Stretching 13.4 miles from Kyles to Pruitt, this approachable section of the Buffalo River offers paddlers a blend of gentle Class I and II whitewater that invites both beginners and seasoned river runners to engage with one of Arkansas's finest free-flowing rivers. Starting at Kyles, the river unfolds through a series of calm stretches interrupted by lively riffles that test your control and skill without demanding extreme expertise. The current nudges you along at a steady pace, averaging around two miles per hour, setting a rhythm that balances progress with plenty of time to absorb the surrounding wilderness.

The Buffalo River’s character here is shaped by a landscape carved from weathered bluffs, dense forests, and open bottomlands. The trees lining the banks seem to lean in, their leaves rustling softly, whispering encouragement as you navigate the shifting water. This reach is rich with sensory moments: the warm sunlight filtering through branches, the occasional splash from a paddle's sweep, and the cool spray from swirling eddies reminding you that the river is both companion and challenger.

Put in at Kyles Ramp, an easy-to-access launch point just outside Ponca, Arkansas, known for its straightforward gravel ramp and ample parking. The first stretch to Erbie Campground covers approximately 5.7 miles. It offers a mostly mellow current interrupted by short rapids that encourage confident maneuvering. Erbie Campground stands out as a comfortable halfway stop allowing paddlers to rest, refill water, or make camp under the canopy of hardwoods. From Erbie, another 5.4 miles brings you to Ozark Campground, a serene setting perfect for an overnight stay or a peaceful break along the river’s edge.

The final leg from Ozark to the Pruitt Take-Out spans 2.1 miles and marks a gentle culmination of the section. Experience the water’s subtle shift toward a calmer glide suitable for tired arms and reflective minds. Pruitt offers a convenient exit point with access roads leading back to nearby highways, making trip logistics smooth for day-trippers and multi-day travelers alike.

The Buffalo River’s flow is dictated largely by rainfall, which means the window for optimal paddling varies annually. The majority of paddlers flock here in spring when snowmelt and rains swell the river, adding complexity and excitement to otherwise mild rapids. Flows generally range between 500 and 1300 cubic feet per second on this section for safe but engaging runs. However, flows over 1300 CFS at the Ponca gauge signal elevated risk and deserve respect from more experienced paddlers.

Preparation is key: bring footwear suited for traversing rocky shorelines during breaks, pack enough water to stay hydrated under the Arkansas sun, and check the USGS Buffalo River gauges before launch. This river honors those who treat it with care and respect, changing frequently with weather and seasons. Being ready for shifting conditions, from unexpected fallen trees to swift currents pushing you forward, ensures a safer and more satisfying float.

With over 20 public access points along the entire Buffalo River, this stretch from Kyles to Pruitt is part of a broader network allowing paddlers to customize their journey—whether a quick adventure or a deliberate multi-day exploration. Each segment reveals the river’s varied moods, where nature’s forces engage with human determination in a dance that’s both exciting and purposeful. For reliable updates and assistance, the Tyler Bend Visitor Center is just a phone call away.

Embrace the straightforward challenges and flowing beauty of the Buffalo River’s Kyles to Pruitt section—a route that welcomes you to paddle steady, observe closely, and leave with a deeper appreciation of this protected river corridor’s lasting appeal.