KAYAKS AND RIVER RATS: 
WATERWAYS OF NORTHWEST ARKANSAS
Written By: Yarden

Hiking and climbing the forest along its trails is the best way to take in the views and get a few pictures at the rest areas, however for the intrepid explorers the river remains as the wild road through the hillside. 

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"All who thirst, go to water.."

-Isaiah (Yeshayahu) 55:1

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If you're in the mood for a slow and steady float in a canoe, the Buffalo National River never disappoints, with its long pools and steady rapids. Established in 1972, the Buffalo National River runs freely for 135 miles and is one of the last few undammed rivers in the continental United States. 

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The Buffalo River is full of fish like perch, small mouth bass, and alligator gar, with the elusive turtle or river otter splashing into its pools, there's always a sandy bar to pull up to, and make camp.

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Putting in boats at Kyles Landing or further upstream at Steel Creek is a great spot to begin your adventure on the Buffalo River, slowly floating your way down stream to the take out at the Pruitt Bridge. 

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However, if a leisurely float down the Buffalo doesn't quite do it for you, some white water on the Piney Creeks will be sure to shake you up. 

 

The Piney Creeks Wildlife Management Area (WMA) holds a rugged 176,000 acres of tough Ozark mountain land. Wildlife can be seen year round in the Piney Creek WMA like deer, bear, turkey, squirrels, and you are allowed to camp anywhere in the WMA, except on food plots and areas marked closed to camping. 

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On the Piney, I suggest to put your boats in anywhere north of the Longpool Recreation Area, right after a big rain the river will be rocking, and you'll need to get strapped in for adventure! Read more about the Long Pool Rec Area HERE. 

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