A geology field trip by canoe on the Buffalo River of North Arkansas
We have asked a
guest writer, John D.
McFarland, of the
Ark. Geological Comm.
to give us his story
of floating the Buffalo River.
Later this summer, look for his article and photos
describing the geology
of the float trip.
Bauxite Mines
Chapter 8, Page 3
A Field Trip by Canoe
The Ozarks highest river bluffs, as tall as 440 feet, consist of sandstone, limestone, and dolomite. Towering over the Buffalo National River, these multi-colored cliffs have been sculpted over the centuries by erosion. Today they sharply accent the river and its surrounding wild mountain beauty. The park's geology, with its numerous caves, cliffs, sinkholes, waterfalls, springs, and interesting rock formations, typifies the Arkansas Ozarks.
Interpretive Programs
Naturalist programs at Buffalo Point, Tyler Bend, Pruitt, Ozark, and other locations in spring, summer, and fall include campfire programs, guided walks and hikes, guided canoe floats, and Ozark craft and folk music. Check with the park's visitor center and ranger stations for weekly schedules.
To Learn More
River guides, topographic maps, and books exploring the region's natural and cultural history are sold at the visitor center, ranger station and at park headquarters in Harrison.
Floating the Buffalo
Few experiences can compare to a float trip down the Buffalo. Clean waters, high bluffs, wooded hillsides, and a myriad of seasonal wildflowers conspire to turn staunch city lovers into nature enthusiasts. Inexperienced beginners can float slow-moving river sections and canoes may be rented nearby. Between Carver and Woolum, and downstream of Rush, the river offers a near-wilderness experience. Choices for length of float trips also abound. You can make half-day floats; a 10 day, 120-mile expedition, or anything in between.
The ghost town of Rush, once a thriving zinc mining community, now stands a silent reminder to the people and industry which existed in this valley of the Buffalo River. Unbelievably, the now abandoned town of Rush, was once the largest community in Marion County. Only a few traces seen on nearby nature trails remain as testimony of the mining activity from the late 1800's to the early 1900's.
Buffalo National River
National Park Service
US Department of the Interior
Superintendent, P.O. Box 1173. Harrison. AR 72602-1173
870-741-5443; TDD (870) 741-2884
Ch 8 Page 3
Contact the authors of Rockhounding Arkansas Revised July 1998
©Rockhounding Arkansas 1998 http://rockhoundingAR.com