Floating Information
The Buffalo River is the heartbeat of our park, and we want your journey on it to be as seamless as possible. We keep our rental process straightforward and outdoors-focused so you can spend your morning on the water, not in a lobby.
First-Come, First-Served
With operate exclusively on a walk-in basis for day trips. No reservations are required—just head to our park office registration window and we’ll get you geared up. We recommend hitting the river early, especially on busy holiday weekends.
Check-In & Registration
Upon arrival, please check in at the main office. One designated leader from your party will need to present a valid physical ID to process the rental agreement. Our team will then help you select the right craft and fit you for safety gear.
Operating Hours
Our rental office doors open at 8:00 AM daily. To ensure a safe float and return before sunset, the final shuttles for standard trips are scheduled to depart by 2:00 PM.
Paddles
Commercial grade paddles to make every stroke count while on the river.
Everything You Need
Life Jackets (PFDs)
U.S. Coast Guard-approved lifejackets are included with every rental for every passenger, ensuring a safe and worry-free float.
Shuttle Service
Our shuttle service eliminates the two-car juggle & provides seamless transport to launch points and/or back to your vehicle.
Trip Options & Pricing
The Gentle Float (8 Miles)
Average Float Time: ~4 Hours
A perfect introduction to the Buffalo River. This scenic 8-mile stretch offers calm waters and beautiful bluffs, ideal for families and first-time paddlers looking for a relaxed afternoon.
Canoe: $65
Kayak: $45
Personal: $30
The Scenic Route (10 Miles)
Average Float Time: ~6 Hours
Our most popular journey. This 10-mile excursion takes you deeper into the heart of the Buffalo, featuring stunning rock formations and plenty of spots to swim.
Canoe: $75
Kayak: $55
Personal: $40
Overnight Odyssey (16 Miles)
Average: 2 Days (~8 Hours Total)
For the true nature lover. Camp along the riverbank and experience the Buffalo in all its glory. Covers 16 miles over two days, with ample time to fish and explore.
Canoe: $130
Kayak: $90
Personal: $60
Your Gear & Safety
If you plan to launch your own personal canoe or kayak at Crazy Horse, you must also provide your own paddles and lifejackets. Every person on the river is required by Tennessee state law to have a wearable, Coast Guard-approved lifejacket readily accessible. Safety is our priority to ensure a worry-free day on the water.
Respect the River
The beauty of the Buffalo River is shared with local landowners. Much of the surrounding shoreline is private property. We ask all guests stay within designated public areas and avoid trespassing. We maintain a friendly but firm expectation of respect for the land—keep it clean, follow boundaries, and treat our neighbors with kindness.
Key River Rules
- Weekday 10‑mile trips must finish by 6:00 pm. Plan to arrive by about 11:00 am.
- After 6:00 pm: $10 per person, plus $10 per person for each extra hour.
- Canoes are limited to 2 adults. A 3rd rider must be a child 12 or under, $10 extra, and only allowed at our discretion.
- Average trip times are based on leisurely floating with about 1 hour of stopping. More stops mean a longer trip.
- Never go past the Blue Rock—make sure everyone in your group knows this rule.
Rules of the River
To ensure a safe and enjoyable journey on the Buffalo, we maintain clear guidelines that respect both our guests and the natural land.
Gear & Safety
If you plan to launch your personal canoe or kayak at Crazy Horse, please remember to bring your own paddles and lifejackets. Every person on the river is required by Tennessee state law to have a wearable, Coast Guard-approved lifejacket readily accessible. Safety is our priority to ensure a worry-free day on the water.
Respect the River
The beauty of the Buffalo River is shared with local landowners. Much of the surrounding shoreline is private property. We ask all guests stay within designated public areas and avoid trespassing. We maintain a friendly but firm expectation of respect for the land—keep it clean, follow boundaries, and treat our neighbors with kindness.
Key Rental Rules
- Weekday 10‑mile trips must finish by 6:00 pm. Plan to arrive by about 11:00 am.
- After 6:00 pm: $10 per person, plus $10 per person for each extra hour.
- Canoes are limited to 2 adults. A 3rd rider must be a child 12 or under ($10 extra).
- Average trip times are based on leisurely floating with ~1 hour of stopping.
- Never go past the Blue Rock—ensure your entire group knows this boundary.
CURRENT CONDITIONS • BUFFALO RIVER DATA • LIVE UPDATES • LOCAL WEATHER • WATER LEVELS •
River Conditions
The USGS Flatwoods, TN Buffalo River gauge is a helpful tool, but keep in mind the gauge is located about 10 miles downstream from our office, so local conditions may vary. The Buffalo River is completely free-flowing and unimpounded & spring fed. This allows the river to drop quickly after heavy rains while also maintaining a reliable flow even during drought conditions.
300 cfs & Below: Low/Droughty
Trips still run! Paddlers just need to watch for shallow spots, stay in the main channel, and you may have to occasionally step out to float the boat over shallows. Take the necessities, but don't weight your boat down with unnecessary items
600–800 cfs: The Sweet Spot
This is considered optimal floating for most paddlers, providing a natural flow that prevents you from having to paddle the entire trip.
900–1000+ cfs: Safety Judgment
At these levels, Crazy Horse uses judgment based on age, experience, and conditions. We may adjust trip availability to ensure everyone's safety.
If you have any questions or concerns, call Crazy Horse directly for a real-time, honest opinion from a team with over 30 years of experience on this stretch of river.