Flood waters damage Buffalo National River facilities

Many roads and facilities within Buffalo National River were damaged in the heavy rains that the area experienced earlier this week. Several inches of rain fell across the watershed between November 3rd and 5th.
Some campgrounds in the park’s Upper District were impacted by flood waters in the early morning hours of November 5th. Several camp sites at Kyles Landing, Erbie, and Ozark Campgrounds were damaged and are silt covered. As a result, fees are now suspended in these three campgrounds. Campground fees will be collected again starting on March 14, 2025, which is the start of the normal camping fee season within the park.

The road system in the Erbie Historic District and surrounding area sustained significant damage. The Erbie-Compton Road, low water crossing at Erbie, and Cecil Creek crossing are covered in silt and deeply rutted in places. The roads all remain open, but are only passable with a 4x4, high clearance vehicle. The road to Spring Creek, in the park’s Lower District, has been washed out and is currently closed at the park boundary. Facility assessments are being made this week and road repairs will be made as soon as possible. During this time, some areas will have limited facilities as work crews begin repairs.
For further questions or updates, please call the Tyler Bend Visitor Center at 870-439-2502 or the Buffalo Point Ranger Station at 870-449-4311.