I'm so happy that I came across a Facebook post where someone recommended BRO. We are not experienced kayakers and you should keep that in mind as you read this because that is the perspective from which I write. The person who took my reservation on the phone was fantastic. When we got to their main location, the girls who helped get us ready were outstanding. There was one person in particular, who was so incredibly helpful and put us at ease. When you finish up your registration you can use the restrooms at their store and there's plenty of merchandise that you can buy, both things that are helpful (think sunscreen, dry bags, snacks), and things that are fun, like postcards and stickers. We paid for a tandem kayak and for a valet service, which was very helpful and made it so that we had to drive to the put in place and then only had to pick up our car when we got to the end of our time. I didn't realize that the drive to the place where we would pick up the kayak and start our float (about 18 mins from the store) was over about 2 miles of a VERY bumpy, dusty, rocky road. Somebody might have mentioned it or it was in the literature, but I just missed it and was slightly worried because we just had a 2 wheel drive rental, and it was rough riding to get there so keep that in mind. When we arrived there was a pit toilet which was helpful and the guys helping with the boats were good (You might want to have some cash to give you a tip although I don't think that's expected but our guy was extra helpful.) Also I want to mention that I am plus-sized and had no problems with the kayak at all. We had an incredible time and it took us about three hours altogether including one stop along the way of about 20 minutes where we ate a snack (made sure to clean all of our trash up), swam for a while and went on our way. We went on a Tuesday at 11am and thought it was slightly crowded, it never felt overwhelming, and we were able to slow down or speed up whenever we felt that we were too close to another group. I also thought that people were respectful when they had speakers and it was never loud or obnoxious. Two things I didn't know before that I hope can help someone else. The first is that there were a couple of times when we went over fast moving water (I can't even really call it rapids, but definitely moving quickly) where we got stuck on the rocks and almost turned over. Not a huge deal and almost entirely due to our lack of experience, but just keep that in mind it's not 100% floating peacefully the entire time. Once we had that experience on the first couple times we were completely fine for the rest. The other thing is that just past the place where you pull in and drop off your kayak is a super fun area where you can paddle into a cave, jump from the rocks, and just kind of hang out. If we would've known that it was there we would've stayed around a bit longer. Again, nobody's fault Just something we didn't know beforehand. I highly recommend Buffalo River outfitters - we had a blast! read more

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Overpriced, need reservation for a shuttle? and easily sold out. I don't get why you need a reservation for a shuttle and why it's so expensive from Gilbert to tylers bend. It's a 15 minute drive for goodness sakes. Also how do you sell out for needing a shuttle ? read more

This place is gonna give you the best experience and prices on the buffalo river with a staff well educated in the area.

Good customer service, easy checkin and checkouts. I can't give this place higher rating because our experience did not meet our expectations. Having never been to the river before we asked the representative at time of reservation what we should expect on the river. She said if we didn't do any work, it would take about 6hrs to make it to our destination. We did just that and pulled over a couple spots for some swimming but yet arrived in less than 3hrs. The water condition was the same as it was when she told me this. We could've pulled over and enjoyed ourselves a bit more if we had a better approximation. We hung out a bit more at the final destination to get some more river time in but ultimately we felt that our time was cut short. They also transferred our car for us which was about $35. The drive was like 5min away. Overall I suppose this was ok. I would likely try out other businesses though in the future. read more

Another couple days of water time and BRO did not disappoint. Had to change reservations a couple of times and they were always friendly and service oriented, taking great care of us. Thanks again!!!! read more

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Great company you do have to drive about five minutes down for the drop off point but for us it was about a two hour kayak some people we passed stop for lunches but we went straight through it it was a good experience nice sites and views would've been nice if there was a little bit more water though. read more

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We used BRO to rent two kayaks for a trip down the river. They were very helpful and were able to answer all my questions so we could plan our trip well. We also used their personal shuttle service, the only shuttle service that is available due to COVID, and it worked great! They had our car at the take-out place and we left our gear and drive off, no hassle at all! They also provide a mesh trash bag with each canoe so you don't have to bring your own (no excuses to litter! Pick up your trash people!). Our experience was great and our trip was smooth thanks to BRO! If we come back we would use this outfitter again. read more

Buffalo River Outfitters - Tyler's bend where they meet you with the gear - Tours Near Me - Saint Joe, Arkansas

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I've only used BRO once and I rented two canoes and had a very good experience. They were fast to get us to the river and pick us up. The canoes were in good shape and clean and the staff was friendly. In addition, they have some pretty good deals on BRO gear (shirts, rain gear, etc ...) in the clubhouse too. read more

