Permits

Filming Permits

A filming permit is required for commercial filming defined as any digital or film recording of a visual image or sound recording by a person, business, or other entity for a market audience, such as a documentary, television or feature film, advertisement, or similar project. Commercial still photographers require a permit if the photography involves the use of a model, set, or prop; requires entry into a closed area or access to the park outside of normal working hours.

Special Use Permits

Buffalo National River issues Special Use Permits for a variety of special uses ranging from weddings, use of facilities for an event, hayfield permits and many other requests.

Please contact (870) 741-5443 or write the park superintendent with your request, being as specific as possible, and a park employee will assist you.

Commercial Activities

If you are interested in conducting commercial activities within Buffalo National River please call the Concessions Office at (870) 741-5443 or write the park superintendent with complete details of your proposal. There are very specific requirements for commercial activities within units of the National Park System.

Horse Tips

Seven Useful Tips

1. Horses may not be tied directly to trees. A "high picket line" rigged outside of your camp area or hitch racks where provided prevents unneccessary damage to trees.

2. Traveling outside the established tread, to ride abreast or to avoid rocks or mud, breaks down the trail edge and widens the trail. It can also lead to the development of multiple trails.

3. Riders are responsible for removing or scattering horse manure from camp areas, trailheads, or loading areas.

4. Where available, camp in previously used sites on durable surfaces away from streams and trails.

5. Tie horses off the trail and away from wet or boggy areas. Rocky ground that catches a breeze will discourage insects and allow horses to stand quieter.

6. When you leave, there should be little or no evidence of your stay. "Pack it in, pack it out."

7. Recommended group size is no more than 10 horses.

There are no commercial horse outfitters operating at Buffalo National River.

Canoe & Johnboat Concessions

These businesses are permitted by the National Park Service to rent canoes and rafts and to provide shuttle services within Buffalo National River. Concessioners provide canoes, paddles, life jackets, mesh litter bags, and shuttles. For an additional fee, some outfitters will shuttle vehicles to a take-out point. We encourage you to contact our concessioners and shop for the services and rates you desire.

Concession operations are limited to specific districts of the river. Your choice of canoe and johnboat rentals depends largely upon which section of the river you desire to float or fish.

Upper river concessioners can provide services from Boxley to Carver. Middle river concessioners can provide services between Carver and South Maumee. Concessioners of the lower district serve visitors between North Maumee and Buffalo City.

If your float extends between two districts, you may select any outfitter within the two districts you will be floating. Any of the outfitters listed may provide services to all sections of the river if a four-day or longer trip in planned.

Motors are allowed on vessels upriver to Erbie Boat Launch. Outboard motors are limited to 10 horsepower. Johnboaters must yield to all other watercraft.