Buffalo Camping & Canoeing

For Arkansas locals passionate about exploring the pristine beauty of the Buffalo National River, Buffalo Camping & Canoeing stands out as a top-tier destination and outfitter. Located in the charming town of Gilbert, often referred to as "The Coolest Town in Arkansas" and uniquely positioned directly on the Buffalo River, this family-owned and operated business offers a comprehensive and authentic experience. Whether you’re planning a thrilling canoe trip, a relaxing kayak adventure, or a comfortable camping getaway, Buffalo Camping & Canoeing is dedicated to making your time on America's first National River truly unforgettable.

What truly sets Buffalo Camping & Canoeing apart, as highlighted by numerous satisfied customers, is their unwavering commitment to exceptional service and a genuinely friendly atmosphere. As one five-star reviewer enthusiastically put it, "Absolutely love Buffalo Camping and Canoeing! My wife and I have been using their services for the past few years, and it’s always an incredible experience. This is a family-owned and operated business, and it truly shows in the way they take care of you. The team is always professional, friendly, and helpful from start to finish. They genuinely care about your experience on the Buffalo River." This dedication ensures that from the moment you arrive until you depart, you feel well-cared for and fully equipped for your adventure.

Beyond their excellent outfitting services, Buffalo Camping & Canoeing is an integral part of the Gilbert community experience. They operate out of the historic Gilbert General Store, a landmark established in 1901 and listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. This unique connection means that all your pre- and post-river needs are conveniently met, whether it's grabbing last-minute provisions from their well-stocked Country Store or unwinding with delicious food and live music at Ben's Place, their on-site eatery. Even unexpected challenges, like a sudden thunderstorm during a float, are met with accommodating staff, proving their commitment to making every trip "worth every penny." This holistic approach to the river experience makes Buffalo Camping & Canoeing a beloved choice for locals and visitors alike.

Buffalo Camping & Canoeing enjoys a prime and highly accessible location at 1 N Frost St, Gilbert, AR 72636, USA. This puts them directly in Gilbert, a small but vibrant town that holds the unique distinction of being the only community situated on the Buffalo National River. This means that river access, including the popular Gilbert gravel bar, is just a short walk away from their facilities.

Gilbert itself is easily reached via US-65. Travelers will turn onto Highway 333 East from US-65, just north of the Buffalo River bridge, and follow it for approximately 3.3 miles directly into the heart of Gilbert. This straightforward access makes it incredibly convenient for RVs, vehicles towing trailers, and even those just driving in for a day trip. For local Arkansans, this means a manageable drive from various parts of the state to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Ozarks and the Buffalo National River. The proximity of the campground and outfitter to the river eliminates the need for extensive shuttling or long walks after a day on the water. Their central location in Gilbert also means easy access to other town amenities, including the historic Gilbert General Store, which serves as their base of operations, and local eateries and attractions. This strategic placement ensures that your Buffalo River adventure starts and ends with ease and convenience.

Buffalo Camping & Canoeing provides a comprehensive suite of services, making them a one-stop shop for everything you need for a memorable Buffalo National River experience.

• Canoe, Kayak, and Raft Rentals: They offer a wide variety of watercraft for single or multi-day float trips on the Buffalo National River. This includes canoes, kayaks, and rafts, suitable for different preferences and group sizes.
• Shuttle Services: Essential for river trips, Buffalo Camping & Canoeing provides reliable shuttle services, transporting you to your put-in point and picking you up at your take-out point. They also offer private shuttles and vehicle pick-ups/drop-offs for those with their own watercraft.
• RV Camping: Their primitive campground is located approximately 3/4 mile from the Buffalo River, offering RV sites (30amp ONLY with water hookups). These sites are noted to have shower houses and restrooms available for campers. It's important to note there is no dump station on site, and a float reservation may be required before booking a campground spot due to limited camping availability.
• Tent Camping: For those who prefer a more traditional camping experience, tent sites are also available within their primitive campground, complete with access to shower houses and restrooms.
• Cabin and Lodging Rentals: Buffalo Camping & Canoeing offers a variety of lodging options, including cabins, cottages, and guest homes, some of which can sleep up to 10 people. Their accommodations, including their canoe rentals, are among the closest you'll find to the Buffalo River, often within walking distance.
• Country Store / Gilbert General Store: Located on-site, the historic Gilbert General Store serves as their main hub. It’s well-stocked with last-minute provisions, Buffalo River gifts, souvenirs, food items, and more, proving "super convenient" for all your needs.
• Ben's Place: Right beside the general store, Ben's Place offers delicious food, including highly-praised mango burgers, ice-cold drinks, and often features live music during warmer months, providing the perfect way to relax after a day on the river.
• Authorized Concessioner: As an authorized concessioner of the Buffalo National River, Buffalo Camping & Canoeing operates with the necessary permits and expertise to provide safe and enjoyable river experiences.

These extensive services highlight Buffalo Camping & Canoeing's role as a comprehensive provider for all aspects of a Buffalo River adventure, from outfitting to lodging and dining.

Buffalo Camping & Canoeing stands out with several distinct features and highlights that enhance the visitor experience on the Buffalo National River.

