Drive along Buffalo Rd. in the Ouachita National Forest’s Shortleaf Pine-Bluestem Grass Ecosystem Management Area to glimpse the U.S. Forest Service's effort to fortify the endangered Red-cockaded Woodpecker in Arkansas. Red-cockaded Woodpeckers are a sensitive and protected species. Your best bet at seeing them is about a half-hour before sunset when they return to their cluster to roost. Keep your distance, stay still and quiet, and stay out during the breeding season.

Northern Bobwhite, Bachman's Sparrow and Prairie Warbler are other pine woodland-loving species that benefit from Red-cockaded Woodpecker habitat management are relatively abundant in the area.

The Buffalo Rd. runs through the Shortleaf Pine-Bluestem Grass Ecosystem Management Area of Ouachita National Forest, which is the largest block of public land available for restoration of Red-cockaded Woodepeckers and associated birds. It is located in the only purely shortleaf pine stand in the woodpecker's range.

The Ouachita National Forest is located primarily in the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas and Oklahoma.  Outstanding mountain views coupled with picturesque streams, rivers, and lakes provide a unique and highly valued setting for outdoor recreation.  The forest offers high quality nature related-sightseeing, scenic driving, hunting, fishing, and dispersed camping.  Learn about the areas rich history at wayside exhibits along a scenic drive or experience unique botanical, mineral, and prehistoric resources featured in information and educational programs.  An extensive trail system provides for all types of uses including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and off-highway vehicles (OHV) riding.  A variety of services can be found at developed campgrounds ranging from rustic tent pads to full-service RV hookups.  Enjoy exceptional water-based recreation opportunities including fishing, non-motorized boating, and passive enjoyment of streams, rivers and lakes.

The Pine-Bluestem Buffalo Road Tour begins west of the Needmore community, located 7 miles south of Waldron, Arkansas, on highway US 71. Note the Needmore Store on 71. The turn onto Buffalo Road is opposite the east turn onto Arkansas 28 to Parks. Look for the sign ”Buffalo Creek Road” and turn west. This is the place to set your odometer at 0. The first tour stop is approximately 2.4 miles west of US 71. Look for informational signs along the roadside.