Camp on Big Bluff
6 Miles
Chillin, Camping, Photography, Backpacking, Hiking
Beginner
Year Round
Out-and-Back
Spend the night under the stars on a 550' bluff above the gorgeous Buffalo National River.
This adventure begins at the Counterpoint Trailhead just north of Ponca, AR. Follow the trail downhill for about 2.7 miles until you reach a split in the trail. Take the trail off to the right and follow it for another .5 miles until you reach the Big Bluff area. There is a lot of area to explore along the edge of the bluff with several natural shelter areas. This area deserves your respect!
The Big Bluff, otherwise known as the Goat Trail, sits 550' above the Buffalo National River and the trail is only about 4 feet wide. If you follow the trail you will reach a couple of natural shelter areas that provide just enough room inside to place a tent or even sleep on the ground. If you stay the night, be very careful when moving along the ledge in the dark. The bluff faces to the west, so it is absolutely perfect for catching an amazing sunset. This is also one of the best star gazing spots around! Be sure to get a good nights rest because the hike out is a tough one!
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations.
Reviews
Overall rating:
Great camping trip
You do have to pack gear in and out, but this is a fantastic overnight trip. Natural shelter offers protection from the elements, and the view of the river and forest is fantastic from the bluff.
Amazing Hike, Camping Was Meh
This view is absolutely incredible; got a great panorama from the Bluff, and the hike was extremely easy. If you want to camp here and kayak on Buffalo, stay at Steel Canyon Camp (3 min drive from this trail). To start this hike, drive to Centerpoint Trail head parking, then go roughly 1.5mi and take a right at the sign for Goat Trail. If you haven't seen the sign just keep walking on center point until you do. Then it's a short hike to the Bluff! ***DO NOT HIKE DOWN TO THE RIVER FROM THE BLUFF, IT TAKES HOURS TO GET BACK TO STEEL CANYON CAMP***
Awesome scenery
This a great camping spot and fairly easy to get to. I'd recommend bringing a hammock over a tent. It gets fairly crowded in the afternoon but most people head down before the sun sets. If you are in the area you don't want to miss this