• Authentic Family-Owned and Operated Business: Customers consistently praise the "family-owned and operated" nature of Buffalo Camping & Canoeing. This translates into a highly personalized, friendly, and genuinely caring approach to customer service, making guests feel like part of the family. Reviewers often note the owners' professionalism, helpfulness, and genuine interest in ensuring a great experience.
• Direct Access to the Buffalo National River: Their prime location in Gilbert, directly on the Buffalo River, is a major highlight. This offers unparalleled convenience for launching and taking out watercraft, and easy access to fishing, swimming, and riverside relaxation. The crystal clear water, amazing sites, and abundant wildlife along the river are easily experienced from this base.
• Historic Gilbert General Store as Home Base: Operating out of the 1901 Gilbert General Store adds a unique, charming, and historic element to the experience. This "live working museum" provides a central point for check-in, provisions, and a taste of local history.
• On-Site Dining and Entertainment at Ben's Place: The presence of Ben's Place right on-site is a significant convenience. Offering delicious food (like the celebrated mango burgers), cold drinks, and live music, it provides a fantastic spot to relax, refuel, and socialize after a day on the river.
• Comprehensive Adventure Provider: Buffalo Camping & Canoeing offers a full spectrum of services from canoe, kayak, and raft rentals to shuttle services, RV and tent camping, and a variety of cabin lodging. This "one-stop shop" approach simplifies trip planning for visitors.
• Long-Standing Reputation: As one of the "oldest and most unique canoe concessionaires on the Buffalo National River," they bring years of experience and a deep understanding of the river, contributing to reliable and well-organized float trips.
• Accommodation for Varied Stays: Whether you're looking for a short day float, a multi-day paddling and camping trip, or a longer stay in one of their cabins, they cater to diverse vacation plans.

These combined features solidify Buffalo Camping & Canoeing as a premier choice for anyone looking to fully immerse themselves in the adventure and beauty of the Buffalo National River while enjoying exceptional hospitality.

While Buffalo Camping & Canoeing does not typically advertise specific seasonal discounts or coupon codes, their business model inherently offers value through their comprehensive services and package options. Their commitment to providing "worth every penny" experiences often comes from the convenience and quality of their all-in-one offerings rather than advertised price cuts.

• Bundle Services: By offering rentals, shuttles, and lodging (RV sites, tent camping, cabins) at one location, they streamline your trip planning, potentially saving time and coordination efforts that might be spent booking separately with multiple vendors. This convenience, while not a direct discount, adds significant value.
• Competitive Pricing: They maintain competitive rates for their canoe, kayak, and raft rentals, as well as their camping and lodging options. It's always advisable to contact them directly for the most current pricing, especially for multi-day trips or specific lodging units, as rates can vary.
• Value-Added Amenities: The convenience of the well-stocked Country Store for last-minute provisions and Ben's Place for food and entertainment on-site enhances the overall value of your stay without requiring additional travel or planning.

For the most up-to-date information on any potential packages, group rates, or special offerings, it is highly recommended to directly contact Buffalo Camping & Canoeing via phone or visit their official website. As a family-owned business known for being accommodating, they may be able to tailor solutions for specific group needs or extended stays.

To plan your unforgettable Buffalo National River adventure with Buffalo Camping & Canoeing, please use the following contact details:

Address: 1 N Frost St, Gilbert, AR 72636, USA

Phone: (870) 439-2888

Mobile Phone: +1 870-439-2888

Email: GilbertRiverFun@gmail.com

Website: You can find more information and potentially book services through their website, which is often associated with the Gilbert General Store at www.gilbertstore.com.

Calling is often the best method for real-time inquiries, especially regarding watercraft availability, specific lodging options, and any requirements for booking campground sites (such as needing a float reservation). The friendly and professional staff are readily available to assist with your planning.

For Arkansas locals, Buffalo Camping & Canoeing represents an ideal choice for experiencing the renowned beauty and recreational opportunities of the Buffalo National River. Its paramount suitability stems from several key factors that resonate deeply with the local desire for authentic, accessible, and well-supported outdoor adventures right here in our home state.

Firstly, the prime location in Gilbert, the sole town directly on the Buffalo National River, offers unmatched convenience. This means less time traveling and more time enjoying the clear waters, towering bluffs, and abundant wildlife that define the Buffalo. Locals can easily drive for a day trip or an extended stay, knowing that river access is virtually at their doorstep. This direct proximity to the river, combined with easy access to US-65, makes it a hassle-free escape for Arkansans across the region.

Secondly, the family-owned and operated nature of Buffalo Camping & Canoeing fosters a welcoming and reliable environment. As Arkansans, we value genuine hospitality, and the consistent reviews praising the owners' friendliness, professionalism, and genuine care for their guests speak volumes. This personal touch ensures that every trip, whether it's your first or a cherished annual tradition, feels comfortable and well-supported, even when unexpected challenges arise, as highlighted by a reviewer's experience with a sudden storm.

Furthermore, the comprehensive range of services, all conveniently available from the historic Gilbert General Store, simplifies the entire outdoor adventure. From rentals of canoes, kayaks, and rafts, to shuttle services, and various camping and lodging options (RV sites, tent sites, and cabins), Buffalo Camping & Canoeing acts as a complete outfitter. Adding to this convenience is Ben's Place, offering delicious food and a lively atmosphere post-float, allowing locals to fully immerse themselves in the experience without needing to seek amenities elsewhere. This integrated approach allows Arkansas families and friends to focus on making memories on the river rather than logistical planning.

In essence, Buffalo Camping & Canoeing provides an accessible, enjoyable, and genuinely supportive gateway to one of Arkansas's most beloved natural treasures. It’s a place where the spirit of the Ozarks meets warm hospitality, making it the perfect local choice for any Buffalo River adventure.