Buffalo National River experienced heavy rainfall between November 3 and 5, causing significant damage to campgrounds and roads in the park. Several inches of rain fell across the watershed, leading to disruptions in multiple areas.
Campgrounds in the Upper District, including Kyles Landing, Erbie, and Ozark, were affected by floodwaters during the early hours of November 5. Campsites in these locations sustained damage and are now covered in silt.
In response, park officials have suspended camping fees at these sites. Fees are expected to resume on March 14, 2025, coinciding with the start of the park’s regular camping fee season.
The Erbie Historic District and surrounding road system also suffered extensive damage. The Erbie-Compton Road, low water crossing at Erbie, and Cecil Creek crossing are “deeply rutted” and covered in silt deposits. Although these roads remain open, officials caution that they are only passable with high-clearance vehicles.
In the park’s Lower District, Spring Creek Road has been completely washed out and is currently closed at the park boundary.
“Facility assessments are being made…road repairs will be made as soon as possible. During this time, some areas will have limited facilities as work crews begin repairs,” the National Park Service (NPS) said in a press release.
According to its website, the park offers various campgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts. The Upper Buffalo Wilderness, located at the western end of Buffalo National River, offers five campgrounds, providing diverse options for visitors.
Steel Creek Campground, situated approximately three miles east of Ponca, on Highway 74, also features 26 tent sites and 14 horse sites. Each campsite includes amenities such as a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern hook. The campground operates year-round on a first-come, first-served basis, with reservations available for select sites during the peak season.
Similarly, Kyles Landing Campground, located between Ponca and Jasper, has 33 campsites. Accessible via a rough gravel road requiring a high-clearance vehicle, Kyles Landing offers basic amenities and operates year-round without reservations.
Erbie Campground, located seven miles off Highway 7 north of Jasper, also includes 14 drive-in sites and 13 walk-in sites, each equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern hook. The drive-in sites can accommodate tents or RVs but lack hookups or dump stations.
