Spanning just over seven miles, the Brushy Fork to Cottonwood Road section of the South Fork Little Red River offers a purposeful blend of moderate whitewater challenges and woodland scenery within the Gulf Mountain Wildlife Management Area. This segment moves steadily with a gradient of 22 feet per mile, presenting paddlers a series of pool and drop rapids that engage both novices stepping up their skills and intermediate paddlers seeking a scenic ride without overwhelming whitewater.

Starting at the put-in on National Forest Road 1342, which requires a 4WD vehicle for the rugged entry, or alternatively from the improved Forest Road 1307 (Slick Rock Road), adventurers immediately get a taste of the river’s character — a current that pushes forward while the natural flow gently guides you through ancient woods and rocky contours. The river here carries forces of nature that beckon careful respect, especially as it twists around Gulf Mountain’s ridges.

At around mile five, the river turns sharply left and presents Root Wad rapid. This feature tests river awareness: a large snag waits at the rapid’s base, challenging paddlers to keep control and spot hazards before they surprise. Its presence is a reminder that the river holds both invitation and caution, demanding readiness and quick decision-making.

The endpoint at the low-water bridge on Cottonwood Road offers a scenic exit but brings its own considerations. Large culverts beneath the bridge can pose dangers at higher water levels, potentially trapping unwary paddlers. This requires timing your trip carefully, favoring moderate flows to balance adventure and safety. For those planning longer excursions, this stretch is well positioned to link with the upper Middle Section of the river, although be mindful of access complexities around Low Gap Road.

Overall, this run provides a solid mix of landscape and whitewater dynamics without overwhelming technicality. The area’s forest and wildlife management protections help preserve the river’s natural vibe, making it a favored route for paddlers who appreciate a quiet but active passage through northeastern Arkansas’s wild spaces. Preparedness is key: sturdy footwear, reliable hydration, and careful scouting of rapid approaches will make your journey smooth.

Flow levels near 6 feet generally offer a runnable state, though below this, the river’s drops shorten and exposed obstacles increase, heightening difficulty. Around these waters, seasonality plays a role, with spring and early summer typically yielding the best conditions — fresher water and healthy currents, while late summer drought can reduce flow, making some stretches more technical and less forgiving.

To access these waters, local knowledge and vehicle readiness come into play. With improved roads to the put-in, the Brushy Fork section is more approachable than before, yet remains a venture that invites respect for changing terrain and natural shifts. Whether you’re building skills or just seeking a day of immersive whitewater paddling in a protected wildlife setting, this section delivers a candid, focused river experience with enough surprises to sharpen your focus and deepen your connection to the river’s pulse.