Last updated: November 8, 2020
Thing to Do
Paddling Tyler Bend to Grinder's Ferry
NPS
This is a mostly flat reach commonly used for tubing due to the shorter distance between accesses. This stretch of river has a shuttle trip of approximately 10 minutes (3 miles). The Grinder's Ferry access is on river right.
Details
Duration
1 Hour
This is a 1 mile reach. It is popular for floating on innertubes.
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.
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
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Tyler Bend river access
The river access at Tyler Bend is at the end of a paved road about 3 miles off Highway 65 between St. Joe, AR and Marshall, AR.
Two accesses can be used at Tyler Bend. The upper launch is on the gravel road across from the entrance to the group campsites. This launch is reserved for concession operations during certain hours in the busiest season. Read and obey posted signs.
The lower launch is at the end of the paved road. Turning around here is difficult. This is a loading/unloading area only. Park in the parking lot in the picnic area.
Two accesses can be used at Tyler Bend. The upper launch is on the gravel road across from the entrance to the group campsites. This launch is reserved for concession operations during certain hours in the busiest season. Read and obey posted signs.
The lower launch is at the end of the paved road. Turning around here is difficult. This is a loading/unloading area only. Park in the parking lot in the picnic area.
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.
NPS