July 3, 2009 The Buffalo River is to low to float from Ponca. We are launching at Pruitt (hyw 7 bridge). The water there i...
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July 3, 2009 The Buffalo River is to low to float from Ponca. We are launching at Pruitt (hyw 7 bridge). The water there is summer time low, you will get out of the canoe a couple times. Wear shoes for wading and stop to swim more than once!

Weather Radar

Buffalo River Water Level / Ponca

We use airspace below the Ponca low water bridge as an indicator of water conditions between the Ponca and Pruitt accesses. (See photos at right for airspace examples.)

0" - 6" High water; experienced whitewater paddlers only.
7" - 10" Good canoeing; intermediate paddling skills helpful.
11" - 18" Good canoeing; some paddling skills helpful.
19" - 25" Moderate water; ideal for novice paddlers.
26" - 29" Low water, but still a nice float.
30"+ Too low to float from Ponca or Steel Creek.

This information is provided for general reference purposes only, and should not be taken as advice nor as a recommendation to launch regardless of skill. Whatever the conditions, always exercise good personal judgment and assess your paddling skills (and the skills of those in your party) before choosing to paddle any river. Have fun, but be safe first!

Don't want to camp? Treat yourself to a cozy Buffalo River cabin...

Buffalo National River canoeing info, including trip mileage, safety tips, and key park regulations.
American Canoe Association Paddling Safety Info
Zero Air Space
18'' Air Space
 
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