Tyler Bend Campground operates seasonally from mid-March through mid-November within Buffalo National River, offering 28 sites ranging from $20-50 per night. The National Park Service facility provides both reservable and first-come, first-served sites arranged across open terrain near the Buffalo River. Campers access the area via rough roads that can challenge larger RVs, with many sites too small for big rigs despite the campground's technical classification as big rig friendly.
The layout consists of sites spread across a field-like setting with pullouts and designated tent pads. A single bathhouse serves the car camping area and can get busy during peak times. "Water but no hookups," notes one reviewer, though drinking water and dump stations are available. The facility maintains clean restrooms and hot showers, though some visitors mention the fixtures could use updating.
River access draws many campers, with the Buffalo River providing fishing opportunities and swimming when temperatures allow. Highway 65 runs nearby, and truck traffic with engine braking can create noise, particularly in early morning hours. Cell service remains strong throughout the campground. Wildlife sightings include elk in the area.
For those seeking additional options, campers can explore places to camp around St. Joe or consider pet-friendly options around Buffalo National River since pets are welcome at Tyler Bend.
Description
Overview
Campers will delight in the picturesque river views at Tyler Bend. Located 11 miles (18 km) northwest of Marshall, Arkansas, Tyler Bend is set on a quiet, peaceful section of the great Buffalo National River. Known as the middle river region, the campground offers tranquil views of the river beside pastures.
Recreation
Small-mouth bass, catfish and sunfish are the most popular fish to catch on the Buffalo River, but visitors should be aware that an Arkansas fishing license is required to fish anywhere on the river. The middle river location also allows for extended seasons for kayaking and tubing. If there's enough rain, the sports can go through mid- to late summer. Get a dose of history by hiking to the Collier Homestead, a restored Ozark dwelling from the 1930's. The homestead remembers one of the homes built by settlers in response to the Homestead Act of 1862.For current paddling conditions, please check with an outfitter (visit our Guided Services web page ), call the Tyler Bend Visitor Center at 870-439-2502, or check the Buffalo National River Float Guide Dashboard
Facilities
The Tyler Bend Visitor Center is open year-round and has interesting exhibits on the history of flora and fauna in the Buffalo National River area. It's the primary visitor center for the region and provides several educational programs in the auditorium. The campground has 10 walk-in and 28 drive-in sites available, plus a day-use pavilion and five group sites.
Natural Features
The Buffalo National River flows free over swift running rapids and quiet pools for its 135-mile (217 km) length. One of the few remaining rivers in the lower 48 states without dams, the Buffalo cuts its way through massive limestone bluffs traveling eastward through the Arkansas Ozarks and into the White River.
Nearby Attractions
The Buffalo River Trail is accessible from the Collier trailhead parking area. This trail joins the Ozark Highlands Trail at Woolum, 14 miles (22.5 km) upstream from Tyler Bend.
Charges & Cancellations
Fee Info
Fees for the walk-in sites and drive-in sites (non-electric) are $20 a night for up to 6 people per site. Fees for the Group Tent Only Area (non-electric) are $50 a night for 10 to 25 people per group site.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundTyler Bend Campground — Buffalo National River is located in Arkansas
Directions
From Springfield, Missouri take U.S. Highway 65 south for 109 miles (175 km); then turn right at Ranger Road (follow signs) and drive another 2 miles (3.2 km) to visitor center and campground. From Little Rock, Arkansas take Interstate 40 West for 34 miles (55 km), then exit \"U.S. 65/Skyline Drive.\" From here continue on U.S. Highway 65 north for 74 miles (119 km) and turn left at Ranger Road (follow signs) to the visitor center and campground.
Address
TYLER BEND VISITOR CENTER
170 RANGER ROAD
St. joe, AR 72675
Coordinates
35.9866667 N
92.7638889 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/3/26
Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 4/3/26- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 4/3/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/3/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 4/3/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 4/3/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 44 min from Springfield, MO
- 1 hr 48 min from Little Rock, AR
- 1 hr 58 min from Fayetteville, AR
- 2 hrs 34 min from Fort Smith, AR
