Woolum Dispersed Area in the Buffalo National River offers free primitive camping with direct river access for tents and smaller RVs. Located at approximately 740 feet elevation with an annual rainfall of 45 inches, this area serves as a strategic base for river activities and trail exploration. The gravel access road becomes impassable during heavy rain periods, requiring visitors to check conditions before arrival.
What to do
Kayaking the Buffalo River: Woolum provides convenient river access for paddlers planning day trips. The Buffalo River features Class I-II rapids depending on water levels and season. "This was a beautiful park with a campground that we really enjoyed riding around and exploring. We were there in April and the dogwoods were blooming," notes a visitor at Woolum Dispersed Area.
Fishing opportunities: Anglers can catch smallmouth bass and various sunfish species in the clear waters. "Great place to swim we go a couple times a year nice quiet and well kept love the picnic area right above the river try it you won't be disappointed," shares a camper at Tyler Bend Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer opportunities to spot white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and occasionally elk in meadow areas. "Beautiful park, very well maintained. Great for swimming in the cold Buffalo River. Lots of wildlife including elk," reports a visitor from Tyler Bend Campground.
What campers like
Secluded riverside sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy and direct water access. "Right on the river with both a rock and sand beach currently. Fire rings. Only one other camper that's at the other end of the campground on memorial weekend. Vault toilets. Good Solar," says a camper from Woolum.
Spacious camping areas: The open layout accommodates various camping setups without feeling crowded. "This is a very primitive campground, but it's one of our favorites! We can almost always find a spot to camp and it's super easy to pull our trailer into every spot there," reports a visitor to Woolum Dispersed Area.
Swimming holes: Natural pools form along the river banks providing refreshing spots during warmer months. "Kayaking, swimming, and fishing were great!" enthuses a visitor to Henderson Park.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Prepare for true primitive camping with minimal amenities. "This would be five stars except for lack of showers. Beautiful site right on beautiful lake. Short distance from town. Small park mature trees," notes a Henderson Park visitor.
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access roads can become challenging after rainfall. "I just tried to make a trip up there at the end of April (2022) and the final stretch of access road was blocked off due to erosion according to NPS. Not sure when main road will reopen," advises a camper from Rippee Conservation Area.
Cell service limitations: Reception varies greatly throughout the area, with better coverage at higher elevations. "Excellent cell service," reports a visitor to Tyler Bend Campground, though this varies by location and provider.
Insect preparation: Bug activity increases during summer months. "Buggy but Beautiful... Late September visit means the river is low, nights are cool and days are filled with sunshine. Bring the bug spray and sunscreen," advises a Woolum camper.
Tips for camping with families
Best time to visit: Mid-spring and early fall offer moderate temperatures and lower crowds. "We were there in April and the dogwoods were blooming. There were hiking trails, nice clean restrooms, lots of bike riding and nice large spaces," shares a visitor to Woolum.
Safety considerations: River currents can strengthen quickly after rainfall, requiring close supervision of children. "It's a beautiful spot on the Bryant creek. Its free, and its about as nice as you can expect from a free campground," notes a visitor from Rippee Conservation Area.
Kid-friendly activities: Pack water toys, binoculars for wildlife spotting, and fishing gear for young anglers. "A very great family friendly campground. A really quit and nice place," reports a visitor to Rippee Conservation Area.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Choose sites carefully as some have challenging approaches. "Be warned if you are not proficient in backing your camper sites 10-13 are probably not the best choice. You have to back down a hill quite a ways," cautions a visitor to Bidwell Point Park.
Water and waste management: No hookups available at most primitive sites, so plan accordingly. "Not great for big rigs, a lot of the sites are too small... our only issues were lack of hookups, bad weather, and some people who decided to crowd us and run a loud generator despite the campground being mostly empty," advises a camper at Tyler Bend Campground.
Road navigation challenges: Some access roads have tight turns and steep sections. "This is a wonderful small campground. Will not handle large rigs. Better suited to smaller trailers or tents," explains a Henderson Park visitor.
