Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding Buffalo River Outfitters hours & location, services offered, policies and more. For additional questions, feel free to call us at 870-439-2200 or complete our online contact form.
Where is your store located?
The Buffalo River Outfitters store is located on Hwy 65, approximately 6 miles south of St. Joe, Arkansas, in Silver Hill. We are located 1.1 miles south of the Buffalo National RIver Bridge.
How far are the cabins from the store?
There is one cabin located directly across highway 65 from our parking lot, the rest of the cabins are spread out down Blue Ribbon Road for about a mile.
Where are your cabins located?
Our Cabins are located across highway 65 from our main office on Blue Ribbon Road.
What is the closest city to your location?
Buffalo River Outfitters is located two hours north of Conway, Arkansas, on Hwy 65 and about 40 minutes south of Harrison, Arkansas. The closest city is Marshall, Arkansas, which is located 8 miles south of us. There you can find a grocery store and convenience stores with fuel.
What amenities are provided in the cabins?
Our cabins offer charcoal grills, a refrigerator, televisions with DVD players, all linens, a fireplace, heat and A/C.
What are cabin check-in and check-out times?
Cabin check-in time is any time after 3 pm. Check-out is any time before 11 am.
How will I check in to my cabin if I arrive after hours?
There is a message board in front of our main office that will have check-in instructions and a map to the cabin.
Where can I buy gas and groceries?
Harp's in Marshall is the closest grocery store. It is located 8 miles south of Buffalo River Outfitters. There are also several gas station there.
Are there any restaurants located nearby?
Yes: Big Springs Smoke House, Fergusons Country Restaurant, Las Azteca's and Coursey's Smoked Meats and Cheeses.
What types of supplies are available to buy in the store?
We offer drinks and snacks, as well as t-shirts, water shoes, dry boxes and dry bags, sunscreen, and sunglasses just to name a few.
What should I know about a river trip?
The most important thing is to be aware of current water levels and conditions. You should also be familiar with the Arkansas Waterway Laws!
What should I bring on my first float trip?
Be sure to wear weather appropriate clothing. Sandals or old tennis shoes are always preferred over flip flops or shoes that could be easily swept off feet. Dry bags are always a plus to keep gear you do not want wet. A cooler with plenty of water and snacks, river towels, and sunscreen.
What should I bring for camping overnight?
Sleeping bags/ hammocks, cooler with food and drinks, tent, dry clothes/ weather appropriate clothing, dry bag to store anything that you do not want wet it, sunscreen and a first aid kit. Find more suggested items here.
What is the difference between a beginner, intermediate, advanced and experienced floater?
Beginner would be someone who has never experienced a free flowing stream. Intermediate has some experience paddling in flowing to fast moving water. Experienced would be someone capable of navigating class II to class III rapids with ease and knows the hazards associated with the river at current conditions.
When is the best time of year to float the middle buffalo?
Anytime between the months of March-October, with peak season being May-July.
Do you sell fishing licenses?
No, but you can purchase them online at agfc.com or call 800-364-GAME.
Are there places nearby you can drive to the river to swim?
Yes, Tyler Bend, Grinder’s Ferry, and Shine Eye.
Are there any river rules to follow while visiting the Buffalo River?
Arkansas Waterway Laws should be followed while at the Buffalo River. Read more about the specific laws here.
Are there any hiking trails nearby?
Yes, there are hiking trails located around The Tyler Bend Recreation area which is located close to our store. There is a trail from Shine eye to Gilbert that is located on the north side of highway 65 bridge. There is a new trail from Grinders Ferry to Gilbert that was completed early spring of 2015. For more information, visit the National Park Service website.
Will I have cell phone service?
Cell coverage is spotty, especially in the upper and lower sections of the Buffalo. However, in the Middle Section there is pretty decent coverage (at least good enough to send out a text message).
What are the life jacket requirements?
A personal flotation device is required for every person on board a vessel, and children under the age of 13 are required to wear a life jacket at all times. We suggest every wears a life jacket until they are familiar with the river and its changing currents.
Are pets allowed on the river?
Yes, pets are allowed on the river however, the National Park Service requires them to be kept on a leash while out of boats and vehicles.
What is your reservation policy?
We require prepayment for reservations. We float Rain or Shine unless the river is at dangerous levels or closed.
What is your refund policy?
There are no refunds within 21 days of your arrival date, unless the river is closed, in which case we will refund your vessel rental and shuttle costs. There is a $25 cancellation fee for each reservation. This information is also clearly printed on your reservation confirmation.
How do I properly dispose of waste?
The Buffalo National River is a trash free park, practicing a pack in pack out trash policy. For more information, visit www.wilderness.net.
