🏞️ River Swim
🟢 Easy Free Entry
🌊 About Steel Creek
One of the most iconic and scenic swimming spots on the Buffalo National River, set beneath the towering Roark Bluff; also a put-in for floating and access to the Buffalo River Trail.
📋 Visit Details
Water Temperature
💧 Cool river water
Best Season
📅 Late spring–summer
Water Type
River swimming hole below bluff (Buffalo River)
Managed By
National Park Service (Buffalo National River)
County
Newton County, Arkansas
🗺️ Getting There
Address / Access Point:
Steel Creek Campground, ~2 mi east of Ponca off Hwy 74
Access Notes:
Easy access from campground; deep, clear pools beneath towering Roark Bluff
✅ Before You Go — Checklist
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Check current water conditions — especially after recent rain
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Save GPS coordinates offline before leaving — cell service may be limited
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Pack reef-safe sunscreen, dry bag, water shoes and plenty of drinking water
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Tell someone where you are going before heading to a remote location
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Pack out everything you bring in — leave no trace