Floating the Buffalo National River

The Buffalo River has something to offer for everyone, no matter what your level of experience. The 150 mile stretch of river begins in the Boston Mountains and offers Class I and II rapids in the 25 mile stretch between Ponca and Arkansas Hwy 7.

While it's best to float the upper portions of the river during spring and early summer the lower portion can be floated virtually year round. I'd suggest a canoe trip on the Buffalo River during the fall, when the leaves are changing. It's gorgeous.

If you're a laid back kind of person, the 27 mile float from Hwy 65 to Buffalo Point is a great way to spend the day. Just make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and ziploc bags. If you don't accidentally tip your canoe it's almost certain someone in your group will help you out.

The 7 mile canoe trip from Buffalo Point to Rush is perfect if you're taking your kids or it's your first float trip. It's short, there's lots to look at and a good swimming hole or two along the way.

It's best to have lots of sunscreen, a thin long sleeved shirt and hat, and a towel. The oversized zip top bags with handles are perfect. They'll keep things dry and they'll float if they happen to get into the water. Take a cooler with plenty of drinking water and food and don't forget a bag for your trash. Try using a water friendly disposable camera or double bagging your regular model when you aren't using it.

Make certain to check the river conditions and observe proper safety precautions when floating if you aren't using a canoe rental service. If you are using a service they are usually up to date on the Buffalo National River conditions and will advise you of the proper safety precautions.

Have a great trip!


Recommended river levels for canoeing
River Maps, Mileage, River levels, Shuttles
Buffalo River Floater's Guide
National Park Campsites
Map of River and Campgrounds
Current Buffalo River Level Report
Buffalo National River Conditions
Rules and Regulations on the Buffalo National River

Devil's Den State Park 4th of July: West Fork, Arkansas

Looking for a fun way to spend you're Fourth of July? Why not take a trip to Devil's Den State Park? They'll be hosting their 33rd Annual Devil's Den Games.

They will celebrate by having a softball and horseshoe tournament as well as many other games and best of all, they'll top off the event with an ice cream social. Admission is free.

For more information you can contact them at 479-761-3325 or email them at harry.harnish@arkansas.com.

The park everything from primitive camping to rustic CCC cabins available. There are several hiking trails. A free map that can be transferred to your GPS is on the web for the 14 mile long Butterfield Trail Loop if you're feeling adventurous. A park cafe and a swimming pool are open during summer months. You can also rent canoes, tandem kayaks, pedal boats and water bikes to cruise the lovely eight acre lake there.

Have a great trip!

Free GPS map of Butterfield Trail

Rodeo of the Ozarks: Springdale, Arkansas

The Rodeo of the Ozarks is not just a one night event. It starts with a Dinner and Dance on June 28th and ends with a PBR bull riding event on July 5th. Attendees come from all over the country. Some of them even travel the old fashioned way. By wagon train. Every year on June 25th wagons, buggies and horseback riders meet at the Boone County Fairgrounds in Harrison Arkansas and begin the 100 mile trek to the rodeo traveling at the speed of four miles per hour.

The John Shaddox wagon train members are hosted overnight by various families along their route and arrive in time for the July 1st parade (beginning at 3:00 p.m.) that officially kicks off the rodeo. A second parade is held on July 4th at 10:00 a.m. While there is no pre-registration required be sure to read all rules and regulations before participating.

I think the best place to view the parade is at the corner of 265 and Emma Avenue on the lawn of the Jones Center for Families. Bring a blanket or a folding chair and some sunscreen as this parade can last for more than an hour.

The Rodeo features Mutton Bustin' for children aged 4-6 years old and under 55 pounds. The youngsters ride sheep and are graded much in the same way cowboys are. Kids are required to wear a long sleeved shirt, jeans and appropriate footwear. Protective helmets are provided. Top riders move on to the next round ending with a finale on July 4th. Entries are limited to 25 per night and will be accepted beginning May 1st.

