Buffalo River Swimming Holes

Summer in NW Arkansas brings a lot of hot weather, and a lot of dry days. The result is that many of the rivers are too low to float, many waterfalls are dried up, and many of the trails become a bit overgrown, tick infested, or it's just too hot to enjoy hiking.

The good news is there are always good options -- and swimming is one of them.

The Buffalo River has no shortage of great swimming holes that have plenty of water all year around. Most of the popular river access points have deep watering holes, even during the heat of summer. Ponca and Pruitt are VERY popular destinations because they are easy to get to off the highways and very scenic). Steele Creek, Hasty (a personal favorite) and Carver are all popular swimming destinations as well.

Pictured above is one of our favorite swiming holes. Some of you may recongize the spot -- but don't give it away! We love this little spot and it's just off the beaten path enough that we often get it all to ourselves -- and the water gets very deep out there very quickly (as it does at many of the swimming holes).  I invite everyone to find their own little special spot and enjoy a hot day with a nice swim in one NW Arkansas's many swimming holes.

As always, be responsible. Go in pairs or groups as there are no lifeguards on duty and always keep a lookout for snakes. If you're in flowing waters you'll usually be in good shape -- the more stagnate the water the more likely you are to see snakes -- or along rocky edges lining the water. Be safe (we've never had any problems, but it would be irresponsible of me not to warn you) and enjoy.

Comments

[Julie]

Hey there,

i'll be visiting the Buffalo River National Park this coming weekend, and i came across your website.

I'd love to experience your secret water hole, i promise i wont disclose the location, we live in florida so i can promise you we wont be back for a couple of years.

I'd really appreciate it, thanks!!

Julie

[I HOPE THEY OVERTAKE YOUR SPOT]

Kinda rude to not disclose the spot. No one owns it and for people that are new or visiting Arkansas, does it really matter if you disclose the spot?

[Brent]

Half the fun is finding your own little place to swim and enjoy a beautiful day on the Buffalo.