Tyler Bend Visitor Center: Gateway to the Buffalo National River
Discover the Buffalo National River: History, nature, and adventure await at the Tyler Bend Visitor Center in the heart of the Ozarks.
The Tyler Bend Visitor Center serves as the primary information hub for the Buffalo National River, America's first national river. Located near St. Joe, Arkansas, it offers exhibits, a park film, and ranger assistance to help visitors explore the natural and cultural history of the Ozarks.
A brief summary to Tyler Bend Visitor Center
- 170 Ranger Rd, St Joe, Arkansas, 72675, US
- +1870-439-2502
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-4 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-4 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-4 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Check the visitor center's hours of operation, as they may vary depending on the season.
- Pick up a park map and trail guide to help plan your exploration of the Buffalo National River.
- Ask a park ranger for recommendations on hiking trails and river access points based on your interests and skill level.
- Visit the nearby Collier Homestead for a glimpse into early 20th-century Ozark farm life.
Getting There
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Driving
To reach the Tyler Bend Visitor Center by car, navigate to St. Joe, Arkansas. From St. Joe, head west on Highway 65 for approximately 4 miles. Look for signs directing you to the Buffalo National River and turn onto Ranger Road. Continue for about 1 mile to reach the Visitor Center at 170 Ranger Rd, St Joe, AR 72675. There is no entrance fee. Parking is available at the visitor center.
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Walking/Hiking
If you are already within the Buffalo National River area and enjoy hiking, you can reach Tyler Bend Visitor Center by following designated trails. Check trail maps at local ranger stations for the safest and most scenic routes. Hiking to the Visitor Center is free.
Discover more about Tyler Bend Visitor Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Valentine-Williams House
4.2 km
Discover the Valentine-Williams House in Arkansas: A beautifully preserved historical landmark offering a glimpse into the past.
Richland Creek Wilderness
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Discover pristine waterfalls and rugged beauty in Arkansas's Richland Creek Wilderness, a haven for adventurous hikers and nature lovers.
Round Top Mountain Trail
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Explore scenic trails, discover fascinating rock formations, and reflect on history at Round Top Mountain near Jasper, Arkansas.
Pedestal Rocks Scenic Area
38.4 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
41.2 km
Explore the Harrison, Arkansas National Historic District, where history and charm blend seamlessly in a beautifully preserved setting.
Buffalo National River Headquarters
41.3 km
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Shoe Sensation
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Explore stylish footwear at Shoe Sensation in Harrison, Arkansas – your go-to shop for quality shoes, boots, and running gear.
Granny Henderson Cabin
50.1 km
Explore the historical richness and natural beauty at Granny Henderson Cabin, a charming landmark in Compton, Arkansas.
The Ozarks Sign
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Centerpoint Trailhead
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Calico Rock Historic District
57.6 km
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Ozark Highlands Theater
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Glory Hole Falls
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Stone County Museum
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Explore the vibrant history and culture of Stone County at the Stone County Museum in Mountain View, Arkansas, a fascinating tourist attraction for all ages.
Buffalo National Wild & Scenic River
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Unmissable attractions to see
Buffalo National River
0.9 km
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Buffalo River Scenic Lookout
1.2 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Buffalo River Valley, perfect for nature lovers and photographers seeking a serene escape.
Collier Homestead
1.3 km
Step back in time at the Collier Homestead, a preserved 1930s Ozark homestead in Buffalo National River, offering a glimpse into pioneer life.
Grinder's Ferry
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Escape to Grinder's Ferry on the Buffalo National River for swimming, camping, and scenic beauty in the heart of the Arkansas Ozarks.
Saint Joe Historic Depot Museum
6.0 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
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Indian Rockhouse Trail
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Discover ancient shelters and natural wonders on this scenic 3.5-mile trail in Arkansas' Buffalo National River. A moderate hike with historical depth.
Richland Falls
27.2 km
Experience the natural beauty of Richland Falls, a wide and wonderful waterfall in the heart of Arkansas' Ozark Mountains.
Zinc Swinging Bridge
35.8 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.
Confluence of the White & Buffalo Rivers
36.2 km
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Arkansas Grand Canyon
36.2 km
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Pedestal Rocks & Kings Bluff Trailhead
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King's Bluff
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Big Creek Cave Falls
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Ozark Experience - Jasper, Buffalo River area
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Essential places to dine
Buffalo Point Cabins & Restaurant
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Experience authentic American dining amidst the serene beauty of Arkansas at Buffalo Point Cabins & Restaurant.
Cliff House Inn
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Low Gap Cafe
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Slim's BBQ
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Cattleman's Family Restaurant
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Ozone Burger Barn
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Arnie's Barn
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Osage Restaurant
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The Keeter Center-Dining
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Hungry Hunter Restaurant
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Rocco's To Go
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IHOP
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Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
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Cagle's Mill Restaurant
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White River Fish House
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fergusons Country Store & Restaurant, solid Cherry & Oak Furniture
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Experience the charm of Americana at Fergusons Country Store & Restaurant, where hearty breakfasts meet handcrafted furniture in St. Joe, Arkansas.
Elk Ridge Trading Co
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Buffalo River Outfitters
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Big Springs Trading Company
3.9 km
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Buffalo Camping & Canoeing
4.3 km
Experience the great outdoors at Buffalo Camping & Canoeing, your gateway to adventure in the heart of Arkansas, with camping, canoeing, and local flavors.
Gilbert General Store
4.3 km
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Home Emporium
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Back Door Boutique and Thrift Shop
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Zacbac Aparrel LLC
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Buffalo Valley Nutrition
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Dry Creek Homestead Merchantile
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Roaming Buffalo Beauty Company
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Grove Street Gardens
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Wild Bill's Outfitter
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Kaylee's Lil Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tyler Bend Campground
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Craw Billy's Seafood Boil & BBQ
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Shine Eye Campground
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Gilbert Gravel Bar
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Haskel's
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Boston Mountain Pizza
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Sonic Drive-In
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Daisy Queen
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Buffalo River Lodge
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Los Locos Mexican Restaurant Marshall Ar
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Marshall Restaurant
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Missouri Smoke, LLC
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Experience the authentic taste of BBQ at Missouri Smoke, LLC in Everton, AR - a true gem for meat lovers seeking smoky satisfaction.
Bridget's Bigmouth Burgers
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TallGrass Bar and Grill
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Experience the delightful flavors and inviting atmosphere at TallGrass Bar and Grill in Harrison, Arkansas—your culinary oasis in the Ozarks.
The Oasis - Harrison's #1 Bar and Grill
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Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Oasis, Harrison's top bar and grill, featuring delicious food, live music, and a lively nightlife scene.
