Buffalo National River Levels: Float Trips on Hold Amid Low Water Levels
The Buffalo National River in Arkansas is currently experiencing very low water levels in several sections, according to the latest data from the USGS. As of August 5, 2026, at 8:42 AM, river gauges at Boxley, Ponca, and Pruitt report water levels of 1.2 ft, 3.0 ft, and 2.9 ft, respectively, with flow rates ranging from 5.02 cubic feet per second (CF/S) to 11.3 CF/S. The St. Joe section is classified as 'Low but Floatable' with a water level of 2.9 ft and a flow rate of 66.6 CF/S, while the Harriet section has 'Moderate, Ample Water for Floating' conditions at 3.3 ft and a flow rate of 103 CF/S. Due to these conditions, float trips on the Upper Buffalo River are currently suspended until sufficient rainfall raises water levels. The river's status is updated every five minutes based on USGS data. 
