Buffalo National River offers tent campsites near Flippin, Arkansas with distinct terrain across multiple river access points. The campsites range from 900 to 1,200 feet in elevation with oak-hickory forests dominating the landscape. Winter camping temperatures can drop below freezing, creating quiet conditions that appeal to campers seeking solitude.
What to do
Canoe the Buffalo River: Float trips starting from Rush Campground provide beginner-friendly paddling experiences. "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," notes Matt S. about Rush Campground.
Swim at Dillards Ferry: Clear water makes this spot popular for swimming during summer months. "Beautiful spot! We were the only people there and it was very beautiful & peaceful. Water was clear & right beside the camp. It isn't my favorite camp site but it is my favorite swim spot," reports Kristen G. about Dillards Ferry.
Hike to Roark Bluff: Access this prominent geological feature directly from Steel Creek Campground via connecting trails. "Lots of wildlife such as deer, elk and if you are lucky black bears. Very quiet and every site has a picnic table," explains Joey C. about the surrounding area.
What campers like
Primitive camping with river views: Gilbert Gravel Bar offers beach camping with easy river access. "You can find Gilbert Gravel Bar off 65 just south of the city of St Joe's. Go through the city of Gilbert and you will find parking at the end of the road leading to a fairly large beach/gravel area. You can tent hear in preparation for a canoe trip," says Arkansas F. about Gilbert Gravel Bar.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dawn and dusk provide the best times for spotting local wildlife. "Saw a lot of deer in the forest right next to our site and in the field next over," shares Samantha W. about her experience at Steel Creek Campground.
Camping near natural swimming holes: Many sites offer direct access to river swimming spots. "The campsites are all in a big grassy field which I love. There are trails to the river nearby and a great swimming hole!" explains Lindsey P. about her time at Steel Creek Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions vary by campground: Some access roads require appropriate vehicles. "The road is steeply inclined and bumpy," notes Ashley & Derek V. about Kyles Landing, while adding "While 4x4 isn't required, I definitely wouldn't take any larger vehicles or tiny cars this way."
Limited facilities at most sites: Understand what's available before arriving. "This primitive campground was perfect for me and my dog. We stayed three nights in October 2020. Be aware that there is no drinking water and I didn't get phone service (yay!). There is a vault toilet that wasn't too bad," explains Lisa B. about Spring Creek Campground.
Busy season logistics: Many sites fill quickly during peak periods. "This campground is awesome. It's a few miles down a dirt road but worth it. The camp sites have tables and fire pits and are all next to the river. This camp sees heavy traffic during the day due to being the take out for paddle trips down from the town of Ponca," shares Joshua H.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection matters: Choose sites based on needs and activities. "Great tent camping. The sand may be a pain, but the sandy sites drain away rain water faster than the grassy sites that had standing water for a couple days after a big storm," advises Leah H.
Bring water supplies: Not all sites have reliable water sources. "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," explains Paul P. about Rush Landing.
Plan for bathroom facilities: Restroom types vary by location. "Bathrooms with flush toilets cleaned daily, but no showers. Weather and river reports posted at the bathroom daily," notes Leah H. about facilities at Steel Creek.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most Buffalo River sites work best for smaller RVs. "This isn't for Car Camping or RVing. Strictly a FCFS use area so come early," warns Brian about Kyles Landing.
Road access challenges: Consider vehicle clearance when choosing campgrounds. "However with a good down pour the road out can be a little slick as it is a very steep dirt road," explains Joshua H. about access to Kyles Landing.
Alternative private options: For RV amenities, consider nearby private campgrounds. "Beautiful private campground with access to Bull Shoals Lake. The campsite is lake view, and I took my kayak into a private lake cove. There's a bathroom and a shower, accommodations were much bigger than all other campsites I've been too," shares Vania M. about Aufderklamm Farm.