You can purchase tickets online and I highly recommend Buckle Club seating if it's in your budget. They also sell Buckle Club memberships packages that are not available online. These include tickets for all four nights of the rodeo, a meal, and free parking passes in the stadium each night. Please keep in mind that all ticket sales are final.

The will be unable to host their normal fireworks display this year but will have a line up of nationally known singers performing a concert after each nights rodeo. Keep an eye on their website for the celebrities names.


The Shiloh Museum will be hosting an Old West Film Festival as well.


June 28 Rodeo Dinner & Dance, Rodeo Community Center, 6:30 – 11:00 p.m.

July 1 Rodeo Parade – Parade begins at the rodeo grounds and proceeds west to downtown Springdale. 3:00 p.m.

July 1-4 64th Annual Rodeo of the Ozarks – gates open at 6:00 p.m. nightly. Mutton Bustin’ begins at 6:30 p.m. Miss Rodeo of the Ozarks 2007 will be crowned on July 4.

July 4 Rodeo Parade - Parade begins at the rodeo grounds and proceeds west to downtown Springdale. 10:00 a.m.

July 5 Buckin’ In The Ozarks PBR Bull Riding, 7:30 p.m.

A few things to keep in mind:

• No pets are allowed. Only service dogs for the disabled are allowed inside the arena.


• No outside food or beverages are allowed.


• No strollers are allowed due to space limitations.


• Still photography cameras are allowed but no device that is capable of recording video is allowed inside including cell phones.


• Smoking is not allowed in the seating area.


• Parking on the grounds is $3.00 There is parking along Hwy 265 and at the Jones Center for Families. Shuttle buses will run in these areas.

Remember that the gates open at 6:00 p.m. and the Grand Entry starts at 7:30. Their events are sanctioned by the PRCA and WPRA so expect to see some great riding going on.

Have a great trip!




Schedule of events

Rules and regulations for participating in Rodeo of the Ozarks parade

The John Shaddox Wagon Train

Mutton Bustin' entries

Old West Film Festival

Parking, security, pets and strollers

Rte 66 Giant Rocker:Cuba Missouri

Cuba, MO On April 1, 4 miles west of Cuba, MO on Route 66, a rocking chair 42’4’’ feet tall was set in place beside the adjoining Fanning US 66 Outpost & General Store. The rocking chair is the brainchild of Outpost owner Dan Sanazaro, a guy with a “can do” attitude.

Sanazaro thought that the fledgling business that he and his wife Carolyn opened in February needed something to draw travelers to its unique combination of taxidermy, lodge style décor, sporting goods, and convenience items.

What better way to garner attention than a 46’ wood and steel rocking chair in the traditional Route 66 colors of black and white. Sanazaro thought it would be like one of the old Route 66 roadside attractions that drew travelers to businesses in the past.

To make his dream a reality, Sanazaro turned to local artist, soon-to-be engineer John Bland. Bland, who isn’t afraid of a challenge, drew a sketch of the chair and then drew the blue prints to scale. He took his plans to a civil engineer, who ran the plans through computer software to test the engineering specifications. Although Bland had no formal training as an engineer, his plans were off only by a fraction of an inch. With adjustments made, Sanazaro and Bland were ready to bring a builder on board.

For this step of the process, Sanazaro turned to long-time friend Joe Medwick, who had the equipment and know-how to make the rocking chair a reality. With 25 years of experience in welding, Medwick of 5M Welding and Excavation, knew that he could build the chair.

First, Medwick fabricated the rockers, which are 31 ½ feet long and weigh about 2000 pounds each. He moved the rockers to the Outpost and constructed the rest of the rocking chair there using eight and eleven inch steel pipe. Medwick measured, cut, and welded the frame on site with the frame lying on the ground. Artist Bland painted the Outpost logo, “Route 66 Rocker,” and “World’s Largest” on a wooden panel that serves as the rocker back. Painting mitts were used to prime the frame white, and a coat of black paint followed.

