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Water

Established Camping

Rush Campground — Buffalo National River

Rush Campground, near St. Joe, Arkansas, is a prime spot for those who love the great outdoors and want to experience primitive camping at its finest. With a handful of tent sites right by the stunning Buffalo River, it’s a fantastic place to unwind and soak in nature.

This campground is all about simplicity, featuring a vault toilet and a water spigot for your basic needs. Visitors have noted that the sites are regularly patrolled by friendly rangers who are knowledgeable about the area, adding a layer of comfort to your stay. One camper mentioned, “This is primitive camping at its best,” highlighting the appeal of the natural setting.

The campground can get busy, especially during the day when canoers and kayakers flock to the river. However, it quiets down nicely at night, making it a peaceful retreat after a day of adventure. Plenty of shade is available, perfect for those hot summer days when you just want to relax.

If you’re looking to float down the Buffalo River, this spot is the last stop before entering the wilderness area, making it ideal for beginners. Just keep in mind that the river can run low at times, so plan accordingly. Whether you're here for a weekend float or just to kick back by the water, Rush Campground offers a laid-back atmosphere that’s hard to beat.

Description

National Park Service

Buffalo National River

Rush Campground is a first come, first serve campground in the lower district of the park. Rush has 12 tent only sites with no electrical amenities and no flush restrooms. Drinking water is available when fees are collected March 15 - November 14. It is free to camp at Rush in the winter. All sites are limited to 6 people per site and each site is $16 per night. This is a pack in/pack out facility, trash collection is not available.

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Location

Rush Campground — Buffalo National River is located in Arkansas

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Yellville the turnoff to the Rush Campground is approximately 12 miles south on Highway 14. Turn onto County Road 6035 and follow the road approximately 4 miles to the Rush Town area. Past the Rush town about 1 mile the road forks. Bear to the right and the campground will be at the end of the road.

Coordinates

36.122747 N
92.550451 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
    Good
  • AT&T
    Available
  • T-Mobile
    Fair

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol

Reviews

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4 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 31, 2019

Hidden treasure beautiful place

This is primitive camping at its best. They have one vault toilet, 12 tent sites, and a water spigot. Right on the beautiful buffalo river. The sites were patrolled by rangers on a regular basis. However, the rangers were great and knew a lot about area. I can’t wait to go back.

Reviewed Nov. 1, 2018

Last Stop before the 3 day Wilderness float on the Buffalo River

This is the last stop before you enter the wilderness area of the Buffalo River. It was amazing. The only complaint is that at times the river can run somewhat low. This is a great place to go if you are a beginner level for canoeing. Very few fast running water.

If you are very skilled or experienced canoer you might be disappointed.

  • Review photo of Rush Campground — Buffalo National River by Matt S., November 1, 2018
  • Review photo of Rush Campground — Buffalo National River by Matt S., November 1, 2018
  • Review photo of Rush Campground — Buffalo National River by Matt S., November 1, 2018
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Reviewed Aug. 4, 2018

Clean but busy

This is a beautiful campground for the entire family. Fairly quiet at night after 11pm. Very busy during the day and evening time. Water gets crowded with canoers and people with kayaks. Plenty of shade options. Restrooms are pit-style, so dont expect anything fancy. Did not see shower facilities where we were at.