Tyler Bend: Great access point to enjoy jaunt into Ozarks
Outdoor writer and photographer Corbet Deary is featured regularly in The Sentinel-record. Today, Deary takes readers on a journey to Tyler Bend Campground.
Although I have spent my fair share of time kicking around in the Ozarks, I wasn’t introduced to Tyler Bend Campground until four years ago. I had driven alongside the road leading to the facility on numerous occasions.
In fact, I can recall noticing the large sign at the intersection and making a mental note to return to this particular spot several times throughout the years. But it seemed that I always had yet another destination in mind during these jaunts.
Well, I finally found myself with no preconceived notions of where I wanted to go. There was plenty of daylight left, and I was in no hurry to return home. That in mind, I finally turned from the highway and embarked upon a short drive to the facility.
I was certainly surprised upon seeing a large and impressive visitor center situated alongside the road, just before reaching the campgrounds. Of course, I chose to stop in and see what awaited inside. And I soon found myself pondering why it had taken me so long to visit this destination.
Noticing a trailhead near the entrance of the building, I opted to partake in a short jaunt along the designated route. To be honest, my intentions were to walk a section of the trail and be on my way. But it didn’t take long to figure out that this was a path that was well worth exploring.
The beaten path made its way through a wooded area and began an ascent along a ridgeback overlooking the Buffalo National River. The view of the scenic waterway winding through fields and forest lands lent to a beautiful scene. And I grew even more intrigued upon learning that the path would eventually lead me to a historical site where a family once depended upon the jagged substrate to survive.
The trail actually tied in with the Buffalo River Trail for a short distance prior to turning left. I suppose I could have remained on the main trail, named after the beautiful river below, and experienced many miles of incredible scenery. However, I still had the remainder of the facility to see. And In all honesty, I had no intentions of this pleasant trek into the forest turning into a marathon.
I was more than happy to veer left at the sign and follow the designated path to the Collier Homestead. And upon arriving at the old home place, I was more than satisfied with my decision.
The trail eventually made its way out of the wooded environment and entered a section of land that had obviously been cleared many years ago. The path continued alongside colonies of sun-loving native plants and eventually led us to within a stone’s throw of an old house surrounded by a weathered wooden fence.
Although obviously many years old, the structure had withstood the test of time. Of course, it had also benefited from the caring hands of the National Agency that maintains the property, as well.
The trail continued on, and actually crossed the road leading to the facility, where it tied in with yet another short trail winding through the park. But we chose to simply remain in the vicinity of the homestead and photograph the droves of butterflies that were gravitating to large colonies of wildflowers that were growing near the house, before simply backtracking to our rig.
With a pleasant walk behind us, we headed a little farther down the road to the camping and day-use area. This section of the facility was well maintained and equally as impressive as what we had already experienced.
There were 44 sites in all. I suppose the five group sites are much appreciated by those who are looking for a location where they can enjoy a gathering of friends and family. And I would suspect the day-use pavilion is a spot where a few family reunions have occurred throughout the warmer months.
But most of the activity appeared to be taking place at the sites that were designed for tent and RV camping. Each site was situated on level terrain and in a nice setting. However, it is important to suggest that one might do a little research prior to dragging their camper to the facility, as I am unsure if electricity is available at each site.
Those who are more into getting back to the very basics might be more interested in knowing that 10 walk-in sites are also available at the campground.
The main road leading through the campgrounds also
makes its way through a large field. And although I have yet to see a whitetail going about its everyday activities at this particular spot, I sure wouldn’t be surprised to see a deer bound into the nearby thickets in the future.
Speaking of native wildlife, I did happen upon an armadillo nosing around in the well-manicured grass for its next meal during our most recent visit. In fact, I secured my camera, got out of the rig, and actually crawled within a foot or so of the primitive-looking creature.
The road eventually makes its way through the large field and ends at a parking area near the restroom and several picnic tables. That being said, the location of these picnic tables lends to a scene far from the norm. That’s right, they are situated within sight of the beautiful Buffalo National River.
In fact, they are nestled along the shoreline of a fairly large hole of water. I have noticed people swimming at this location during previous visits, and rightfully so. However, this beautiful waterway lends to opportunities to experience several other outdoor activities, as well.
Anybody who has spent much time on the Buffalo is aware that sheer limestone bluffs are commonplace. And Tyler Bend is no different, as a beautiful bluff-line contains the water on the opposing side. That being said, the scene is incredibly impressive.
Well, how about fishing? I suppose one could coax a few fish into biting from this particular location. But one should bear in mind that Tyler Bend is also a great access point for those who prefer sliding a small craft into the water and striking out a little farther down the waterway. In fact, I am pretty sure that one of the local outfitters uses this location as a put-in or takeout spot.
Regardless of whether one fancies the thought of straying a little farther downstream, or if they are perfectly content with simply enjoying the scenery around them, Tyler Bend Campground is a location one might consider if they are interested in a jaunt into the Ozarks. I certainly have intentions of returning to this spot in the very near future. In fact, I plan to revisit the facility pretty much every time I’m in the vicinity and time will allow.
To get to Tyler Bend from Hot Springs, take Highway 5 north for about 25 miles and take a left onto Highway 9 at Crow. Remain on Highway 9 for 21 miles and turn left onto Highway 9/10 at Williams Junction. Go 59 miles and turn left onto Highway 65. Travel 42 miles and take a left onto County Road 241. Go 2.4 miles and the destination will be on the left.