Buffalo Creek
The government keeps track of this river
The above link is important because Buffalo Creek is usually not worth paddling. The rule I've heard is that if the level is below 2 feet, bring a 4-wheeler instead of a boat.
I've only run it once, when the water level was 2.15, and there were still a few sections where I struggled to grind my kayak over rocks. Overall, though at that level it was a pretty enjoyable trip.
The creek is mostly mild class I with a few class II drops here and there and a good bit of flatwater. When I ran it on May 2nd, the water was warm enough that a short-sleeved top was enough.
A good place to put in is here. There's a small park between Mak Square and the creek with parking and easy access.
Of course you'll want to have planned ahead and have a car here.
There are a few spots right to the north of the bridge on the east side and getting out is easy.
There are a few points of interest.
- Right after the creek passes under Wilson Drive, it takes and abrupt right turn which is a little challenging to navigate. An outcropping or rock can give you a nasty bump if you're not helmetted.
- Further downriver is a spot called "The Chute". I'm not familiar enough to describe the location, but I recommend searching for it on You Tube.
- A little further down river is an excellent little wave for practicing your surfing skills. Unfortunately, I can't really figure out how to describe the location.