The Buffalo River is too LOW for float trips on the upper section here at Ponca. We recommend the middle or lower sections... View All Subscribe RSS
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The Buffalo River is too LOW for float trips on the upper section here at Ponca. We recommend the middle or lower sections of the river for canoeing for this time of the year. Our Buffalo River Canopy Tour is now open Thurs - Sunday each week: 7 great zips from tree platform to tree platform for 3 hours of awesome, unique adventure fun! Learn more here: Buffalo River Canopy Tour Zip Line Adventure

Weather Radar

What is airspace?

Airspace is the distance between the surface of the river and the underside of the Ponca low water bridge (see photos at right). The fewer the inches of airspace, the higher the water level of the river, which typically requires more skill of the paddler. Below are our suggestions for matching canoeing skills with airspace readings.

0" - 6" High water; experienced whitewater paddlers only.
7" - 10" Good canoeing; intermediate paddling skills helpful.
11" - 18" Good canoeing; some paddling skills helpful.
19" - 25" Moderate water; ideal for novice paddlers.
26" - 29" Low water, but still a nice float.
30"+ Too low to float from Ponca or Steel Creek.

This information is provided for general reference purposes only, and should not be viewed as specific advice. Whatever the conditions, always exercise good personal judgment and assess your paddling skills (and the skills of those in your party) before choosing to paddle any river. Have fun, but be safe first!

Don't want to camp? Treat yourself to a cozy Buffalo River cabin...

Buffalo National River canoeing info, including trip mileage, safety tips, and key park regulations.
American Canoe Association Paddling Safety Info

Zero Air Space
18'' Air Space
 
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