Warmer weather will be here one day, we can barely wait. Seeing Buffalo River Country dressed in spring is something you’ll want to put on your bucket list for Spring Break 2022. From the gorgeous river itself, to the surrounding nature and community, there is something for everyone nestled right here in Searcy County. Here are just a few ideas:
1. Go hiking
Cooler weather is great for hiking, and spring brings flowers and stunning scenery to the Buffalo National River! Tyler Bend is tangled with so many hikes, whether you are looking for a quick, easy outing or an all-day trek. Featuring thought-provoking historical sites and adrenaline-pumping river overlooks, adventure is waiting for you right here in the gorgeous Middle District.
Read about some of the best hiking trails.
2. Take in a show
Did you know that Searcy County is home to Arkansas’ only year-round Drive-in movie theater? The Kenda Drive-In is a community cornerstone and to this day is run by the same family that opened it 45 years ago. Nothing ends a perfect day of exploring or relaxing quite like a movie under the beautiful night sky. A full concession stand with very reasonably-priced snacks and food options makes this a must-do in Buffalo River Country.
Learn more about the Kenda Drive-In
3. Go riding
Horseback riding is a long-standing tradition all along the Buffalo River. And no better opportunity can be found other than right here in our district. With over 75 miles of equestrian designated trails, and drive-in horse campsites at Woolum, Steel Creek, Erbie and Hathaway, the Buffalo River is the perfect getaway for you and your saddled friend.
Find your next trail ride here.
4. Go camping
Once the weather becomes agreeable, camping opportunities are endless on and around the Buffalo River. Ready to rough it? Plenty of rocky riverbank is ready for you to call home. Want to go a little austere but still have a bathroom within reach? Tyler Bend Campground provides showers, flush toilets, water and picnic tables on and around their designated pay campsites.
Read more about camping on the Buffalo River.
5. Go floating
Did you know that spring is the only time to catch the water of the Buffalo dancing in sparkling blue-green? With the springs running out of the rocks cold and fresh, the lime contained deep within the stone stirs a jeweled tone into the Buffalo National River, making it a breathtaking sight absolutely not to be missed.
Find out more about floating the Buffalo.
6. Get coffee and go picking
Want to take it slow and shop a while? With so, so many shops located in Marshall and Leslie (just 10-20 minutes from the river), drop in and grab an iced coffee at Rock ‘n’ Java on the hill in Marshall and make it a day out with your best picker buddies.
7. Indulge at Ferguson's
Start your day the decadent way with a massive, delicious cinnamon roll from Ferguson’s, located right on Highway 65, just a hop, skip and jump from the river. Nothing says “today is gonna be a good day” than a cup of hot coffee and a sticky, soft cinnamon roll. Don’t take our word for it.
8. Cozy up to a fire
However much we wish the warmer days would hurry up already, sometimes the chill just hangs on. Beat the biting weather by grabbing the people you love and cozying up around a beautiful stone fireplace in one of our Buffalo River Cabins. Spring is so spectacular here in Buffalo River Country, you can’t see it all in one day. A cabin nestled in the woods is the best home base for all of your Spring Break outings.
Read more about our Buffalo River Cabins.
9. Find a waterfall
Now, now, now is the time to see all of the waterfalls you’ve been dreaming about! With spring rains in full swing and more on the way, don’t wait any longer! Did you know that the tallest waterfall between the Rocky Mountains and the Adirondacks can be found on the Buffalo River at Hemmed-in Hollow? And Spring is the only time to experience it at it’s best, so don’t wait.
10. Get your fill
End the day with southern charm and comfort food – both are served up in heaping helpings at Big Springs Trading Co. Here you will find a smoked meat deli, a full bbq menu, provisions, gifts, and Arkansas-style hospitality. This charming, tastefully styled building is home to some of the best food found anywhere on the Buffalo National River, so whether you are packing a picnic basket or meeting up to discuss the day’s adventures, be right at home and filled to the brim at Big Springs.
Check out Big Springs Restaurant.
Spring Break is one of the very best times to experience life bursting back into the Buffalo River. And here in river country, it’s the beautiful prelude to summer that not a lot of people know about. Make your spring getaway memorable by spending here in gorgeous Buffalo River Country.
What are you waiting for? Plan your spring break escape now!