Buffalo National River Adventure

Join LGBTQ Outdoors for an unforgettable five-day adventure at Buffalo National River and Hot Springs National Park, where rolling hills, sparkling waters, and lush forests create a stunning backdrop for exploration.

This trip is for all of us, and we welcome the whole LGBTQ+ community. No matter your age, your gender, or your story – there’s a place for you here. Over five days, you’ll hike scenic trails, paddle the river, ride horses, soak in natural hot springs, and enjoy evening campfires with fellow adventurers. An optional rafting day and sunrise hike offer even more ways to connect with nature.

Evenings will include group dinners, reflection around the campfire, and plenty of time to relax and connect with the community. Schedules and activities may change due to weather, but every day will bring adventure, beauty, and connection. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of the Buffalo River region while making lasting memories with our incredible community!

Start Date:

End Date:

Cost:

$740 (Payment Plan Available)

Location:

Hot Springs National Park & Buffalo National River; Arkansas

Key Activities:

  • Hiking

  • Kayaking

  • Canoeing

Lodging:

Tent Camping

Difficulty Level:

2.5 out of 5

Sign Up Here

Step 1 - Sign Up

Step 2 - Receive Welcome Email

Step 3 - Pay in Full or the $250 Deposit via link in Welcome Email

Trip Leaders

Mallorie Hall

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Mallorie Hall has been with LGBTQ Outdoors for five years, and co-leading this trip is a natural extension of her passion for community and connection. She thrives on bringing people together, creating inclusive spaces, and helping others feel comfortable exploring the outdoors.

A lifelong nature lover, one of Mallorie’s most memorable adventures was packrafting in Alaska, an experience that deepened her appreciation for wild places and shared journeys. She is excited to share her enthusiasm for the outdoors while helping participants build friendships and lasting memories along the way.

Email: mallorie@lgbtqoutdoors.com

Mallorie Hall

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Oded Wilson

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Oded Wilson specializes in group building through camping experiences. As an outdoor experiential leader, he has led numerous camping trips throughout his career. Oded’s greatest passion is fostering connections between people and creating tailored experiences for each participant on his trips.

He focuses on teaching valuable social skills, cooking together, and facilitating deep, meaningful experiences in nature. Oded has organized and led multiple trips, managing all logistics and preparing meals outdoors. He is dedicated to designing group bonding activities that align with the individual goals of each participant.

Over the past five years, Oded has successfully led extended camping trips for teens, adults, and young professionals, creating transformative and memorable experiences. Oded is also the Ambassador Program Coordinator for LGBT+ Outdoors.

Email: Wilsoded@gmail.com

Oded Wilson

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Trip Itinerary

This itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions, park regulations, or other unforeseen circumstances.

Day 1

Arrival & Hot Springs National Park

  • Early afternoon meet-up near Hot Springs National Park

  • Set up camp and settle in

  • Late afternoon group hike with a sunset viewpoint

  • Evening dinner, campfire, and hangout time

Day 2

Hot Springs → Buffalo National River

  • Morning breakfast and hike in Hot Springs

  • Picnic lunch near scenic overlooks

  • Midday free time to explore town, shop, soak in the springs, or relax

  • Afternoon drive to Buffalo National River

  • Evening camp setup, dinner on the road, and sunset at camp

Day 3

Hiking & River Time

  • Relaxed morning and late breakfast

  • Midday hike with lunch along the trail

  • Afternoon paddling on the Buffalo River

  • Evening downtime, dinner, optional sunset stroll

  • Night sky and stargazing

Day 4

Adventure Day

  • Morning breakfast

  • Optional ziplining

  • Lunch near the river

  • Afternoon hiking options with leaders splitting into groups

  • Dinner, campfire, and community time

Day 5

Closing & Departure

  • Early sunrise hike with breakfast

  • Camp breakfast for those staying behind

  • Short morning hike

  • Lunch and closing circle

  • Depart for home in the early afternoon (flexible based on travel needs)

Are scholarships available?

Can I make payments in installments?

Do I need outdoors experience to participate?

Do I need to bring my own gear?

What about meals and dietary restrictions?

What is included in the cost of the trip?

What is the cancellation policy?

What kind of accommodations can I expect?

Who can join an LGBTQ+ Outdoors event?

Will I feel welcome if attending solo?

Will I recieve a refund if I leave the trip early?

Will we get a packing list?