The Buffalo River - Longest Wild River in the United States

The Buffalo River is the longest wild river in the United States, which means there are no impediments on the river, such as damns, and is a tributary to the Duck River. It is used for canoeing and swimming, and is named for the buffalo fish which was plentiful when the area was originally settled.

It has been designated as a "State Scenic River" under the Tennessee Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. The river is rich in wildlife, including catfish and drum. You may even see an alligator snapping turtle which can weigh as much as 50 pounds or more.

The river rises in Lawrence County, and the north and south forks are crossed by Hwy 43 several times. Where the forks meet is considered the headwaters of the Buffalo River.

Crossing into Lewis County, it is crossed by the Natchez Trace Parkway.  There is a public access point located at 2581 Buffalo Road (Mouth of Grinders and Buffalo River). Then it meanders into Wayne County, where it receives several more tributaries, including the Green River.

Where it enters Perry County at Flatwods, the flow is mostly northward, paralleling Hwy 13, passing by Linden and Lobelville. When it passes into Humphreys County it passes under Interstate 40. The only incorporated towns on the Buffalo are Linden and Lobelville, both in Perry County, as well as unincorporated areas of Flatwoods and Beardstown, also in Perry County.

The Buffalo River, a natural attraction for weekend canoe and kayak enthusiasts, is one of the last rivers classified as "scenic" in the Southeast.  Rent a canoe or kayak at Buffalo Canoeing & Campground, 931-796-2211, for recreational floating or fishing.  Sports fishermen and women will find a variety of fish types including bass, bluegill, perch and more.  Canoeing, or "floating the Buffalo," is a perfect way to spend the day in Lewis County.  Public access on Natchez Trace Parkway milepost 382.8 at Metal Ford. 

Current Access Points and Future Plans for More in Lewis County

Lewis County’s Buffalo River Blueway can be enjoyed through approximately 5-mile floats between the following public access locations:

2022 Access Points:

• Metal Ford – Natchez Trace Parkway
• Mouth of Grinders Creek – Oak Grove

2023 Planned Access Point:

• Texas Bottom

2024 Planned Access Point:

• Riverside

Contact Debbie Landers at 931-796-4084 for more information.