Gilbert
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The Coolest Town in Arkansas, literally
Laid out along a bank of the rugged and free-flowing Buffalo National River in the Ozark Mountains, Gilbert offers front-row access to some of the most pristine wilderness in Arkansas.
Gilbert’s moniker as the “Coolest Town in Arkansas,” seen on a welcome sign as you head into town, comes from the town’s official weather station. Gilbert often records the state’s lowest temperatures historically. Its valley location along the river keeps it cooler than other parts of Arkansas, even in summer.
Founded by railroad builders, Gilbert now trades in solitude, scenery, and soul. The road into town ends at a gravel bar where the Buffalo National River opens up for paddlers, swimmers, and anglers.
The nation’s first national river, the Buffalo National River meanders through the Ozarks for 153 miles. This middle section of the Buffalo usually stays floatable year-round. Its long pools and gentle runs are perfect for families and inexperienced paddlers.
Buffalo Camping & Canoeing operates out of the Gilbert General Store, handling canoe, kayak, and raft rentals with shuttle service for day trips or multi-day floats. Gravel bars along the river are used for primitive camping if you want to spend several days on the water.
The Gilbert General Store has anchored this community since 1901. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places as Mays Store, it still operates today, selling supplies, fishing licenses, and souvenirs. Ben's Place, adjacent to the store, serves food and hosts live music during warmer months.
Cabins and guest houses sit within walking distance of the river, and Gilbert RV Campground has 30-amp hookups that handle larger rigs.
Gilbert is a great place to stay for stargazing and night photography. It’s Arkansas' first Dark Sky Lighting Compliant City within the Buffalo National River's International Dark Sky Park. The skies here rate a Bortle Scale 2, which is dark enough to see the Milky Way in detail without binoculars or special equipment. Tyler Bend Campground, a few miles away, hosts occasional star parties.
Places to Stay
Cabins, guesthouses, and camping facilities within walking distance of the river make Gilbert an ideal base for float trips or stargazing getaways.
Places to Eat
Ben's Place at the Gilbert General Store serves burgers, sandwiches, chicken tenders, nachos, fries, ice cream and more. Ten miles up the main road, Ferguson’s Country Store and Restaurant is known for its huge cinnamon rolls.
Things to Do
Whether you're here to paddle, fish, or simply sit and listen to the water, Gilbert gives you space to reconnect with nature. The nearby Tyler Bend Visitor Center provides exhibits on the region's natural and cultural history.
Get Outdoors
Floaters launch from here to drift between limestone bluffs. Anglers chase smallmouth bass. Swimmers splash in shallows and deep pools. Hikers follow the river east to explore a path that was once a railroad corridor. At night, stargazers and photographers look up to see the Milky Way stretch overhead in stunning detail.
State Parks
A short drive in any direction will lead you to one of Arkansas’ state parks. These places protect what’s wild and share what’s meaningful, from forested trails and lakeside views to frontier towns and Civil War sites. Every park offers a different way to connect.
Itineraries
Gilbert serves as a launching point for exploring one of America's most scenic river corridors. Plan your trip with curated ideas that connect floating, fishing, hiking, and stargazing across the Buffalo National River region.
Attractions
Choose your own adventure! Hunt or fish, shop for antiques, dig for diamonds, search for wildlife, peruse art - Arkansas attractions offer something for everyone.