East Fork of the Little Buffalo is a tough stretch to paddle

Feeds:: Posts; Comments

« Stream-flow information for Arkansas Paddlers

East Fork of the Little Buffalo is a tough stretch to paddle

December 8, 2011 by buffalostevep

Thomas Creek flows into the Little Buffalo about 5 miles upstream from my home. From Thomas Creek (in good water ) it is a nice mostly Class II and III paddle to the low water bridge adjacent to my home; from the low water bridge down to Jasper and on down to the Buffalo River the float is a beautiful Class II to II+ ride with lots of willow jungles on the way. They make dangerous strainers in higher water. Above the Thomas creek entrance from the west side (know as Creek’s End – private property), this river flows through a deep canyon past Dismal Hollow on on down to the Low water Bridge just above Thomas Creek. Be EXTREMELY CAREFUL up there; make sure you go in a group, have the correct gear, and good rescue skills. The is little if any access to the stream.

excerpt from Riverfacts website; thanks.

The rivers for whitewater rafting and kayaking in this state are often easier than in other states, so you’d better keep in mind that many of the rivers in this state are not very demanding. The starting point is not too far from Harrison, there’s a road map further down the page with more info on that. The natural beauty of Arkansas and the sparkling of the sunlight on the water are in themselves reasons enough to come here to paddle. There

are plenty of other stretches in this river system that can be paddled as well. There aren’t any hotels right nearby but if you’re willing to drive a short distance then no problem but if you don’t have reservations you
might end up sleeping in your car. There’s camping available near Little Buffalo River – East Fork.

The Deer to Murray section of Little Buffalo River – East Fork in Arkansas is 7.3 miles long and is according to American Whitewater a class III-IV(V+) section of whitewater. This section is long enough to enjoy a good non stop paddle, it’s perfect for a one day trip. Since you’re on this site you are probably into whitewater rafting or kayaking, either way there are lots of good spots for that around here. Whitewater paddling here in the Boston Mountains is a great experience. Getting a good workout and just hanging out with mother nature are great attractions for lots of people.

Briefly about the general area:

Thomas Hollow is close to Little Buffalo River – East Fork and is certainly a good place to take a look at, and while you’re here you will meet lots of people from nearby Parthenon. Whohoo, so many cool things in one place! The Boston Mountains is unbeatable! There’s wonderful hiking along the Alum Cove National Recreation Trail, and don’t leave without visiting Ozark National Forest.