Paddling Gilbert to South Maumee

Parking is permitted on the Gilbert gravel bar. Park at your own risk.

NPS

This reach usually has much less traffic than the rest of the middle district. About 2 mile downstream of Gilbert are the piers for the old Missouri and North Arkansas railroad bridge. The 1982 flood reached the top of these structures. Long pools and gentle riffles mark this section of the river and can provide good fishing and gravel bar camping. Paddlers report numerous wildlife sightings including mink, river otter, elk, eagles and more along this part of the river. Cain (Cane) Island and a tall unnamed bluff (over 300 feet) are about 2 miles upstream of South Maumee. North Maumee access (river left) is ½ mile upstream of the South Maumee access. This stretch of river has a shuttle trip of approximately 1 hour (27miles – 7 miles is gravel road). The South Maumee access is on river right.

Details

Duration

6 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

Gilbert river access

This access to the river is at Gilbert, AR. Highway 333 runs 3 miles to the town of Gilbert, ending at a T. The river access is to the right past the old store. The gravel road onto the gravel bar can be rough and there are some deep sandy areas on the gravel bar. Parking is permitted on the gravel bar upstream from the access road. Camping is permitted downstream of the access road. Drive on the gravel bar at your own risk.

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.