On April 1st, two cranes were summoned to lift the frame onto the rockers. With the crowd watching in fascination, the large frame moved through the air to the steel rockers. After some final adjustments and cutting, and with sparks flying, Medwick made the final welds.

The Route 66 Rocker now looms above the road to attract another generation of Route 66 travelers to wonder at what American ingenuity can do when three men with a dream come together.

The Outpost’s website is

http://fanning66outpost.com/

. Although the site is still under construction, Dan and Carolyn can be emailed through the site. The phone number is 573-885-1474.

Car Show & Swap Meet: Gateway, Arkansas

Gateway is holding a car show and swap meet the last weekend of April. It's their fourth year in a row. The swap meet is held Friday and Saturday. The car show is Saturday only. They'll have an antique tractor display, a DJ, food, games, and door prizes.

The event will be held rain or shine. No alcohol, loud radios or burn-outs are allowed. The event is held at the Gateway City Park on the south side of Highway 62.

If you're interested in attending or registering and need more information contact Buzz @ 479-656-3929/479-366-7372 or Lida @ 479-633-5029/479-656-3934

It's a great way to spend some time with your family.

Have a great trip!

Where Sweet Hit the Streets on Route 66: Cuba, Missouri

A site on Route 66 was a natural when chocolatier Marcia Wilson looked for a storefront for her on-line candy business that had outgrown her kitchen. Back in the 70s, Wilson’s folks ran a liquor store in a building that was for sale in Cuba on Route 66 next to the post office. Besides the nostalgic desire to have the building where her parents’ had their store, Route 66 travelers would have easy access to her store, and it would be easy to ship orders at the post office. It was a sweet location.

In fact, Wilson has put out the word on Route 66 newsgroup sites that she is collecting Route 66 maps and brochures to decorate her storefront
Wilson credits her mother and grandmother for the recipes for her homemade fudge that started her business. After her sales on eBay established her business, she expanded her line of flavors and kinds of candies. Her over 500 chocolate molds allow her to customize her chocolates to special occasions and needs.
Wilson opened her Route 66 Fudge Shop at 705 W. Washington (Rt. 66) right before Christmas and had customers waiting in line to buy her fudge, gift baskets, and other specialized chocolates. In the week before Valentine’s, she made candy until the wee hours of the morning. Individual and corporate orders demand chocolates.

“I love the challenge of making perfect, decadent candy that tastes great and looks beautiful too. I feel this allows me to use my talents because it is creative, challenging, and quite rewarding. I am always looking for a new candy challenge,” Wilson remarked.

Wilson achieved one of her business goals by introducing a signature line of Route 66 candy bars in March. The Route 66 candy bars are available in 12 flavors and can be purchased individually or in a gift box of 12. Each Route 66 candy bar bears a slogan such as “Turnpike Toffee” or “Main Street Mint” to express the flavor of the road as well as the flavor of the candy bars. There’s also a Route 66 Down The Lane diet bar.

One of the bars is caramel chocolate and bears the graphics of the Viva Cuba Mural Project, which commissioned the 12 outdoor murals in Cuba, a town that boasts the title “Route 66 Mural City.” The mural project receives part of the proceeds from this bar to fund ongoing mural maintenance.

“I can’t wait to see the reaction to the candy bars from Route 66 travelers. The history of Route 66 is so important to our town, and we get a lot of travelers who stop to see the murals,” Wilson said.

Now these travelers will have one more reason to stop in Cuba “where the sweets hit the streets along Route 66.”

To see pricing and all the flavors of the new Rt. 66 Candy Bars visit

www.route66fudgeshop.com

Other information about Cuba, Missouri

Carr Phillips 66: Cuba, Missouri

Route 66 Mural City: Cuba, Missouri

A guide Cuba Missouri's Murals

Route 66

Weather in Cuba, Missouri

112 Drive In:Fayetteville, Arkansas

Lots of us remember going to the drive-in as kids. You could take a blanket and watch the movie under the stars while munching on popcorn. Children didn't have to be still or particularly quiet and when they got sleepy you could tuck them into the back seat while you watched the show.


