Paddling Woolum to Baker Ford

The Buffalo River is a "losing stream" due to the karst geology of the area. Some places may be dry.

NPS

Call Tyler Bend Visitor Center 870-439-2502 for current information. The Buffalo River is a “losing stream” here and becomes a dry riverbed when river levels drop. The river can be entirely underground for up to 4 miles downstream of Woolum to Margaret White Springs. Several bluffs along this reach (Margaret White, Whisenant, Buzzard Roost and Peter Cave) are more than 200 feet high.

Peter Cave Bluff, about 2 miles upstream of Baker Ford, was the site of a tie slide when timber was floated the Buffalo. At that time a cable began high on the bluff down to the sandbar on the opposite bank (like today’s zipline). The log was stapled to the cable. It would hit the sandbar below with enough force to knock the staples loose, and the sand would soften the impact sufficiently to not destroy the wood. This stretch of river has a shuttle trip of approximately 1/2 hour (11 miles – about ½ is gravel road). The Baker Ford access is on river left.

Details

Duration

5 Hours

Durations are based on a moderate or average 2 miles per hour river flow. The length of a float trip will vary greatly with changing river levels. Additionally, float times largely depend on if you paddle or not and stop to swim, fish, or explore. Please check with park staff or concessioner for a current estimate on river trip durations.

Activity

Paddling

Pets Allowed

Yes

You are welcome to float and enjoy the river with your dog. Dogs make great boat buddies, but there are some things to take into consideration before you get on the water.

• Ticks, chiggers, and snakes live in the park. Keep the interaction between these park inhabitants and your pet to a minimum by keeping your dog out of any tall vegetation.
• Know your dog and their abilities, temperment, and level of stamina. A hot summer day on the river can be draining on people and pets. Know your limits.
• A life jacket for your dog is a great idea in case you capsize (do not tie your dog to your boat). Even though dogs can swim a life jacket can make it much easier to retrieve your dog in the event of an accident. If you become separated from your dog on the river call the park's 24-hour dispatch at 1-888-692-1162 to make a report.
• Respect wildlife and other visitors. Remember that when you get out on a gravel bar or access point your dog needs to be leashed in order to protect them, other visitors, and wildlife.
• Please pick up after your pet. This limits the exposure and spread of potential diseases and keeps our river corridor clean.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Woolum river access

The river access at Woolum is 7 miles from Highway 65 at St. Joe, AR. The first 4 miles is paved with the last 3 miles graded gravel road.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

The Buffalo River flows freely for 151 miles. Paddling is open year-round, depending on water levels.The river level varies from month to month, year to year, and section of the river depending upon rainfall. The western end of the Buffalo usually has enough water in the spring. More water makes this section attractive for visitors seeking a higher level of challenge with whitewater kayaking. The middle and eastern sections of the river are usually calmer and less challenging. In dry years, the floating season is short and can end before summer ends.

Time of Day

Day

Paddling in daylight is recommended in order to avoid any river hazards. Overnight camping is permitted along the river.

Accessibility Information

River accesses are gravel. No ADA accessible ramps at access locations.