Arkansas is filled with small towns with some real charm, and today’s featured place just might be our favorite. Along the Buffalo National River resides the small shore side town of Gilbert. It may just look like a dot on the map but it’s so much more. Let’s take a trip to this teeny tiny town and see what kind of adventures we can find.

This teeny tiny town is proud to claim "The Coolest Town in Arkansas." We must admit, they are pretty cool.
Facebook/Buffalo Camping and Canoeing
According to the 2017 United States Census Bureau, the population of Gilbert was only 27. Give or take a few more folks coming and going, the town is still considered one of the smallest in the state. If you need directions on how to get here, use this map.
Gilbert didn't used to be quite so tiny. It had been a small but bustling railroad town.
Facebook/ Searcy County Arkansas Genealogy Archives
The town was established after the Missouri and North Arkansas (M&NA) Railroad line moved south. The town was named after the secretary-treasurer of Allegheny Supply Company (the company building the railroad), Mr. Charles W. Gilbert. Before the railroad and local timber companies waned, the peak of Gilbert's population reached 116 in the 1930s. Not much of the original railroad can be seen but don't worry, there's still plenty of adventure to be had.
Perhaps the best thing about Gilbert is its proximity to the Buffalo National River.
Buffalo Camping and Canoeing
Depending on where you're standing, the rushing waters of the Buffalo are within earshot in the town. The river has endless opportunities for fun, from fishing to floating.

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Before you begin your Buffalo adventure, you should definitely stop at Gilbert's old general store.
Google/Betty Adkins
The general store is now known as the Buffalo National River's most unique canoe concessionaries. The Buffalo Camping and Canoeing still has all the historic charm of the 1901 general store but with a few modern updates (like a shuttle service). If you'd like to learn more about the store's history, you can read our full article right here.
Gilbert is quite a fun day trip but it can easily turn into a pleasant weekend getaway.
Facebook/Buffalo Camping and Canoeing
Gilbert may be small but it's not one of those blink-and-you've-seen-it towns. Plan a weekend trip to the Buffalo and book a stay at one of Gilbert's rustic cabins. For more information, visit this site.
Whatever time of year you visit, this charming town will quickly become one of your favorites.
Facebook/The Gilbert Cafe
For a few more places to visit in Gilbert, head to this site.

Have you visited Gilbert before? Share your favorite things to do with us in the comments below!

Here’s another small town that’s filled with big adventures.

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