Amid ongoing drought conditions that have led to extreme fire risk, Buffalo National River has enacted a temporary fire ban, effective immediately. This precaution aims to mitigate the heightened risk of wildfires in the area, ensuring the safety of park visitors and the surrounding ecosystem.
The ban prohibits all wood-fueled fires within park boundaries, including in developed campgrounds and backcountry or wilderness areas. This restriction extends to campfires, charcoal grills, and devices like tiki torches, candles, and open-flame kerosene lanterns. These measures are crucial as the region grapples with particularly dry conditions, increasing the potential for fires to spread rapidly.
Visitors can still use camp stoves, lanterns, and free-standing gas grills in developed campgrounds and picnic areas. Solid fuel, propane, or liquid-fueled camp stoves and lanterns remain permitted in all areas of the park, allowing for essential cooking and light without the open flame risk.
Smoking is restricted to specific areas to minimize fire risks, including inside vehicles, on roadways, or in spots without combustible materials. Fireworks, as always, are strictly prohibited on National Park Service lands.
This fire ban will remain in place until conditions improve, prioritizing the protection of the park’s natural resources and visitor safety. Those seeking updates or further information are encouraged to contact the Tyler Bend Visitor Center at 870-439-2502 or the Buffalo Point Ranger Station at 870-449-4311.