Get to Know America’s National Rivers

The National Park Service oversees an incredible variety of places, everything from the famous National Parks you’ve seen on postcards to quieter but still spectacular national monuments that fly under the radar. If you’ve read our other articles here on OIYS, you already know the NPS also looks after water-based gems like national seashores and lakeshores. This time, we’re turning our attention to another special kind of waterway: national rivers, protected stretches of water that showcase some of the most beautiful and ecologically important rivers in the country.

Protecting scenic beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage, these federally designated stretches of river offer opportunities for us to connect with nature. Whether you’re into paddling their currents, hiking along the banks, swimming, or simply taking in the views, national rivers are definitely worth a visit and are a key part of the National Park Service as a whole.

What is a National River?

To fully understand how national rivers are designated, we must also discuss the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. This is a federal program that was created back in 1968 by the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to protect certain rivers with “outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values in a free-flowing condition.” Translation: they usually cannot be damned, diverted, or heavily altered to maintain healthy habitats and extremely clean water.

Under the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, four main agencies are charged with protecting and managing these waterways: the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the U.S. Forest Service.

Some rivers that fall under this program also carry a special designation known as Partnership Wild and Scenic Rivers (PWSRs), meaning the National Park Service works hand-in-hand with local communities, governments, watershed groups, and non-governmental agencies to care for them. Together with the National Park Service, they create and follow a management plan that reflects both the needs of the river and the people who live along it.

Find a National River Near You

The National Park Service offers an interactive map that allows you to discover national rivers or national parks featuring rivers across the country.

Buffalo National River - Arkansas

Buffalo National River was designated in 1927 as America’s very first national river. It flows for 135 miles through the Ozark Mountains and is known for its towering limestone bluffs, hidden caves, and crystal-clear pools. The mighty Buffalo is a paddler’s paradise in spring and a peaceful float in summer. There are also hiking trails that lead to waterfalls, elk herds can be found in the upper river valley, and historic homesteads tell stories of early settlers. The Buffalo National River maintains several campgrounds, and you can even enjoy sections of the river with your dog!

New River Gorge National River - West Virginia

Despite its name, the New River is actually one of the oldest rivers in the world, carving its way through the rugged Appalachian canyons for millions of years. Once designated as a national river (and now part of New River Gorge National Park), this is a major destination for whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and snapping photos of the iconic steel arch bridge that spans the gorge.

Fun fact: you can actually walk under that towering bridge on a guided tour, more than 800 feet above the flowing rapids below! We did this in 2023, and it was an unforgettable way to conquer my fear of heights and get a literal bird’s-eye view of the river far below. In the fall, the surrounding hardwood forests explode in vibrant colors, making scenic drives and hikes along the river absolutely breathtaking

Niobrara National Scenic River - Nebraska

The Niobrara National Scenic River is a hidden Midwestern gem flowing through the central part of the state. Known for its crystal-clear waters, limestone bluffs, and more than 200 waterfalls (yes, waterfalls in Nebraska!), it's a favorite for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing in the summertime. We recently drove through this area on a cross-country trip, and it’s incredibly picturesque!

There’s a convergence of ecosystems along the riverbanks here as wel,l with eastern hardwoods, western conifers, and northern plants all meeting, making it rich in both wildlife and unique plant life. Whether you’re paddling for the day or camping along the shore, the Niobrara offers a peaceful, nature-filled escape far from the usual tourist spots.

Make the Most of Your Visit

Our number one tip is always to check conditions before you go, especially when dealing with water. River levels and currents can change quickly with the weather, and you want to be as prepared as possible!

Safety first! Even experienced swimmers should wear a life jacket when boating or paddling. There can be hidden rocks, logs, and currents… even in seemingly calm stretches of the river.

Since many of these rivers flow through various areas of land ownership, definitely make sure you’re respecting private property that might share sections of the river. And as always, practice ‘Leave No Trace’ by packing out all trash, respecting wildlif,e and sticking to designated trails and campsites.
You can learn more about National Rivers and other great National Park Service sites here on Only in Your State or at nps.gov.