#bakerFord
Baker Ford to Tyler Bend on the Buffalo River
I once wrote that Tyler Bend to Gilbert on the Buffalo River is my top recommendation for beginner paddlers. I think it still is. But Baker Ford to Tyler Bend comes in a close second in that category. This short section of the Buffalo is a perfect lazy river float for a beginner to get a taste of Ozark paddling. With no dangerous rapids, the steady current carries floaters downriver without too much paddling required. All while experiencing the majestic bluffs and crystal-clear waters that keep us all coming back. The only thing that makes Tyler Bend to Gilbert a slightly better option for beginners is the ease of self-shuttling. The driving distance to the put-in is much shorter to Tyler Bend than Baker Ford. Aside from that, it’s about the same floating conditions and scenery. This...
Woolum to Baker Ford Float on the Buffalo
The Woolum to Baker Ford float is one of those Buffalo River sections that can easily get overlooked. It sits between several more talked-about stretches, yet it has plenty to offer in its own right. At around 11 miles, it makes for a nice, quiet day on the water with a good mix of scenery, long gravel bars, and a more peaceful feel than some of the busier sections of the river. If the water is there, it is a float that is well worth considering. This section can be a little hit or miss by mid-summer because the river level in this area can drop quickly. The Buffalo is known for going dry in places along this reach when water levels get low, so checking conditions before you go is important. The National Park Service notes that this stretch can even become a dry riverbed in spots during lo...