Buffalo River Outfitters - Tours Near Me - Saint Joe, Arkansas

We used this outfitter to do a day canoe trip with our kiddos in the summer of 2021. After arriving, you have to drive your vehicle to the drop in point, and then they move your vehicle for you to the end of the river float for pick up. When we finished our trip and returned to our SUV, we noticed it was completely scratched up along the entire vehicle. We immediately notified the guys who were loading the canoes of the damage, who came and looked at it. They apologized but said the road to get down there was very narrow and sometimes that happens. This was unacceptable to us so we drove back to the main office where the front desk girl looked at it as well, and said she would share my information with the manager who would reach out to me asap to discuss compensation. Here we are a year later, and we still have not been contacted or compensated. I did get ahold of one of the managers at some point, Paul, who said he would gladly reimburse us for the $500 deductible we had to pay out of pocket to have it repaired. Unfortunately, he never followed through on that. Over the last year, I have made over 12 calls to them and have been continually ignored, brushed off, and dismissed. Last week I received a voicemail from the owner Ben, who said they were not going to accept responsibility for the damages. As a business owner myself, I understand that sometimes things happen outside our control. However, ethically, you should always strive to do the right thing for your customers and it was highly disappointing that Ben/Buffalo River Outfitters chose not to do so. For this reason, we absolutely would not use them again and would caution anyone about letting them touch your vehicle. read more

Not sure if the Covid thing or not but beware!! They require a 24 hour notice, we booked the 10 mile float, when we arrived at 8:15am the next day, the check in girl said due to them being short staffed, they were only doing the 6 mile, but it would take us 6 to 7 hours to float. We were disappointed, but when Jaden the manager reassured us it would take all afternoon and it was beautiful we agreed. We paid an additional $35 to have our car shuttled. After forgetting to purchase ice we had to return to the store and then head back to the pavilion and park. We got our canoe a little after 9 am and headed down river. We had packed our lunch and stopped at several sand bars. Before we had an opportunity to eat our lunch we were at the take out spot!!! There was another couple there and they were also very disappointed in the misrepresented length of the float. We spoke with the young man, he provided the office #, we called no answer, he gave us Jadens # we called and she was no help, she had the owner call is and he didnt offer any resolution. We asked if we could, be taken to the beginning and float it again. We paid $63 per canoe + $35 for car shuttle, we had a 3 1/2 hour float, stopping at several sand bars and it ended prior to eating our lunch. What a rip off!!! Our car was parked a half mile up the hill, they did go get it and bring it down. The employees voiced their dissatisfaction with ownership and said they wish they had other employment. Ben the owner and Jaden the manager totally misrepresented the expectations and are unethical people. They are taking advantage of good folks and dont understand customer service! We will never spend another penny with Buffalo River Outfitters, I wish Silver Hill Outfitters were open on a Monday we originally were told to go there, what a bummer. The river was beautiful and the water was amazing, such a drag to be lied to and told tough, by such unethical owners and managers. A rebuttal to the comments below by Tracy O. ( Who appears to be Ben, who claimed he was the owner of Buffalo river outfitters on the phone, when we spoke after our 3 1/2 hour float). Your comments to my review are incredible. I do not work in food service, not sure what you are trying to imply, but if it was to belittle, not a good choice as they continue to be essential and some of our most trusted during this pandemic. I also drive a Ford Escape SUV, not a sedan. My first call was made at 12:42 pm after our float was completed and after a lengthy conversation with the multiple staff at take out. I do agree that it was quoted as a 6 mile float, not six hour. Although we requested the 10 mile at the time of booking and were told that we would be on that float unless water levels change. Nothing changed with water levels, the first associate said we were switched to the shorter float due to being understaffed, then Jaden said it was due to road conditions, it was never an option for us to have the 10 mile float, anyway she said that the 6 mile float would take us approximately 6 to 7 hours. We did stop several times, at least 4 times and swam and skipped rocks and took our time, and enjoyed the beautiful scenery with very little paddling. Our car was not visible from the river, your staff said it might be up the hill. Your guy went up to check and came back with the car. Not sure where you are measuring from for your 200 yards. I am certainly happy we didnt have to carry all of our stuff up and over the gravel bar and up that hill on the road, we saw other folks struggling. So thank you for getting our SUV, what a blessing. Your disrespectful and outrageous comments to my review only proves the lack of customer service required by your organization. You dont have to worry about us returning, good luck, I hope you change the expectations you provide future customers. read more

