Description
- The Buffalo Ranger District is the least populus of all the Ranger Districts, if it is described in the frequency of amenities available. It is however the most populus in Wilderness areas. With Fairview Campground and Richland Creek Campground as your only choices for basic creature comforts, you'll have plenty of time alone since the rest of the area is open to backpacking. Three wilderness areas, Upper Buffalo Wilderness, Hurricane Creek Wilderness and the Richland Creek Wilderness, are located inside the Buffalo District with the Ozark Highlands Trail that transverses the entire National Forest managing to spend a part of it's time here as well. The only other area that offer some sort of amenities is the picnic ground located at Alum Cove Natural Bridge.
Recreation - As usual, with National Forests, there are recreational opportunities that abound. Camping, fishing, Hiking and viewing scenic sites is only a small fraction of what is available. The Natural Bridge with it's accompanying trail is one of the highlights here. It is by far one of the most popular recreational opportunities available in this district, and is the only picnic area that is reported on Forest Service maps. Fishing, Camping, Hiking, swimming and many other activities can sprinkle your itinerary. Climate - The Ozark Region has four distinct seasons with a temperature range from 10-15 degrees below zero to over 100 degrees F. Winters have occasional cold periods of brief duration with daily temperatures near zero in January and February. Annual precipitation measures around 50 inches, but the range may vary considerably from this average. Snowfall occurs in the forest covering the ground from a few hours to occasional extended periods of up to several days. The area can offer snow-free outdoor recreation opportunities during the winter months. Be prepared however, for occasional cold weather during the winter, especially at the higher elevations of the Forests. Location -
Located in the northwestern portion of Arkansas,on the the northern edge of the Ozark National Forest lies the Buffalo Ranger District. Take Arkansas Hwy. 7 south from the town of Berryville about 40 miles. Before it enters the forest, you'll be crossing the Buffalo National Scenic River. From there turning east onto Arkansas Hwy. 16 takes you to the Alam Cove Natural Bridge. A bit further on, Arkansas Hwy. 21 becomes the Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway, a route not to be missed if you are trolling for scenery. One other route is the Arkansas Hwy. 123 which creates the southern border of the district. and travels through the campgrounds of Haw Creek Falls, Fairview, and is next to Hurricane Creek Wilderness. The Ranger District Office is located at the southern edge of the Henry Koen Experimental Forest on Hwy. 7. About 8 miles north of Alum Cove Natural Bridge
|
Add your own trip Report!