Page 31 - OzarksMagazineFeb17

Floating the top travel attraction in Arkansas
By HaRRIson DaILY staFF
aRKansas — According to the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism, USA TODAY’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards named the Bu alo National River as the top travel attraction in Arkansas, an announce- ment that was no surprise to Arkan- sans who know the beauty and serenity of our country’s one and only national river rsthand.
ere are many activities along and on the river for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and experiences. ere are a wide variety of places to swim, sh, kayak, hike and camp.
While the Bu alo o ers almost unlimited opportunities for those hobbies, many people choose to experience the river up close by oating on its pristine waters. Float- ing o ers the opportunity to enjoy all the other activities, while viewing the unique scenes only the Ozarks can provide.
While on the Bu alo, oaters can view majestic blu s and peaceful pastures, quiet pools and soothing waterfalls. Floaters can stop to sh, enjoy a picnic lunch or swim in old-fashioned swimming hole.
ere are a variety of concessions near the river o ering watercra , guidebooks and a gathering place for oaters to meet and plan an excursion.
Floating the Bu alo National River be-
tween Tyler Bend and Gilbert is load-
ed with scenic Ozark beauty.
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ARK. DEPT. Of PARKS & TOuRISM
Bu alo National River o ers oating adventures for every skill level.
For information on making your rst oat one of many, visit bu aloriver.com or nps.gov/bu /planyourvisit/ oating. htm.
Typically, the oat season begins on the upper Bu alo in the spring. More water makes this section attractive for visitors seeking a higher level of challenge with whitewater kayaking.
e season moves downstream with the months, varying from month to month with rainfall. Unlike rivers that are fed by perennial springs, the Bu alo is largely rainfall dependent.
In dry years, the oating season is short and quickly moves down into the Middle and Lower Districts. In wet years use of the upper river is pro- longed with oating opportunities spread out through the park for the en- tire season.
ere are more than 20 access points along the Bu alo River. A wide array of places to get on and o the water means that you can plan a short two
Spring 2018 | Ozarks Magazine | 31