At the height of it's popularity there were about 50 in Arkansas. Now their are only three and luckily Fayetteville has one of them. The 112 Drive-In is located off the 112 Exit on Interstate 540 on the west side of the highway.

They are open every spring in March and run through November. They show a double feature on the weekends. The price is $10 dollars per carload. This covers the cost of both shows. There is a well stocked concession stand and bathrooms are available. You listen to the movie by tuning in to 92.7 on your car radio or you can bring a battery operated radio if you plan on sitting outside.

They do have a parking policy that they enforce. Cars are parked in the front and taller vehicles such as trucks and SUV's are placed toward the back. No one is allowed to sit on top of vehicles. Hatches must be tied down to roof height. Blankets and chairs must be kept within one parking space or you have the option of paying for a second space if you'd like to spread out. If anyone is causing a disturbance security personnel will ask them to leave.

To find out what's playing you can call 479-442-4542 any time, day or night. If you have questions wait until the recording is finished and you have the option of leaving a message. The show starts at dark.

Take time out to go to one of our drive-ins while visiting the Ozarks.

Have a great trip!


112 Drive-In
Kenda Drive-In: Marshall
Stone Drive-In: Mtn. View 1-870-269-3227
Find out about movies at www.wearemoviegeeks.com

The Great Backyard Bird Count

Every year a national bird count is sponsered by the National Audobon Society. You and your family can take part no matter where you live in North America. This year it takes place from February 16-19.

To participate, pick a location the time you'd like to watch for birds. Then make a list and keep track of how many birds you see of each species during that time. You can download a checklist that is specific to your area at the Audobon Society website. Just put in your zip code and it will pull up a list. There are links to photos and information about each type of bird if you're not certain what a particular species looks like. The option of adding rare birds is also available.

There is no need to count birds for all four days. You can take a couple of hours during a morning or afternoon and go to the park, a national forest or your own back yard to do the count.

After you have your results log on to the website and submit your results. You may also submit photos and videos. Prizes ranging from binoculars to guidebooks are awarded in the photo contest.

The information that you provide will help scientists and conservationists to determine changes in bird populations and their distribution.

Which birds do people find the most? The North American Cardinal is #1 on the list with American Robins coming in second.

If you're in the Ozarks be sure and keep an eye out for our National Bird, the bald eagle. They have been removed from the endangered list and are now so abundant that you can see them as you drive along the road or cruise the local lakes. I saw four within 10 minutes myself.

Whether it's during the Great Backyard Bird Count time frame or not. Birdwatching is a great way to spend family time and it's inexpensive as well. Watch for our Ozarks birds when you're in the area.

Have a great trip!

Bird Watching Checklist by region

Submit your results here

Upload your birdwatching video to YouTube

Great Backyard Bird Count Photo Contest

A Winter Getaway at Big Cedar Lodge:Missouri

Big Cedar Lodge is a Wilderness resort near Branson, Missouri that is owned by Bass Pro Shops. While it's a fabulous resort with golfing, a spa, a marina, horseback riding and a ton of fair weather family activities, don't overlook it for a winter get away.

Their spa services are just as relaxing in the winter and the room rates are much better. Though it's not listed on their website you can normally get a one room cabin for as little as $125.00 per night and unlike other times of the year you can rent it for only one night.

You can get a cabin with a fireplace, jacuzzi bath, full kitchen and it has a balcony with a grill on it. It's a perfect place to spend Valentine's Day, an anniversary or just have a romantic getaway. Make sure to book a massage and throw some steaks and a bottle of wine in the cooler. And don't forget to . . .

Have a great trip!

