Buffalo National River in northern Arkansas protects the first national river designated in the United States, preserving a long free-flowing stretch of the Buffalo River through the Ozarks. Running from the Boston Mountains to the White River, it crosses varied terrain and is known for rugged scenery, difficult upper-river whitewater, towering bluffs, caves, springs, and landmarks such as Hemmed-In-Hollow Falls. Congress established it on March 1, 1972, to prevent dams and other changes to the river’s natural character, later adding wilderness protection. It remains important for recreation, wildlife habitat, and as an influential example of conserving an undammed living river system.