The Buffalo River - The Herd That You've Likely Never Heard of in Northwest Arkansas

3/8/2024

Author: Adam Bratton
Read Time: 3 mins

What’s the first thing that pops into your mind when you think of Northwest Arkansas?

Likely Wal-Mart, Univ. of Arkansas, the Quapaw & Caddo Native American Tribes, and for all you cycle seekers out there, you’ve most definitely heard of the massive mountain biking scene that has exploded over the past decade in Bentonville.

What you might not know is that the Buffalo National River, the first designated “National River” in our country, weaves, and winds for 135 eastbound miles in Northwest Arkansas and it’s an absolute jaw dropper of a river.

Last March, I was fortunate enough packraft this amazing ribbon of water with an adventure buddy, and Commercial Outdoor Photographer, Samuel Martin and the images bring me back to this magical place every single time I flip through them.

Here’s some background on the Buffalo and a visual recap to get your own daydreams fired up.

Photo: Samuel Martin

The Buffalo National River is an absolute gem for outdoor lovers seeking an adventure in an undisturbed setting … something that is increasingly harder to find these days. This free-flowing river through the rugged Ozark Mountains is one of the last remaining undammed rivers in the lower 48 states. Fortunately, some forward-thinking politicians implemented the “Wild & Scenic Rivers Act of 1968” to preserve the Buffalo’s beauty. Generations, past, present, and future, can now enjoy paddling, fishing, cycling, camping, and hiking … basically a human powered dream ... in this little corner of the Southern Midwest.

Photo: Adam Bratton

Towering bluffs, dense old growth forests, and crystal-clear waters of the pristine Buffalo River create a picturesque backdrop for our 3-day packrafting trip. The evidence of Native American settlements and early pioneer life was present along the banks and brought a new respect and appreciation for what this river has experienced in its ever-changing existence.

With all of this talk about the serenity of the mighty Buffalo, I’ll let the pictures do the talking from here … enjoy the visual tour of one of the most scenic waterways in our country.