Canoeing and kayaking are the most popular activities on the Buffalo River. You can choose between the middle, upper, and lower sections. The upper section of the river descends nearly two thousand feet, while the middle and lower sections are wide and easy. Besides, there are several canoe and kayak rentals in Buffalo River to make your adventure more amazing.
Located in western New York, the Buffalo River runs for 120 miles before it empties into the White River. A national park, the river is untouched and devoid of signs of civilization. There are a number of sections to choose from. Each offers different experiences for paddlers.
In brief, paddling the Buffalo River can be a great way to spend a day, but it’s not always easy. The Buffalo River is a fast-flowing river and can be difficult to navigate. There are plenty of places to put in but be prepared for some Class III and IV rapids. Depending on the time of year, the river can be very cold. Therefore, learn how to deal with cold weather when kayaking, and wear appropriate clothing. Then paddle hard and enjoy the scenery!
And if you’re looking for a great whitewater river, spring runoff can be hazardous. For the best canoeing experience on the Buffalo, plan your trip during spring or early summer.
The Buffalo River is home to some beautiful waterfalls, including the iconic Niagara Falls. If you’re looking for a longer adventure, Beaver Island State Park is one of the best options in the area.
Let’s dive in and read on! We’ll also cover the best spots for exploring wildlife and historic vessels.
Buffalo River paddling can be a great way to get out and see the beauty of the area. The Buffalo River is a fast-flowing river that can be paddled in a variety of ways. Paddlers can choose to paddle upstream or downstream. However, it usually takes about 3 to 4 hours to paddle the entire length of the Buffalo River.
The Buffalo River is a large river located in the United States. It flows through the states of Arkansas, Missouri, and Kansas. Cell service is available in some areas of the river; however, it is not always reliable.
Float trips on the Buffalo River can be enjoyed any time of year, but the best time to go is during the spring, and early summer when the water is warm and the current is strong. The Buffalo River offers a wide variety of float trips, from short scenic floats to longer, more challenging ones.
Top Canoe And Kayak Rentals In The Buffalo River
If you want to enjoy the waters of the Buffalo River, you need to find top-notch canoe and kayak rentals near the Buffalo River area.
Read on to discover what to expect from a great kayaking adventure. You might even want to consider renting a canoe too!
But before you choose a rental company, make sure you read up on their services and the kinds of boats they offer. Here are the best places to rent a kayak or canoe on the Buffalo River;
Buffalo River Outfitters
There are many Buffalo River Outfitters that offer kayak rentals, so you can find the perfect one for your needs. For an easy river trip, choose the Lower Buffalo River. The Lower Buffalo River is a more consistent flow and is floatable year-round.
But if you’re looking for something a little more exciting, choose the Upper Buffalo River. Buffalo River Float Service offers kayak, raft, and tube rentals, as well as shuttle services. They even offer guided fishing trips.
If you’re looking for an affordable kayak rental in Buffalo, consider the Buffalo River Urban Trails Tour. This two-hour guided tour takes you down the Buffalo River and around the historic waterfront sights. You can find out more about the river’s nuances by visiting the National Park Service website.
However, if you’re not quite ready to go that far, try a two-hour rental instead. Some Buffalo River Outfitters even provide shuttles from their parking lots to takeout points, which is convenient for travelers who want to take in the beautiful scenery while kayaking.
Elevator Alley
If you want to explore the history of a repurposed grain elevator, try paddling down the Buffalo River. Kayak rental companies in Buffalo provide an array of activities for beginners to experienced paddlers, including tours of the old grain elevator complex. Paddle the Buffalo River in the company of local kayak experts. There’s something to interest every paddler, from first-timers to experienced kayakers.
When exploring the city’s waterfront, don’t forget to check out Elevator Alley Kayak. This shop, located in Buffalo’s Barrel Factory, offers kayak rentals and tours of the historic waterfront. The barrel factory also houses a brewery, kombucha shop, and restaurants.
The Barrel Factory is also home to Buffalo’s largest outdoor specialty store, paths, peaks, and paddles. If you’re looking for a great outdoor experience, you’ll find all kinds of equipment and accessories there.
Silver Hill Float Service
If you are looking for a canoe rental service near the Buffalo River, you can try Silver Hill Float Service. They are a canoe and kayak rental service located at 9826 US-65 in St Joe, Arkansas. They have received 89 reviews on the Yelp app. Overall, they get 4.3 stars. This is a great place for a relaxing day on the river.
The Buffalo National River is the first national river in the United States. It flows from northwestern Arkansas eastward for 150 miles. This pristine river was designated a national river by an Act of Congress on March 1, 1972, ending plans for damming the river.
Besides, there are several outfitters along the river and on the road, including Silver Hill Float Service, and Buffalo River Kayak Rentals Co.
