A Local's Guide to the Buena Vista Whitewater Park & River Parks

The Arkansas River runs right through town

One of the best parts of living in Buena Vista is how close the river is. The Arkansas River runs along the east edge of town, and the riverside area near downtown has become a gathering spot for paddlers, anglers, families and dog walkers.

The Buena Vista Whitewater Park has built-in features for kayakers, rafters and surfers, plus beaches and banks where you can sit and watch the action.

When to go

Water levels peak with snowmelt in late spring and early summer, which is when the waves are biggest. Later in summer the river calms down, making it better for wading, tubing in calmer stretches and fly fishing.

Always check current flows and conditions before getting in — the Arkansas is a real mountain river.

Trails along the river

Riverside trails connect the river area with town and with longer trail networks on the east side of the river, so you can walk, run or ride without getting in a car.

Living near the river

Homes within walking or biking distance of the river and downtown are some of the most requested in Buena Vista. If river access is high on your list, tell us — we'll keep an eye out for properties that fit.