Within Buffalo National River, Rush Campground serves as the final developed camping area before the river enters its designated wilderness section. Managed by the National Park Service, this primitive campground provides direct access to the Buffalo River with both drive-in and boat-in options available year-round.
The campground features 12 tent sites positioned along the riverbank, with a single vault toilet and water spigot serving all campers. Rangers patrol the area regularly and offer knowledge about local conditions and river access. Sites fill up during peak paddling season when canoeists and kayakers use the campground as a launch point for downstream trips.
River conditions vary seasonally, with low water levels occasionally limiting paddling options. Matt S. notes the area has "very few fast running water," making it suitable for beginning paddlers. Day use can become busy with water activity, though overnight hours tend to quiet down after 11 PM. Shade coverage varies by site, and cell service remains available throughout the campground.
Alcohol is permitted, and trash service is provided, though no pets are allowed. For additional primitive options, campers can explore tent camping near Buffalo National River. Plan to bring all camping supplies since no stores operate nearby.
Description
Rush Campground is a first come, first serve campground in the lower district of the park. Rush has 12 tent only sites with no electrical amenities and no flush restrooms. Drinking water is available when fees are collected March 15 - November 14. It is free to camp at Rush in the winter. All sites are limited to 6 people per site and each site is $16 per night. This is a pack in/pack out facility, trash collection is not available.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundRush Campground — Buffalo National River is located in Arkansas
Directions
From Yellville the turnoff to the Rush Campground is approximately 12 miles south on Highway 14. Turn onto County Road 6035 and follow the road approximately 4 miles to the Rush Town area. Past the Rush town about 1 mile the road forks. Bear to the right and the campground will be at the end of the road.
Coordinates
36.122747 N
92.550451 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 8 min from Springfield, MO
- 2 hrs 16 min from Little Rock, AR
- 2 hrs 22 min from Fayetteville, AR
- 3 hrs 3 min from Jonesboro, AR