Buffalo River Canoes
If you’re interested in a scenic river trip, Buffalo River Canoes can be the perfect solution. The Buffalo National River is home to some of the largest waterfalls between the Appalachians and the Rockies, as well as massive water-stained bluffs and potential campsites along gravel bars.
You can enjoy a single-day trip or take a multi-day adventure. Either way, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views and an exciting adventure.
The river’s bed is rocky, and sudden changes in water levels can cause a dangerous situation. Always consult a river gauge before heading out on a float. Make sure to tie your canoe to a tree to avoid being washed away by rising water.
Generally speaking, April through May is the best time to paddle the Buffalo River. Later paddles may involve a long drag. But no matter the weather, there’s always the opportunity to explore this spectacular river!
While there are plenty of water activities available, most travelers will choose to take a leisurely paddle on the river. Depending on the type of river you choose, you can explore the gorge below Big Bluff or paddle along the Buffalo River. You’ll also get to see majestic elk and towering bluffs.
While on your trip, you can even go hiking in the area. Make sure you dress accordingly for kayaking, so you don’t miss a chance to view wildlife.
Crockett’s Canoe Rental
If you are looking for a great place to take the family on a relaxing and entertaining trip, you should consider visiting Crockett’s Canoe Rental. There are numerous fun activities you can participate in here, and the employees are able to help you plan the perfect day.
Whether it is a Saturday morning or a Sunday afternoon, Crockett’s can accommodate your group. Regardless of the occasion, you’ll be able to find the perfect day to enjoy a relaxing day in the sun.
The owners of Crockett’s Canoe Rental are former college football players. Bobby Crockett, who was the split end for the 1964 Razorbacks, bought the store in 1987. It features his former jersey on the wall. In addition to canoe rentals, the store also sells camping equipment.
Dirst Canoe & Log Cabins
If you’re interested in exploring the beautiful Buffalo National River, Buffalo River Kayak Rentals may be just what you’re looking for. They offer three and four-person canoe and kayak rentals and shuttle service to take you to and from the river.
In addition, they have fully furnished cabins with televisions, microwaves, and three double beds. You can also rent a paddleboat for the entire river, overnight, or for a whole week. Here’s our take on how to pack for overnight kayak trips.
Located just outside of Eureka Springs, the log cabins at Dirst Canoe & Log cabins overlook the Buffalo National River. The area is an ideal destination for white water kayaking, and these log cabins offer the ultimate in luxury and privacy. Moreover, they offer a range of innovative online marketing services. With the help of these companies, you can even get a domain name and web hosting for your website.
Wild Bill’s Outfitter
If you’re looking for a great way to spend a day on the water, Wild Bill’s Outfitter offers canoe and kayak rentals on the Buffalo River. This turnkey business is located along the Lower Buffalo River, America’s first National River. The emerald waters of the river are surrounded by massive limestone bluffs and are a top destination for thousands of travelers each year.
If you’re looking to rent a kayak or canoe, check out the concession area. There are many companies that rent watercraft, and most provide life jackets and paddles. They also provide mesh litter bags for your kayaks, as well as shuttles for you to the put-in and takeout points. The Buffalo River is a great place to cool off during the summer.
Lost Valley Canoe & Lodging
If you want to stay in a comfortable cabin along the Buffalo River, check out the newly remodeled Buffalo River Cabin. This cozy, year-round retreat is located on 65 acres, only 7 miles from two river access points. The Buffalo River Cabin offers a spiral staircase, a rain shower, and wood touches. It is close to three outfitters. It is also a great place to rent kayaks and canoes.
If you have a car, you can also make arrangements for a shuttle back to the final landing. Floats may choose any of these outfitters, so make sure to check the rules of the river and know what to expect.
The Buffalo National Park is home to many excellent canoeing and kayaking opportunities. The Buffalo River is known for its rapids, which you can explore in canoes or kayaks. Many outfitters provide shuttles for the river.
Some even offer lodging and other amenities to enhance your experience. And a few of these outfitters also offer zipline tours and rental cabins.
Top 3 Kayaking Destinations In Buffalo River
While in Buffalo, New York, there are a number of amazing kayaking destinations to be found along the river. Here, we’ll look at Lower Niagara, Kyles Landing, the Ozark Campground, and others. In addition, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top canoe and kayak rentals on the Buffalo River.
Kyles Landing to Ozark Campground
If you are looking for a remote and scenic riverside campground, Kyles Landing is a perfect choice. This site is located on the Buffalo River, just 6 miles from Jasper, AR. There are 33 campsites, water year-round, flush toilets, and a wide variety of hiking trails. You will also enjoy access to the Buffalo River. You can use the campsite as your base camp for a river adventure.
Near the campground, you’ll find the Hemmed in Hollow Trail, which leads to one of the largest waterfalls in the Midwest.
Head up the trail at the Compton Centerpoint Trailhead for access to this hiking trail, located within the Ponca Wilderness Area.