Big Cedar Lodge

Bass Pro Shops

Big Cedar Lodge room rates

Guided Pheasant Hunts:Yellville Arkansas

Ozark Mountain Bird hunts provides guided pheasant, chucker and quail hunts on their farm located just one mile from Yellville, Arkansas. Mike and David offer a variety of hunting packages.

You can take your pick of hunting quail, pheasant or chucker or do a combo and choose to hunt all three. They also offer European style hunts for 5-12 people at a time. The European hunts include 15 pheasant per person and the birds are breasted, bagged and made freezer ready for you following the hunt.

Because they are a licensed hunting preserve it is not necessary to obtain a hunting license. Mike says that handicapped hunters are welcome. It is possible to use wheelchairs at this time and they will have golf carts available in the near future.

Each hunter must have their own gun. What's the best gun to use for game bird hunting? Mike recommends a 12 or 20 gauge with a modified or improved cylinder choke. You should use #7-8 shot shells for the dog hunts and #6 shot for the European hunts.

You must supply your own hunter orange. If you don't have your own bird dogs they will be supplied for you.

Ozark Mountain Bird hunts furnishes water and sodas and you are welcome to bring your own snacks. Absolutely no alcohol is allowed either before or during the hunt. You may be asked to forfeit the hunt if alcohol use is suspected.

Hunting season is open from October 1-March 31.

If you enjoy a good hunt then add a trip to Ozark Mountain Bird Hunts to your travel plans.

To book a hunt call 1-800-268-3474 or 1870-453-8502 or email Mike at crzymike@flippinweb.com

Their website is located at www.ozarkbirdhunt.com

Have a great trip!

Ozark Mountain Bird Hunt Rates

Purchase an Arkansas Hunting License Online

Hunting Safety and Ethics

Weather in Yellville Arkansas

Hunting with Kids

Motorcyle Riding in the Ozarks

Thousands of bikers tour the Ozarks each year. With it's scenic drives, varied attractions and bike friendly hotels, restaurants and events riding here is the perfect way to spend your biking vacation.

When a road is marked "scenic" in the Ozarks it's a good bet that you're in for some very curvy and hilly roads. If you normally ride on flat and/or straight terrain or are new to riding, be cautious. It's easy to lose control on some of those curves even when you're used to them. Please be aware that not all Ozarks counties have 911 service available and cell service can be patchy.

Cruise the Ozarks is a great resource for trip planning. They have descriptions and maps of many scenic roads trip planning maps and bike friendly accomodations listings.

Eureka Springs is on everyone's destination list. Thousand's of bikers visit here each year. The narrow streets and unique shopping and dining venues make Eureka on of the most interesting places you'll ever visit. As an added bonus there are tons of scenic day rides in the area and it's near Pea Ridge National Military Park.

The biggest biker event in the Ozarks is Bikes Blues and BBQ held on Dickson Street in Fayetteville, Arkansas. This huge four day event draws bikers from all over. It takes place the last weekend in September and runs Wednesday thru Saturday. They have BBQ cook offs, vendors, live music, a biker parade and great giveaways. It's estimated that between 50,000 and 100,000 bikes were there last year. Since it's completely free they can't be sure.

If you have a bike or are planning on purchasing one. The Ozarks is the destination for you. Don't forget to include us in your travel plans.

Have a great trip!

Bikes Blues and BBQ:Fayetteville, Arkansas

Oklahoma motorcylce races, rallys and swap meets

Missouri biker swap meets and rallys

Arkansas Poker runs and biker swap meets

Preparing for a motorcylce trip

Arkansas helmet laws

Missouri helmet laws

Oklahoma helmet laws

Open Gym:Springdale, Arkansas

Every Friday night Durham's Gymnastics hosts an open gym. It runs from 6:30-8:30 pm and costs $8 for the first child with a $2 discount for additional children.

