re: Buffalo River Paddle Trip

That sound of aluminum hull hitting what sounds like pea gravel at the end of the trip had me ready to kiss some of the gear goodbye.

I live in Harrison and we finally have joined the real world and are now a wet county. We have just as many liquor and beer stores now as we do has stations, churches, and car lots! I have floated every mile of the river and it's pretty awesome. Kayaks are a game changer because me and wife would probably be divorced if we still had to canoe it!

If you’re looking for a place to camp close to Ponca, check out Lost Valley.

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was a lot of fun but I didn’t notice that part of the packing itenary was that we were told to bring a paddle :/

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Sounds like you were up shite creek without a paddle

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Steele Creek is a must, as it's on the river near Ponca

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I second this, love that area, plenty of hiking and waterfalls, along with the river. Steele Creek is one of my favorite areas on the Buffalo.

Mid to late June from Gilbert is usually fine. Minimal drag. Source: I do this trip annually about the same time of year.

April/early May is the best time for Upper Buffalo kayaking. That's the most spectacular part of the river as far as scenery and waterfalls. You'd need a lucky rain to do it in June. When that happens, locals will take a mid-week day off work to get at it.

it's really fun, we slept in Eno camping hammocks. We did the stretch from Ponca to Hasty.

There aren't a lot of real "rapids" on any section of the Buffalo. On the Ponca to Kyle's Landing stretch, there's a part towards the end that might get you, dunk you, but it isn't large, and it isn't "whitewater" type. Just rocky and shallow at spots. Think a mostly flat rock ledge that drops off a few feet. Kayaks are better for that reason. Any other part of the Buffalo I wouldn't hesitate to take kids. Lots of people will take their kids on the upper.

Another river that gets skipped, if you like smallies, is the King's River.

The scenery isn't as great as far as large rock formations, but the water can be absolutely crystal clear. You can stand on the bank and watch fish.

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If you have time, camp at Lost Valley one night.

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another good tip.

Also, be sure to ask people about Hemmed-in Hollow Falls. There's a place about 2/3 of the way between Ponca and Kyles where the river takes a right turn. You'll see canoes and kayaks stacked up there at the bank. That's where you get out for a 20 minute hike into Hemmed-in Hollow falls. It's breathtaking the first time you see it. Feels like you're in a South American jungle or Yosemite or something, 205 ft waterfall in a yellow limestone horseshoe canyon.

this seems prett badass...

on an overnight trip, what do you typically bring with you?

will they care if you bring a case of beer?