If you want to hike to a smaller waterfall, head west on the Indian Creek Trail on the campground’s southwest side.
When choosing a campground, keep in mind that some campgrounds have showers and restrooms, but others do not. You will also need a vehicle with high clearance to drive through the Buffalo River. Some campgrounds require that campers pack out their trash, so make sure you have a garbage bag and a small bag to dispose of it properly. If you’re interested in exploring a large area, you can also explore the surrounding area of Tyler Bend Campground.
If you’re planning to float the Buffalo River, make sure to check the river levels before setting out. You can also contact an outfitter in the area who can provide real-time river conditions. Lastly, remember that cell service is hit or miss in this area and that cell service in the region is spotty.
The Buffalo River Trail is a popular route in the national park, and the most remote of these is Erbie Campground. It is accessible by gravel road, and there are plenty of sites for horseback riders. The Buffalo River Trail will take you to various National Park Service campgrounds and gravel bars, while the Erbie Campground is remote and has no hookups or running water. Once you’re here, you’ll find yourself at the edge of nature, and the Buffalo National River is in your backyard.
Lower Niagara
If you love the outdoors, Lower Niagara and Buffalo River kayaking is a great way to explore this region. These waters are home to several beautiful and diverse destinations. One of the most popular sports in the 18 Mile Creek, which meanders for 18 miles through the town of Hamburg and continues on to Lake Erie.
Paddling this tranquil creek will give you the chance to enjoy the calm current that sweeps through the area. Paddling on the Buffalo River can also take you past grain elevators and historic buildings.
One of the most scenic stretches of river is the Lower Niagara, about seven miles from Niagara Falls and 25 miles from Buffalo.
It flows five miles from Lewiston to Lake Ontario. Many people also enjoy fishing on this stretch of the river.
You can launch your kayak at a ramp near The Silo in Lewiston and visit Old Fort Niagara in Youngstown state park. You can also enjoy a relaxing meal after your kayaking trip.
Another destination on the Niagara River is Buckhorn Island State Park, a natural wonder just minutes from downtown Buffalo. Compared to other spots along the river, this park is more natural. It is possible to kayak the Niagara River as well, but beginners should stick to the creek. The cliffs are eroded over the centuries, creating unique formations and features. Taking your kayak to the cliffs can be challenging, so make sure to check the weather before you head out to explore them.
Regardless of your experience level, Lower Niagara and Buffalo River kayaking destinations and spots will provide you with the opportunity to discover the majesty of these majestic rivers. With the waterfalls as a backdrop, you’ll never want to leave. There are many spots to choose from. Choose from the many spots listed above. They’ll provide you with a unique experience that you won’t soon forget.
If you prefer kayaking in a less crowded environment, try Ellicott Creek, a waterway that runs parallel to the Erie Canal. Paths, Peaks & Paddles is a great location for kayaking, as it is located on Ellicott Creek Road near Parker Boulevard. Count Park is just across the street. It’s easy to get to the boat dock from here.
Beaver Island State Park
There are several great options for water sports enthusiasts in the area, but some of the most popular and scenic areas are located in Beaver Island State Park. This 952-acre park features a marina with water hookups and electricity. Visitors can rent a slip for $10 a day or $25 for the overnight stay. Other activities on Beaver Island include an outdoor restaurant, a disc golf course, basketball and volleyball courts, and nature trails.
If you’re looking for an easier route to take, there are numerous places that will allow you to enjoy the river. Beaver Island State Park is a popular destination, and there are a number of scenic, flat-water spots for river kayaking.
The Niagara River can also be a great place to canoe or kayak. Although the river doesn’t reach Niagara Falls, Lower Niagara is a beautiful place to paddle or canoe.
You can paddle up to 5 miles along the river, starting at Lewiston and ending at Lake Ontario.
The Beaver Island State Park has an 80-slip marina and is accessible by watercraft. The park also includes a half-mile sandy beach, hiking trails, picnic areas, and more. There are also several kayak launch locations on the island, including Beaver Island State Park, Little Beaver Park, and Whitehaven Road.
Buffalo River Kayaking And Canoeing Guidelines
For an easy float, try the 4.5-mile trip starting at Spring Creek and ending at Dillard’s Ferry. After your float, you can explore the surrounding hiking trails and splash in the Buffalo River. After your float, plan some time to relax and enjoy the scenery. This is the perfect opportunity to unwind and catch some bass! Just make sure to pack your sunscreen, hat, and camera!
Be aware of the water lever
You should also be aware of the water level and river depth. River levels can change daily, weekly, and seasonally. Generalizations are difficult to make, so make sure you check the U.S. Geological Society’s river gauges before you head out on your trip. But don’t worry, they have real-time river levels and discharge information. Just remember that you can’t tell if a tree fell into the river last night or if a side channel is blocked by a culvert!
