This free walk-in campground operates year-round along the Buffalo National River under National Park Service management. Campers access the gravel bar site on foot, carrying gear to riverside spots where campfires and pets are permitted. Cell service reaches the area, and alcohol is allowed within the campground boundaries.
The Buffalo River provides direct water access for swimming and cooling off during warmer months. One visitor noted enjoying solo weekday camping with clear river water and evening fires under open skies. For additional options, see camping near Buffalo National River throughout the region.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundGrinder's Ferry Gravel Bar — Buffalo National River is located in Arkansas
Directions
Located on the southeast side of the Buffalo River where it is crossed by Highway 65. It is well marked and easy to see from the bridge. It is between Gilbert and Marshall near Tyler Bend.
Coordinates
35.98491065 N
92.74408754 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 4/26/26
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 4/26/26
AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 12 usersLast on 4/26/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 4/26/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 4/26/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 12 usersLast on 4/26/26
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Grinder's Ferry Gravel Bar — Buffalo National River needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 45 min from Springfield, MO
- 1 hr 48 min from Little Rock, AR
- 1 hr 59 min from Fayetteville, AR
- 2 hrs 33 min from Fort Smith, AR
