Buffalo Outdoor Center

Buffalo Outdoor Center Welcome to your Center of Adventure for Ponca and the upper Buffalo National River! Est. 1976 We also opened our new 5,000-sq. ft. Need help finding a trailhead?

In 1974, Mike Mills made the risky decision to opt out of medical school and, instead, strive to make a living doing what he loved best---canoeing and hiking the Buffalo National River. That was back when the roads here were still unpaved and you paddled an aluminum canoe since lighter, more nimble ABS plastic boats didn't yet exist. There was also no such thing as Gortex, online weather apps, or

the current river level conveniently available on the internet. You simply rolled with the punches and ran the Buffalo regardless of rain or shine, loving every single minute of it. Over 45 years later, Mike's vision of creating an adventure resort has gone from dream to reality. What began as a canoeing operation has now grown to 22 rental cabins and 2 beautiful group lodges, kayaks and rafts added to the boat rental fleet, and Arkansas' first zip line tour. retail store and deli in the spring of 2013 on the site of our previous 1,000-sq ft store. In 2016, we opened Ponca's first RV park, featuring full hookups and a sweeping view across the mountains. In the fall of 2020, we opened the longest, most extreme downhill mountain bike trail in Arkansas---the Ponca Downhill. Recently, we opened a backcountry

With 45 years of adventure behind us, being our guest means you'll get a deep dive into all things Buffalo National River. Our goal is simple---to show you the wonders of this magnificent river as no one else can. Connecting you and those you love with America's first national river is at the heart of everything we do. Complimentary to your BOC cabin getaway and outdoor adventures is access to our excellent Adventure Staff---a team dedicated to helping you make the most of your time here in upper Buffalo River country. A waterfall hike? Assistance with choosing just the right cabin? A place to elk watch? How about a restaurant suggestion? No question is too small or too great for our Adventure Staff! Thank you for considering Buffalo Outdoor Center for your next Buffalo National River getaway. We truly look forward to helping you fall in love with Arkansas' prettiest place!

**Buffalo Outdoor Center is authorized within Buffalo National River to provide canoe rentals and transportations services.**

08/28/2026

Reminder for campers: Don’t forget that Buffalo National River will require reservations for all campsites at Kyles Landing and Erbie Campgrounds beginning September 1, 2026.

What’s changing starting September 1, 2026:

- Reservations must be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777.

- Cash and check payments will no longer be accepted.

Like spontaneity? Same-day reservations can be made if sites are available.

Meticulous planner? Individual campsites can be reserved up to six months in advance, and group sites at Erbie can be reserved up to one year in advance.

Important tips:

- These campgrounds do not have cell service, so it’s best to reserve before you arrive.

- Having a screenshot of your confirmation number, site number and reservation dates is also very helpful.

- Emergency phones onsite can connect you directly to Recreation.gov if needed. More information about camping options can be found here: https://www.nps.gov/buff/planyourvisit/camping.htm or by calling the Tyler Bend Visitor Center at 870-439-2502.

How to make the most of your weekend in Buffalo River Country! A Ponca weekend itinerary! ✨Day 1: Check in to your cozy ...
08/28/2026

How to make the most of your weekend in Buffalo River Country! A Ponca weekend itinerary! ✨

Day 1: Check in to your cozy cabin at Buffalo Outdoor Center and soak in the stunning views. Then hit the trails, cool off in a scenic swimming hole, or simply relax on your porch. After the sun sets, stargaze from your private deck and let the world melt away.

Day 2: Conquer the day with a sunrise hike, then fuel up at the BOC Deli. Afterward choose your adventure: soar through the trees on the Buffalo River Canopy Tour, shred the Ponca Downhill MTB Trail, or chill in a refreshing swimming hole. In the evening grill out and unwind at your cabin after a day of epic experiences.

Day 3: Make the most of your last day with one final adventure! Hike, swim, or explore before saying goodbye to paradise. With so much to do and see you might just find yourself planning your next visit or just staying another night or two!

Ready to escape the ordinary? Visit www.buffaloriver.com to book your getaway!

The dog days of August and early September may not seem like an ideal time to go smallmouth bass fishing on the Buffalo ...
08/25/2026

The dog days of August and early September may not seem like an ideal time to go smallmouth bass fishing on the Buffalo National River; however, these typically hot, languid summer weeks can offer the river’s best topwater action of the entire year! Make the most of an early morning or evening on the water, then retreat to the comfort of a Buffalo Outdoor Center cabin for a relaxing end to the day. Learn more at www.buffaloriver.com 🎣

Looking to soak in the last of summer in Buffalo River Country? Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation or a li...
08/19/2026

Looking to soak in the last of summer in Buffalo River Country? Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation or a little of both, we’ve rounded up 10 of our favorite ways to experience summer around Ponca on the BOC blog!

Check out the 10 best summer activities to enjoy in Buffalo River Country, including elk viewing, rock climbing, cave tours, and much more!

Do the dog days of summer have you dreaming of crisp fall temps and colorful foliage? 🍁 Start planning your unforgettabl...
08/18/2026

Do the dog days of summer have you dreaming of crisp fall temps and colorful foliage? 🍁 Start planning your unforgettable autumn getaway to Buffalo River Country today at www.buffaloriver.com 🦬

Address

4699 AR 43 HWY
Ponca, AR
72670

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 6pm
Saturday 8am - 6pm
Sunday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+18708615514

Website

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