Steel Creek Campground
federal · Jasper, AR
- fuel station1.3 mi

NPS · Data Source: Recreation.gov
About
Overview Steel Creek Campground is situated along the Buffalo River under the towering and picturesque Roark Bluff. One section of the campground offers 26 walk-in tent sites and another section of the campground offers 13 sites for those camping with horses. All sites are available by reservation only. Steel Creek is located about 3 miles (5 km) east of Ponca, just off Highway 74. Recreation Paddling conditions in the upper (westernmost) district of Buffalo National River are extremely dependent upon rainfall. On an average year, the upper river is only navigable by boat in the spring and early summer when consistent rainfall feeds into the watershed. Some sections on the upper end of the river are technical and should not be attempted by novices. 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 Steel Creek has 26 tent only sites and 13 sites for campers with horses/stock animals (six people and four stock animals allowed per site). All sites are available by reservations only. There are no electrical amenities or water hookups, but flush restrooms and water spigots are available from approximately March 15 through November 15 each year. 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. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (870) 439-2502. Nearby Attractions The Buffalo River Trail runs through Steel Creek and offers great day hiking or overnight backcountry opportunities. Boxley Valley is nearby and is home to Lost Valley, an easy to moderate trail that leads hikers past geologic and water formations. Visit the park's Hiking Trails web page for more information.. Charges & Cancellations rules and reservation policies
Around this stay
Nearest surrounding services and recreation within ~25 mi — not on-site amenities.
- 1.3 mi
fuel station
Buffalo Gas Station
- 18 mi
propane
AmeriGas
- 19 mi
grocery
Cash Saver 870
- 3.2 mi
potable water
Potable water
- 14 mi
trailhead
Glory Hole
- 2.3 mi
attraction
Hike the Lost Valley Trail
- 0.7 mi
recreation site
Boat launch
No dump station found within ~25 mi. Plan dump access before you arrive.
Contact & access
- 386 NC 2104 · Jasper, AR 72641
- 870-861-2570
Reservations & demand
October weekends are typically reserved about 86 days ahead.
Based on 49 Recreation.gov reservations (Oct 2023–Sep 2024). Historical demand — not live availability.
Source and verification
Last verified: 10/11/2026
See the Sources tab for provenance detail.