I want a small turf area in the backyard of our new home and I cannot find a grass that will work.
It is sandy soil typical of post oak woods/Eastern Cross Timbers. It is surrounded by post oak woods, with trees 40-50 feet tall.
I want something which uses little water, is not invasive and can be played on by my kids.
I would prefer Buffalo Grass but fear the sand and the lack of sun will make it a poor choice. If this is true, then how can buffalo grass be the native grass for this area?
I don't like the heavy water using choices. I don't like Bermuda because it is so invasive.
I would appreciate any suggestions.
Thank you,
Danny

There is no grass that will work to meet your desires. Buffalo grass is a native out in the praire, not in the woods. There are no grasses growing in the woods. Bermuda (and buffalo, for that matter) is not a choice because you don't have 10 hours a day of full sun. The only grass that might grow in your area is St Augustine but you don't want to water it. St Aug does not go dormant without water, it goes dead. Other ground covers won't work because you want kids to play on it. Have you considered covering the area with mulch? I'm thinking of a chipped wood from the local tree trimmers.

Can the kids play on wood chips without making a mess or getting splinters?

Shoes would only protect their feet. They would get splinters in their hands from falling and catching themselves and their legs would get splinters and scratches as well. I wouldn't suggest it.