Was such an amazing place to rent from and get out for a float on the Buffalo River. They guy who took us to and from was Garret and he was so nice and helpful! I would definitely use them again! I rented a kayak for a friend and brought my own. It was an easy process. Hannah helped me find the right put in for the friend who came with had never kayaked before. This was my first time floating this river but I want to come back soon! read more

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The water level was low so we had to paddle a lot which was fine. I'm sure it's nearly impossible to predict float times when water level changes every week. Very friendly staff on a very busy 4th of July weekend. read more

They do not know the river. They did not warn us of the Clabber Creek Shoals where we flipped our canoe. Had to cut our trip short. Everyone we talked to could not believe they did not warn us of the dangerous area. One person died going through the area 2 weeks before our trip. BRO is off our list forever. I do not trust them at all! read more

We booked a canoe and shuttle for a 10 mile float from Baker's Ford to Gilbert. Everyone was helpful, the equipment was in great shape and we had a wonderful trip. River was running about 1100 CFS so, we stopped a few times to swim and take in the sights. I'd book here again. read more

The most beautiful river I've ever floated/canoed and the absolute BEST canoe rental experience/ cabin rental of my life. Staff are friendly, reliable, and knowledgeable. Canoes are in fantastic condition and the shuttle service offers lots of different options. With their all-around quality of service they could afford to jack up their prices, but everything is very reasonable. The cabins across the street from the main office are GORGEOUS. It was like being in a freakin romance novel or as my companion described it "a lincoln-log pimp suite". I especially loved the in-room jacuzzi, clean high quality cookware and the fancy shampoo. There are no ugly orange lights anywhere, we could turn the lights off and look at moonlight through the forest from the ridiculously cute porch swing. Worth driving any distance for. Seriously folks, if you're visiting the Buffalo River and choose any other river outfitter or lodging option, you're being a dumbass. read more

Rented tubes (3 doubles, 1 single, 1 cooler tube) for 4 adults and 3 young kids. The river was to low for a raft. The BRO staff were very nice and quick to shuttle us to the launch area. We launched at Tyler Bend and got out just past the Hwy 65 bridge. Unfortunately, the area is experiencing a drought so I would call ahead to confirm the river level. The river stage was at low. We had to work to complete our 1.4 mile trip. When the water was deep enough to float there was very little current to move us along and when the current was fast enough the water was too shallow to float. So we were either paddling or walking most of the time. read more

They were super nice in helping us and they let my dog come without any complaints which was awesome of them!

Had a great time and very professional! Workers were nice and personal, and price was reaosnabke

Staff was very knowledgeable and helpful! Hope to go again and would definitely recommend BRO to friends!

I just returned from a weekend trip have to say I'm sadly disappointed in this company's customer service. They're products they provided were just fine, it was just the personnel and service itself that fell quite short of expectation. We planned on a 2 day trip and at check-in they required us to choose a pick up time for the shuttle service. This makes sense and we chose 2pm but they also noted that if we were to arrive early to just message them and they'd send someone over. We arrived at our pick up location at 1:50, so we called to just confirm we had arrived and they said someone would be there shortly but it wasn't for nearly another 2 HOURS that they showed up. We had called several times during that wait ( and it happened to be during extreme weather; lightning, flood warning ) and the woman at the desk gave no explanation, and just kept saying they would be there shortly. The driver didn't offer and explanation either. We paid $70 dollars for this. Back at the storefront, we tried discussing this experience with the front desk clerk who then tried to bring a manager into the discussion. The manager would exit her office for just a brief moment to provide an answer with a bare minimum explanation, even when it was obvious her employee was trying to get more assistance from her too. This manager was rude, unwilling to discuss our experience, and basically walked away from the situation. We will not be using Buffalo River Outfitters again. **Side note, prior to getting on the river, we stopped at Silver Hill Grocery to pick up a few last minute supplies where the owner was very kind, and his prices were much more competitive. They could not offer a shuttle service, but did have trailers you get with rental of four canoes. He even gave us tips about sites along the river. http://silverhillgrocery.com/ read more

Absolutely wonderful people and great customer service. This became obvious when we encountered an emergency during our canoe trip. Our dog had come with us and when our canoe tipped over, she swam to the shore. Due to the current and depth of the river that day, I wasn't able to make it back to her. So we called back to BRO and worked with them to be picked up at a point earlier than planned. Then the went into action, letting all of their employees know to look for her and calling other outfitters in case someone else found her. They went out in the river with boats on two occasions looking for her, for a total of about 3-4 hours. Happy ending to the story is she was found and returned safely to us--thanks to the hard work of the BRO staff--Thanks BRO!! read more