Kids under six must be accompanied by an adult but older children can be dropped off as long as appropriate paperwork is filled out. Your child should wear comfortable stretchy clothing that is adequate for doing gymnastics. It's not necessary for them to wear a leotard.

The average ages of children who attend are from 3-14 years old. Handicap children are accepted as well but you'll need to call the school at 479-751-8844 and ascertain whether the child will be eligible for drop off or will require adult supervision.

If you're having a family reunion or other event in the Ozarks and would like something fun for the kids the school will host an hour and a half party for up to fifteen children for $80.00.

If you're children are eligible for drop off it'll give you time to have a nice quiet dinner at one of the excellent nearby restaurants.

Have a great trip!

Driving directions and map to Durham's Gymnastics

Durham's Gymnastics website

Kids gymnastics party at Durham's

Carr Phillips 66: Cuba, Missouri

While you're traveling through Cuba checking out the murals make sure you stop by the restored Carr Phillips 66 station on the corner of Washington and Franklin streets.

Built in 1932 it's a unique piece of Route 66 history.

Have a great trip!

Route 66

A guide to Cuba's murals

Weather in Cuba, Missouri

The Coffee Break Bookstore:Pea Ridge, Arkansas

The Coffee Break Bookstore is a good place to spend an hour or so after touring the nearby Pea Ridge National Military Park . It's a cozy bookstore with places to sit and read. They also have a coffee shop and snacks.

They have a good selection of new and used books and they're very reasonably priced. If you've got books to get rid of they have a book exchange/store credit policy.

If you've been traveling and want to swing by with your laptop and check your email or just surf the net they have wireless internet available as well.

The bookstore offers a number of programs so you may want to call ahead and ask if any seminars or classes will be taking place during your visit to the Ozarks.

One thing to keep in mind is that this bookstore is not handicap accessible and the aisles are fairly narrow.

The do have a seperate kids room for the young readers in your family. And there is a public restroom available.

If you need a break from sight seeing this is a wonderful place to relax.

Coffee Break Bookstore

955 Curtis Avenue

Pea Ridge, Arkansas 72751

Phone: 479-451-8924

coffeebreak@centurytel.com

Have a great trip!

The Coffee Break Bookstore online

Weather in Pea Ridge, Arkansas

Pea Ridge National Military Park

Tour Missouri's Wineries

Missouri has over fifty wineries. some offer free tours, others have cottages and restaurants available as well. Take time to visit a Missouri winery while you're touring the Ozarks. You'll be glad you did.

White Rose Winery-Carthage, open daily except Wednesday, bed and breakfast and restaurant

LeCave Vineyards-Billings, hosts events throughout the year

Whispering Oaks Vineyard & Winery- Seymour, hosts a yearly grape stomping event

Stone Hill Winery- Branson, Hermann and New Florence, open daily

Peaceful Bend Vineyard - Steelville, open Tues-Sun. Cabin rental available

Bonanza Spring Winery-Poplar Bluff, open by appt only.

Have a great trip!

The History of Wine in Missouri
Make your own wine
Making your own wine labels

Hiking the Ozark Highlands National Trail: Arkansas

The Ozark Highlands National Recreation Trail is one of the most spectacular trails you'll ever hike on. The 165 mile trial stretches from Lake Fort Smith State Park all the way to the Buffalo National River.

If you're a beginning hiker you can still enjoy the trail. You'll find that it's been broken into many shorter more manageable hikes. You can always contact the Ozark Highland Trails Association and join them for an outing. They list upcoming events on their site.

For you folks that are old pros at hiking you'll find the trails challenging will be rewarded with views beyond compare. If you're new to the Ozarks make sure you study the local wildlife before starting off. I've listed resources at the bottom of the page.

A word about chiggers. Chiggers are tiny red bugs that gather where every your clothes fit closest to your body, like the top of socks or under your waistband. You can barely see them and they come in clusters. When they bite you, you'll itch like crazy for two or three days. Regular mosquito repellent will also discourage chiggers. If you're not up for chemical repellents powdered sulpher will work just as well.

