April 5, 2017 | 9:00 AM: The water level on the upper Buffalo National River at the Ponca access is presently at 6 inches of airspace, (which is 4.29 on the USGS gage and 889 CFS). This level is currently rated as "High" by the Buffalo National River park service. The water temps are chilly and swift today, so solid paddling skills are recommended for canoeing and kayaking. We also recommend wearing a wetsuit and booties regardless of what kind of boat you're paddling. A wetsuit + booties combo is available for rent in our store for $15+tax.
We are launching canoes, kayaks, and rafts today from Ponca 10.6 miles to Kyles Landing . Call for reservations 870.861.5514
We strongly recommend that you be an experienced paddler to float this time of year. First time to paddle the Buffalo? Check out our handy "Before You Float" FAQ!
Boxley
River Level
2.46 ft
Very Low
Flow Rate
82.30 cf/s
Last Updated: Feb. 24, 2021, 1:59 p.m.
Ponca
River Level
3.02 ft
Low, but floatable
Flow Rate
137.00 cf/s
Last Updated: Feb. 24, 2021, 1:59 p.m.
Pruitt
River Level
4.38 ft
Moderate, Ample Water for Floating
Flow Rate
272.00 cf/s
Last Updated: Feb. 24, 2021, 1:59 p.m.
Carver
River Level
7.94 ft
Moderate, Ample Water for Floating
Last Updated: Feb. 24, 2021, 1:59 p.m.
St. Joe
River Level
5.62 ft
Moderate, Ample Water for Floating
Flow Rate
1070.00 cf/s
Last Updated: Feb. 24, 2021, 1:59 p.m.
Harriet
River Level
4.86 ft
Moderate, Ample Water for Floating
Flow Rate
1400.00 cf/s
Last Updated: Feb. 24, 2021, 1:59 p.m.
Keep That Canoe Upright!
New to canoeing? Build your paddling confidence with our short video of tips on how not to turn over!
Advance Canoe / Kayak / Raft Reservations
An advance reservation for a canoe, kayak or raft is always a good idea, as springtime float trips are very popular here on the upper Buffalo National River, especially on weekends. If you are planning to float on a weekend in April, May or June, we encourage you to reserve your boats now as last-minute rentals are usually hard to come by.
Floating With Kids
Check out our helpful "FLOATING SAFETY TIPS" page for some important things to consider before paddling the Buffalo National River with children. BE AWARE: ARKANSAS LAW REQUIRES that children 12 years old and younger must wear a USCG–approved PFD securely fastened to their persons at all times while on any vessel.
Buffalo Outdoor Center is authorized within Buffalo National River to provide canoe, kayak and raft rentals and transportation services.