Local Adventures
Hiking & Scenic Overlooks
The Buffalo River region offers some of the best hiking in Arkansas. Discover bluff-top views, quiet Ozark trails and miles of scenic terrain. You can hit the trail right from camp or take a short drive to explore even more.
Hiking
- Old Railroad Trail – ~1 hour round trip with access directly from Camp Buffalo. Follow signs through the rear gate and turn left. Flat, easy trail with bluffs on one side and the river on the other, ending at a rocky beach where old railroad piers cross the Buffalo. Watch for bald eagles and where Brush Creek and Bear Creek meet the river. Pro tip: Stay right at the Y near the end to reach the beach. Top Pick
- Collier Homestead – Located at Tyler Bend and a short walk from the parking area. Stay left past the historic homesite and in about 15 minutes you’ll reach a scenic overlook where Calf Creek meets the Buffalo River. Top Pick
- Tyler Bend Trails – Several short and moderate hikes including Riverview, Spring Hollow, Buck Ridge and Rock Wall. Many are pet-friendly.
- Shine Eye to Gilbert – A four-mile hike along the north side of the river, popular with hikers and horseback riders.
- Indian Rockhouse (Buffalo Point) – Known for dramatic geology and a massive bluff shelter. About a 45-minute drive and worth the day trip.
- Stack Rock Natural Area – About 40 minutes from camp near Oxley. A short out-and-back trail with unique rock formations that’s great for kids.
- Rush Historic District – Explore the ghost town of Rush, a former mining town with preserved buildings along the river. Walk the trails or drive through and explore at your own pace.
- The Narrows (“The Nars”) – A popular and adventurous hike to a natural rock bridge overlooking the Buffalo River. Begins at Woolum Ford. Check your favorite hiking app for details.
Scenic Overlooks
- Red Bluff – One of the most photographed views on the Buffalo. Park nearby and take a short but steep walk down. Best at sunrise. Just off Mercy Lane. Top Pick
- Peter Cave Road – Park along the road after a scenic 30-minute drive from Tyler Bend. Beautiful rock formations and trees overlook the river valley below.
Pro tip: Continue to Snowball and return to Gilbert via Hwy 65 for a relaxing scenic loop. - Tyler Bend Overlook – Access via the Collier Homestead Trail. Stay left past the homesite and walk about 20 minutes to a platform overlooking the valley where Calf Creek meets the Buffalo. Great sunset spot.
- Ferguson’s Country Store – Want sunset views without the hike? Pull in here for easy parking and wide-open views of the valley.