Grinder's Ferry: A Buffalo River Oasis
Escape to Grinder's Ferry on the Buffalo National River for swimming, camping, and scenic beauty in the heart of the Arkansas Ozarks.
Grinder's Ferry, nestled on the Buffalo National River near St. Joe, Arkansas, is a beloved spot for swimming, camping, and launching canoes. With easy access off Highway 65, it's a perfect place to cool off in the clear, cool waters of the Buffalo River and enjoy the natural beauty of the Ozarks.
A brief summary to Grinder's Ferry
- River, Arkansas, St Joe, AR, 72675, US
Local tips
- Arrive early during the summer months, as Grinder's Ferry can get crowded, especially on weekends.
- Bring water shoes to protect your feet while walking on the gravel bar and in the river.
- Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the natural beauty of the area.
- Check the Buffalo River water levels before your visit to ensure safe swimming and floating conditions.
Getting There
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Driving
Grinder's Ferry is easily accessible from US Highway 65. If you're coming from the north (St. Joe), travel south on US-65. The turnoff will be on your left immediately after crossing the Buffalo River bridge. If you're coming from the south (Marshall), head north on US-65; the turnoff will be on your right just before the bridge. The gravel bar is a short drive down from the highway. Be cautious driving on the gravel bar, as it can be soft and prone to flooding. Parking is free. Limited parking is available, especially during peak season.
Discover more about Grinder's Ferry
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Valentine-Williams House
5.8 km
Discover the Valentine-Williams House in Arkansas: A beautifully preserved historical landmark offering a glimpse into the past.
Richland Creek Wilderness
28.1 km
Discover pristine waterfalls and rugged beauty in Arkansas's Richland Creek Wilderness, a haven for adventurous hikers and nature lovers.
Round Top Mountain Trail
39.1 km
Explore scenic trails, discover fascinating rock formations, and reflect on history at Round Top Mountain near Jasper, Arkansas.
Pedestal Rocks Scenic Area
39.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and unique rock formations of Pedestal Rocks Scenic Area in the heart of Arkansas's Ozark National Forest.
Harrison, Arkansas National Historic District
42.6 km
Explore the Harrison, Arkansas National Historic District, where history and charm blend seamlessly in a beautifully preserved setting.
Buffalo National River Headquarters
42.7 km
Plan your Ozark adventure at the Buffalo National River Headquarters in Harrison, Arkansas. Explore America's first national river!
Shoe Sensation
45.0 km
Explore stylish footwear at Shoe Sensation in Harrison, Arkansas – your go-to shop for quality shoes, boots, and running gear.
The Ozarks Sign
49.6 km
Discover the Ozarks Sign, a charming historical landmark in Clinton, Arkansas, and capture the essence of this beautiful region.
Granny Henderson Cabin
51.8 km
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Calico Rock Historic District
56.0 km
Explore the historic charm of Calico Rock Historic District, where rich heritage meets scenic beauty in the heart of Arkansas.
Centerpoint Trailhead
56.1 km
Explore the breathtaking trails and stunning vistas of Centerpoint Trailhead in the Ozark National Forest, perfect for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Ozark Highlands Theater
57.7 km
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Stone County Museum
58.4 km
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Glory Hole Falls
61.2 km
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Norfork Lake
62.2 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Buffalo National River
0.9 km
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Tyler Bend Visitor Center
1.7 km
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Collier Homestead
2.1 km
Step back in time at the Collier Homestead, a preserved 1930s Ozark homestead in Buffalo National River, offering a glimpse into pioneer life.
Buffalo River Scenic Lookout
2.6 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Buffalo River Valley, perfect for nature lovers and photographers seeking a serene escape.
Saint Joe Historic Depot Museum
7.3 km
Explore railroad and local history at the beautifully restored Saint Joe Historic Depot Museum in the heart of the Arkansas Ozarks.
Buffalo River Historic Jail & Museum
13.2 km
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Indian Rockhouse Trail
19.1 km
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Richland Falls
28.2 km
Experience the natural beauty of Richland Falls, a wide and wonderful waterfall in the heart of Arkansas' Ozark Mountains.
Confluence of the White & Buffalo Rivers
35.0 km
Where the Buffalo meets the White: a scenic confluence in the Ozark Mountains, marking the end of a protected river's journey.
Zinc Swinging Bridge
36.7 km
Experience the charm of a historic swinging bridge in Zinc, Arkansas, offering scenic views and a unique connection to the town's resilient past.
Pedestal Rocks & Kings Bluff Trailhead
37.9 km
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Arkansas Grand Canyon
37.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Arkansas Grand Canyon, a stunning scenic spot perfect for outdoor adventures and tranquil escapes in the Ozark Mountains.
King's Bluff
38.4 km
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Big Creek Cave Falls
39.3 km
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Ozark Experience - Jasper, Buffalo River area
39.9 km
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Essential places to dine
Buffalo Point Cabins & Restaurant
19.5 km
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Cliff House Inn
37.8 km
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Low Gap Cafe
39.1 km
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Slim's BBQ
39.1 km
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Ozone Burger Barn
73.5 km
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Cattleman's Family Restaurant
73.7 km
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Arnie's Barn
76.9 km
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Osage Restaurant
77.0 km
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The Keeter Center-Dining
82.7 km
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Hungry Hunter Restaurant
83.1 km
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IHOP
83.5 km
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Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
83.5 km
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Cagle's Mill Restaurant
83.6 km
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Colton's Steak House & Grill
83.6 km
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Old South Restaurant
83.6 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Buffalo River Outfitters
2.0 km
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Fergusons Country Store & Restaurant, solid Cherry & Oak Furniture
2.4 km
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Elk Ridge Trading Co
2.6 km
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Buffalo Camping & Canoeing
2.6 km
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Gilbert General Store
2.6 km
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Big Springs Trading Company
5.1 km
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Back Door Boutique and Thrift Shop
11.1 km
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Zacbac Aparrel LLC
11.3 km
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Buffalo Valley Nutrition
12.0 km
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Roaming Buffalo Beauty Company
12.1 km
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Home Emporium
12.8 km
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Grove Street Gardens
13.5 km
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Dry Creek Homestead Merchantile
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Wild Bill's Outfitter
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Kaylee's Lil Shop
19.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Shine Eye Campground
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Tyler Bend Campground
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Craw Billy's Seafood Boil & BBQ
2.6 km
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Gilbert Gravel Bar
2.6 km
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Haskel's
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Boston Mountain Pizza
11.2 km
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Sonic Drive-In
11.5 km
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Daisy Queen
11.9 km
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Los Locos Mexican Restaurant Marshall Ar
12.5 km
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Marshall Restaurant
12.5 km
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Buffalo River Lodge
12.8 km
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Missouri Smoke, LLC
17.0 km
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Bridget's Bigmouth Burgers
30.8 km
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TallGrass Bar and Grill
40.8 km
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Gaston's White River Resort
43.6 km
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