The Best Time To Go Kayaking And Canoeing In Buffalo River
The best time to kayak the Buffalo River is late summer and early fall when water levels hover around three to four feet. These levels are measured at the 65 Bridge near Grinder’s Ferry, so they don’t reflect the depth of the river, but they will help you understand the flow. A three to four-foot water level is normal for August and September. If the water level is lower than this, you might want to go on a trip at another time.
The Buffalo River offers three main sections for rafting, canoeing, and fishing. Each section is rated easy to medium, but be aware that water levels can drop dramatically at certain times. The Buffalo National River is dependent on consistent rainfall throughout the year, but even at times, the level can be low. If this is the case, you should consider paddling the Buffalo River in late summer and early fall.
Late summer is also a prime fishing time in the Greer Lakes, where water levels are still high. The lake is stocked with brook and rainbow trout, and a few big rainbows can be caught. However, late summer can be difficult because of pH levels and algae blooms. The best way to tackle the low-water waters is by float tube or float fishing with a nightcrawler or PowerBait.
Other Things To Do In Buffalo River
Fly Fishing
If you’re a fan of fly fishing, you’ll love the Buffalo River! This 153-mile stretch of water is teeming with big blue holes, pristine gravel bottoms, and rock bass. Whether you’re fishing with a small popper, brim, or a dry fly, this river has it all. The Buffalo is also one of the most popular destinations for canoeing, hiking, and camping.
The Buffalo National is one of America’s oldest national rivers. Because it’s a warm water fishery, the river is best fished in the spring and fall. If you’re visiting in the late summer or early fall, you’ll want to avoid the most popular weekends on the Buffalo River. The Ouachita River is less popular but has similar characteristics. However, you’ll want to bring your own fishing gear.
If you’re interested in a truly remote and scenic fly-fishing spot, the Buffalo River is a great choice. This river’s lower sections hold mostly largemouth bass and Kentucky bass, while the upper sections are full of brown trout. Floaters and small bead-head nymphs are very effective for trout and bass, and sowbugs are an excellent choice for largemouths.
You’ll find plenty of smallmouth bass, spotted bass, and other panfish species in this watershed. You’ll be surrounded by countless animals and can’t help but catch a few. This river is best experienced by canoe or kayak, as it features casemented pools and long, deep runs. Because it’s so deep and full of waterfalls, you’ll want to bring your favorite poppers or streamers.
Best Time To Fish In The Buffalo River
There are many advantages to fishing from a Buffalo River Kayak, including cool, clear water, abundant wildlife, and unmatched biodiversity. In addition to offering great fishing opportunities, the Buffalo River is also one of the first rivers to receive national park status. Whether you’re looking to catch trout or bass, there are many options available for you on the river. For those who are unsure of where to start, check out this fishing guide.
There are several popular stretches of the Buffalo River, but one of the best trips is to start in Rush. This stretch is part of the Lower Wilderness Area, and the scenery is stunning. Once you’ve gotten your fill of fishing, spend some time exploring nearby hiking trails. The river’s clear waters are also a great place to bring small children for a day of splashing around. You can also fish from a buffalo river kayak while paddling downstream at the end of a float trip.
During the summer months, the Buffalo River is busy with visitors. Warm weather weekends are prime times for kayaking and fishing, and this can make it difficult to find a quiet spot for yourself. However, the river does have several sections that are free of crowds. Regardless of the season, the Buffalo River is guaranteed to be beautiful! And it’s not just any river that you can fish on. The Buffalo River’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for paddling and fishing!
Wading
When planning a river kayak fishing trip, you may be wondering about the best fishing spots. The Buffalo River in western Wisconsin is a scenic waterway that is ideal for kayak fishing. Hundreds of cabins are lining the river, and the bluffs rising more than 150 feet above the water are a great place to start your excursion. You can also find great fishing on the bridges.
The upper portion of the Buffalo River is prime for fishing, and there are numerous spots for this activity. It can be tough to land a fish in the dog days of summer, but wading cool Ozark creeks can be a great escape from the heat.
However, if you prefer wading, this may not be the best choice. For those who prefer working in deep water, Bodishbaugh recommends fishing the Buffalo National River in late summer. The Steel Creek area is ideal for this type of fishing, as are the Kings and War Eagle rivers.
In addition to pristine gravel bottoms, the Buffalo River also has big blue holes. You can enjoy the natural beauty of the area while fishing for smallmouth, rock, and spot bass. Smallmouth bass are a staple species in this river, so you’ll have no trouble catching these tasty fish. While you’re there, you may want to try your luck with flies or poppers.
Lastly, canoe and kayak rentals on Buffalo River, NY offer all sorts of different boats to enhance you on the water. Moreover, there are several fishing charters and marinas. So you needn’t wait for anything! Just go and hit the water!