Please remember that not all rural areas have 911 service as of yet. If you are carrying a cell phone as most folks do these days make certain that you get the emergency services numbers for the county you'll be hiking in. In the event of an accident you'll be able to contact the correct authorities with a minimum of fuss. This should be done even if you only plan to hike for a couple of hours or so.

While you're on your Ozarks vacation make time for at least one trail. With the wide number of short hikes available it's a great addition to your travel plans. Always wear sensible shoes, stay on the trail and follow safety rules even for short hikes.

Have a great trip!

Ozark Highlands Trail Maps and Mileage
Ozark Highlands Trail Association
Lake Fort Smith State Park
Poisonous Snakes of Arkansas
How to remove a tick
What is giardia?
Be aware of bears
Hiking for beginners
Low impact camping
First aid kit list for hikers







Buffalo National River

Silver Dollar City: Branson, Missouri

Thousands of people visit Silver Dollar City daily. It's a great thing to do when you visit Branson. They have world class roller coasters, lots of shows, water rides, shops and kiddie rides. There is literally something for the whole family.

To get the complete experience you need to plan on spending a couple of days here. The best way to do that is with a season pass. Currently a season pass is only about $20 more than a one day pass.

A season pass has other benefits as well. Here they are as listed on the SDC website.

Unlimited visits to Silver Dollar City. Save $5 off the regular one-day adult or child admission price for up to 6 guests visiting with you on all operating days, except March 29, 2008. Save 10% on meals over $4.00 for you and up to 6 guests (Not valid on concessions). Save 20% on breakfast at Molly's Mill 8-11am through October 25 for you and up to 6 guests with you. Save 20% on Eva & Delilah's signature loaf breads (Limited quantity). Kids eat FREE at the Mine Restaurant after 4pm through October 25 with adult meal purchase. Only one discount or offer applies to food purchases. Valid 2008 operating season only.

The best way to plan your trip is to spend the morning on the rides and the afternoon in shows or the shops. The lines get very long as the day wears on. If you get wet have lunch and dry out before going into the shows. Some of them are very well air-conditioned and some have cloth seats. If you go on the Lost River Ride, The Water Boggan and Fire in the Hole you will get wet. If you have a water fight in Geyser Gulch you'll be soaked to the skin.

Don't forget their free night time show comes with the ticket. It's always a really good show. And it doesn't cost extra. If you're staying for a week or so you can always plan to attend it another night.

Keep in mind, there is no transportation through the park. The terrain is very steep and hilly. I wouldn't plan on using a regular wheelchair or trying to get through it with a walker. You need to be in pretty good shape. If you use a motorized wheelchair make sure the brakes are in excellent condition and your battery has a full charge before you attempt this park.

Lockers are available but they're all the way up by the ticket booth so it isn't convenient to run back out and get something that you've left there.

They do have stroller rentals if you didn't bring yours along. You'll park in a lot and ride a bus or trolley up to the park entrance. So if you've got a large stroller be prepared for that. If you don't want to deal with parking and driving the Best Western nearby runs a shuttle service if you're staying with them.

If you're looking for an inexpensive place to stay you can try Tall Pines Camping Cabins. They are a good alternative when you're on a budget.

When you get to the park you can purchase an insulated mug and get refills inexpensively all day. Well maybe not inexpensively but it's cheaper than buying fountain drinks all day. And you'll have another souvenir mug to add to your collection. Also I've found that the restaraunts will fill it with ice water at no extra charge.

Just remember to pace yourself and enjoy the day. With that season pass you don't have to worry about cramming it all in. If you get tired, go back to the room and have nap. After all it's a vacation. Naps are allowed.

Have a great trip!

