Ozark Pavilion
The Ozark Pavilion sits in the middle of the Ozark Campground near the impressive bluffs of the Buffalo River. Bring a picnic lunch or pack up your grill for a day of fresh air and outdoor activities.
The big river isn't just a picturesque backdrop for your picnic - it also offers an array of river sports like canoeing, kayaking, tubing, swimming and fishing.
The covered picnic area seats up to 100 people. Electricity is available but it's recommended you bring your own grill. Flush toilets and drinking water are provided.
Need to Know
Water and electricity will be turned off approximately November 15th to March 14th each year.
The facility is available for camping free of charge outside of the reservation season.
Climbing and/or diving from the bluffs is dangerous and highly discouraged.
Do not swim alone during high water.
All park trails are closed to pets with the exception of the Buffalo River Trail, only on the section of trail between Ponca and Steel Creek, the Villines Homestead Trail at Ponca, the Mill Creek Trail (trailhead is at the Pruitt river access area in the Upper District), the Tyler Bend Campground trails (Spring Hollow, Buck Ridge, and Rock Wall in the Middle District), and all three Buffalo Point Campground trails (Forest Trail, Overlook Trail, and Campground Trail in the Lower District). For more information visit the Pets page on the p ark website.
Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states.
Please be aware that some special events held at the pavilions or anywhere in the park (such as weddings, press receptions, concerts, et al) require a Special Use Permit in addition to the pavilion reservation. To obtain a Special Use Permit or additional information, please contact the Commercial Services office at (870) 365-2724.Visit the park's Special Park Uses web page for more information.
Natural Features
The pavilion is located along the Buffalo National River with views of lush forests and high, riverside limestone bluffs. It is one of the few free-flowing rivers remaining in the contiguous U.S., with 135 miles (217 km) of undammed waters. It cuts through the Arkansas Ozarks to reach its final destination at the White River.
Nearby Attractions
The nearby town of Jasper offers restaurants, gas stations and groceries. The Hilary Jones Wildlife Museum and Elk Center is just north of Jasper. It features displays of elk, white-tailed deer and ducks, as well as freshwater aquariums, wildlife paintings and a gift shop.
Recreation
The Buffalo River Trailhead is next to the pavilion. The scenic trail spans a massive 36.5 miles (59 km) of the Buffalo River from Boxely to Pruitt, and is ideal for hiking or backpacking.
Peak season for canoeing, kayaking and tubing is spring to early summer.
Changes & Cancellations
Please visit the Recreation.gov Rules and Reservation Policies page.
Contact Information
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Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 870-861-2570 (STEEL CREEK RANGER STATION)
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
From Harrison, head south on Highway 7 for approximately 13 miles (21 km). After driving across a bridge over the Buffalo River, look for a brown sign for the Ozark Campground. Turn right onto the gravel road and follow it for about one mile (1.6 km) to the campground and pavilion.
