Established Camping
Tyler Bend Campground — Buffalo National River
Tyler Bend Campground, near St. Joe, Arkansas, is a straightforward spot for those looking to enjoy the beauty of the Buffalo National River. With its picturesque surroundings, it’s a solid choice for camping enthusiasts who appreciate nature without the frills.
The campground offers basic amenities like picnic tables and fire rings, making it easy to settle in for a cozy evening. Visitors have noted the stunning river views, perfect for swimming when the weather cooperates. One camper mentioned, “The river is gorgeous,” highlighting the natural beauty that surrounds you here.
While the facilities are functional, some campers pointed out that the bathrooms could use a bit of an upgrade. There’s no shortage of wildlife, with elk sightings being a delightful bonus for nature lovers. Just keep in mind that most sites are first come, first serve, so arriving early is a good idea.
If you’re up for some adventure, the nearby Buffalo River offers excellent opportunities for kayaking and fishing. Plus, the area is rich with hiking trails that let you soak in the stunning scenery. Whether you’re pitching a tent or parking your RV, Tyler Bend Campground provides a laid-back atmosphere to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.
Description
National Park Service
Buffalo National River
Overview
Campers will delight in the picturesque river views at Tyler Bend. Located 11 miles (18 km) northwest of Marshall, Arkansas, Tyler Bend is set on a quiet, peaceful section of the great Buffalo National River. Known as the middle river region, the campground offers tranquil views of the river beside pastures.
Recreation
Small-mouth bass, catfish and sunfish are the most popular fish to catch on the Buffalo River, but visitors should be aware that an Arkansas fishing license is required to fish anywhere on the river. The middle river location also allows for extended seasons for kayaking and tubing. If there's enough rain, the sports can go through mid- to late summer. Get a dose of history by hiking to the Collier Homestead, a restored Ozark dwelling from the 1930's. The homestead remembers one of the homes built by settlers in response to the Homestead Act of 1862.
Facilities
The Tyler Bend Visitor Center is open year-round and has interesting exhibits on the history of flora and fauna in the Buffalo National River area. It's the primary visitor center for the region and provides several educational programs in the auditorium. The campground has 10 walk-in and 28 drive-in sites available, plus a day-use pavilion and five group sites.
Natural Features
The Buffalo National River flows free over swift running rapids and quiet pools for its 135-mile (217 km) length. One of the few remaining rivers in the lower 48 states without dams, the Buffalo cuts its way through massive limestone bluffs traveling eastward through the Arkansas Ozarks and into the White River.
Nearby Attractions
The Buffalo River Trail is accessible from the Collier trailhead parking area. This trail joins the Ozark Highlands Trail at Woolum, 14 miles (22.5 km) upstream from Tyler Bend.
Charges & Cancellations
Fee Info
Fees for the walk-in sites and drive-in sites (non-electric) are $20 a night for up to 6 people per site. Fees for the Group Tent Only Area (non-electric) are $50 a night for 10 to 25 people per group site.
Location
Tyler Bend Campground — Buffalo National River is located in Arkansas
Directions
From Springfield, Missouri take U.S. Highway 65 south for 109 miles (175 km); then turn right at Ranger Road (follow signs) and drive another 2 miles (3.2 km) to visitor center and campground. From Little Rock, Arkansas take Interstate 40 West for 34 miles (55 km), then exit \"U.S. 65/Skyline Drive.\" From here continue on U.S. Highway 65 north for 74 miles (119 km) and turn left at Ranger Road (follow signs) to the visitor center and campground.
Address
TYLER BEND VISITOR CENTER
170 RANGER ROAD
St. joe, AR 72675
Coordinates
35.9866667 N
92.7638889 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TAvailable
- T-MobilePoor
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 44 min from Springfield
- 1 hr 48 min from Little Rock
- 1 hr 58 min from Fayetteville
- 2 hrs 34 min from Fort Smith