Silver Dollar City

Get directions with an interactive map

Best Western Inn

Tall Pines Camping Cabins

Current gas prices in Branson, Missouri

Weather in Branson, Missouri

Map of Branson, Missouri

Other Branson, Missouri Attractions

Helpful Links for Ozark Travel

These are some links you may find helpful when planning your Ozarks vacation.


Current Gas Prices

RV Park Reviews

MISSOURI LINKS

Bed & Breakfast Inns of Missouri

Attraction and Street Map of Branson, Missouri

Missouri Route 66 Points of Interest

Missouri Scenic Highways

Missouri Grottoes (Caving clubs)

Equine accomadations in Missouri

Branson Attractions


ARKANSAS LINKS


Arkansas Civil War Sites

Arkansas Scenic Highways

Arkansas Razorbacks game schedule

Arkansas Ozarks Bed & Breakfast

Top five Midwest Vacations

Scott County Museum: Waldron, Arkansas

Blythe's Famous Scott County Museum in Waldron, Arkansas is a perfect addition to your Ozark travel plans. Mr. Blythe began collecting Indian artifacts at the age of nine after his grandmother explained to him that they were part of his heritage.

To date he has collected and cataloged over 14,000 arrowheads. He also has numerous pieces of pottery and a selection of tools. The bulk of these are Caddo in origin. Universities and other groups frequently tour his collection.



The collection does not stop with Indian artifacts. While a large portion of items originate from the United States Mr. Blythe traveled extensively during his military career and brought back many treasures from overseas. Napoleon's swords from France, coins from Ancient Greece and Chinese armor are but a few of the items exhibited.

An impressive firearms collection representing many eras is on display alongside uniforms and other gear. There is a lock from Judge Parker's courthouse, a beard washing bowl, and many many other antiquities. Some have been requested by the Smithsonian.

Mr. Blythe plans on keeping them in Scott County and continuing in his quest to preserve the history of his Indian ancestors, Scott County and the rest of the world for generations of visitors to come.

The museum is housed in the end of a long blue metal building. A pawn shop is in one end and a mechanic shop is in the middle. It looks ordinary from the outside. It's anything but. From the stumps of extinct petrified trees and the county's long abandoned grain gin in the parking lot to the extensive collection inside, this museum is one of a kind.

They don't have regular hours at this time as they are undergoing a renovation. It should be complete in early 2008. Give them a call to set up a tour 479-637-3730. You can find them at GPS: 34º 40' 2.4'' N / 93º 14' 8.4'' W or Business Hwy 71. Watch for a small sign that says Museum almost obscured by trees on the north side of town.

Maybe it will inspire you to start a collection of your own.

Have a great trip!


The Caddo Indians in Arkansas
A Guide to Hunting Arrowheads
Ancient Greek and Roman Coins
Collecting as a hobby

Turkey Track Bluegrass Music Park: Waldron
Weather conditions in Waldron Arkansas

Research Your Family Tree: Springdale, Arkansas

The Jones Center for Families in Springdale Arkansas is home to a full service LDS genealogy center. The Family Research Center is staffed five days a week by knowledgeable volunteers. They don't do research for you but are available to suggest resources, help you get started on the computers and help you locate available resources.

A number of computers are available with access to Ancestry.com. This will allow you to access census, military, birth, death, and marriage records to name a few. They also have microfiche records which include Accelerated Indexing Systems (a list of persons living in the US from 1607-1906), Periodic Source Index (subject index for genealogical journals) Parish and Vital Records List, Parochial Registers of Scotland and many more.

The Family Research Center is normally open 10am - 9pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9-1 on Wednesday, 10-6 on Friday, 10-2 on Saturday. If you are planning a trip you may want to call 1-479-756-8090 x 154 to confirm that they will be open.

While you're there consider taking advantage of some of the Jones Center's other facilities such as free swimming and ice skating. Whatever you choose to do, the Jones Center for Families is a great addition to your Ozark travel plans.

Have a great trip!

Jones Center for Families

Driving directions to the Jones Center

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