Syllamo's Revenge . If you'd like more information about the trails or guide services contact our friends at Falling Trails.

13.We'd encourage you to take a look at the works of the Ozark Society. Not only do they do a lot of good work but they offer trail maps...books...and various guides all in one place. If you can...check out or pick up Ken Smith's Buffalo River Handbook it's a definitive guide to the river...it's history and early life on and around it. They've done a lot to help save the river and conserve it for all of us.

14. What and where is the "Lost Valley" mentioned on the Home page? Lost Valley is a separate State Park in the beautiful Boxley Valley that has tent camping....a great hiking trail...caves and waterfalls. The Boxley Valley is home to a sizable herd of elk. Although not as close to the river for camping as Steel Creek..Kyles Landing...Ozark or Carver it is a secluded spot off the main road that is both serene and peaceful. Well worth a visit.

15.What and where is Indian Creek ?

Indian Creek is an invigorating little hike....only a few miles but definitely not for the faint of heart or those less adventurous..You can catch the trailhead from 74 and head down or at the west end of the Kyles Landing parking lot and head up......From below you cross the Buffalo River Trail (BRT) and turn left at the creekbed. There may or may not be water in this creekbed depending on the season. A ways up the creekbed you'll find two spots where the creek goes underground...On this trail you'll find the Arkansas Cave...Eye of the Needle..amazing rock formations....including a mountain crawl through...small waterfalls and some of the most beautiful country anywhere. But you'll sure earn the privilege of seeing it...Some say it's more bushwhacking than trail but whatever you find you won't forget it...and neither will your legs.

16. Once you visit Upper Buffalo River country....other than the obvious outdoors blessings you'll see lots of friendly unique people...If you keep your ears open you may hear a discussion about music...farming...quantum physics or just down home local gossip. But without a doubt there are some interesting people here...Talk to some...We're downright lucky to have all kinds of people...including authors...craftsmen and artists...If you have a minute take a look at www.scottspaintings.com and read a little Arkansas wisdom and about life in general...You'll see some local art and when you're done looking you'll feel good and might even smile a bit....

17. If you're looking for more of a full service resort setting take a look at Horseshoe Canyon for a memorable Western Experience with Southern Hospitality...Lots of amenities are available including horseback riding...lessons...trail riding...world class rock climbing and they're some mighty fine people to boot....You could call it a "dude ranch" but it's an awful lot more...and the setting well....it's just incredible...You can look down into the canyon from Rt 74 west just above Steel Creek...

18. Where are some good places to get gear ?

Whether you're already a gearhead or just looking for some information about gear or a deal there are an infinite number of places to go....Some of our favorites are Sierra Trading Post especially for dry bags...Trailspace and the Backpacker for reviews....And while you're there please check out the Ten Essentials and Leave No Trace articles on Trailspace...
Campmor has a great selection and good buys...
Hilton's Tent City for a great bargain basement.

19. How about fishing ?

Arkansas is open for fishin 24/7....365 days a year....and you won't beat the scenery or the weather. You can get a non-resident 3 day license for as little as $ 11.00 and resident 3 day licenses are only $ 6.50. Licenses are available online at the AGFC or telephone 800.364.GAME (800.364.4263). Kids under 16 fish free.

The Buffalo is classified as cool or cold water with populations of catfish...largemouth...smallmouth..rock and spotted bass...bream...sunfish and warmouth.

We're pleased and excited to be able to offer you a great fishing kayak and the only outfitter on the Upper Buffalo to do so. You can float the Buffalo or take one along to your favorite spot nearby. They weigh 46 lbs and are 9' 6" long and easily fit in a truck bed or an SUV. They tell us they even come in a color that helps fool the fish....Imagine that. You might like it so much you'll wish you had one and guess what ? We might even sell you one...imagine that.

 

Contact Information:

Buffalo Adventures
HC 70 Box 136
Jasper, AR 72641

Phone: 870.446.5406
email: info@buffaloadventures.com

For your convenience we have added a voice mail feature so you wont ever get a busy signal. We check our email frequently so you wont have to wait all day for an answer to your inquiry.