Rented raft for family of four - 2 adults & 2 small kids. BRO made everything easy thru reserving, checking in, drop off & pick up. They provide life jackets & paddles. Restrooms are inside the store. Raft was super easy with the kids, & BRO knew just how long a float we needed to do based on the kids and current water level. Also offer guided trips, turkey hunting, horseback riding, etc. Store has t-shirts & souvenirs. Easy drive from Little Rock. read more

On a VERY BUSY holiday weekend (Memorial Day) these folks were quick and easy to do business with. We did a Shuttle on Saturday and Sunday. Just walked in, no reservations or nothing, and they handled everything no problem. They delivered our car to our take out each day from our put in for a very reasonable price, and all the prices are easily found on their very informative website. Will use them again! read more

I've never written a review before and it's a shame my first one is a bad one. I should state that I got what I wanted in the end but it wasn't without a fight. First off, buyer beware. Before renting a kayak or a canoe, realize their cancelation policy isn't in favor of the consumer. I had to cancel due to bad weather. After trying to get a refund on two different occasions and eventually speaking with a manager, I received a refund. Just know that if you pay for/reserve your rental in advance and the weather prevents you from floating, this business will do whatever they can to keep your money. I'm giving this place a two star rating. One star for giving me my money back and one star for being greedy and rude. I'd suggest having a friendlier, staff and a more lenient refund policy. read more

People at the counter were trying to be helpful, but were not knowledgeable and the manager was not available. We called back and made a change to our car drop-off location and the message was not relayed, so we were stranded. We were not offered even an apology, so paid to be stranded. read more

We had a great time (even floating in sleet). Our driver Garret was the bomb, very friendly and helpful.

Don't go here. My friends and I took our sons up from Austin, TX. I called days ahead to get advice on the right float for us since we didn't know the area (we wanted 6-8 hour float). The initial person I spoke with was helpful and we reserved that particular trip and paid. On the day of the float, we checked in and were told to wait outside for our shuttle with 3 canoes. The shuttle driver pulled up and we all heard him say "Hardin." One of our party asked "Hardin?" to verify, and the driver said yes. We were on our way! We floated for only about 2 1/2 hours when we reached our exit stop. We pulled out and the BRO shuttle driver told us that there was some confusion and that we were dropped off at the wrong place. Turns out we were on a shuttle meant for Martin, not Hardin. We heard Hardin when the driver said Martin, he heard Martin when we said Hardin. No big deal at all, we thought. Mistakes happen. Surely they'd work with us where we'd all be happy. Nope. Not at all! I spoke with the manager (Felicia?) and it was clear right off the bat she was not going to work with us at all. We didn't ask for any money back, we just asked for the same shorter float the next day (which wasn't very busy). Instead, I was told it was 100% our fault for getting on the wrong shuttle. She even implied I should feel bad for their other customers. Ha! We were astonished. I've traveled to multiple countries and all over the U.S. on business and pleasure and I can honestly say I've never seen a poorer response from a customer service business to an otherwise run of the mill mistake. Go to Silver Hill Outfitters right next door instead. They are awesome! read more

We rented 5 canoes from them in April. The person in the office gave us our rate (including transportation fee). We had 4 children traveling with us and I asked 3 times if the amount she quoted included the 4 children. She empathatically said the amount did include them. When we arrived to pick up our canoes they claimed they couldn't find our reservation and would have to "redo" it. But when I gave them the credit card number that I used to make the reservation they found our reservation. We were told the woman didn't charge us enough for the 4 children, but they would honor what we were quoted. The following week I looked at my credit card statement and they had charged us $24.00 more than they were supposed to and they will not respond to my inquiries. It's a matter of integrity. I wouldn't rent from them unless you don't mind getting ripped off. read more

Stop here!!! Want to say "thank you" to the sweet lady who took her time telling my family and I about the area and provided a very detailed map of the local waterfalls and how to get there. It was super helpful! The store is a tad pricey but has better stuff than your usual store. Cool souvenirs! They have tons on t-shirts, hiking and camping gear, adult and kids water shoes (side note- I had NO idea they even made water shoes that are not dorky!), ect. They have a great selection of quality snacks, drinks, and a little deli with great sandwiches made with HOMEMADE bread. You can rent canoes and cabins as well. We will definitely be back to this area and visit this store again. Awesome store! Great customer service! Y'all keep it up! read more