Camping Updates
What do these people all have in common?
Saturday, June 17, 2006
 See those people out in their canoes?
I took this picture Saturday morning on the bridge right by Black River Lodge.
What do the people in this picture all have in common?
They're having fun out on the Black River!
I hope you'll make your reservations today for your float trip, camp site, or lodge. You'll love your stay in the Black River area.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry at 10:14 am Pets in Paradise
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
 I received an email from Chris last week.
He wanted to know two things:
1) What's the story on using ATVs/4-wheeler's in the Black River area? and
2) Can he bring his pet?
I already mentioned this in a post I put up here called "Double Cheeseburger in Paradise" on May 25th. But for you new readers, THE place to use your four-wheeler is the Sutton Bluff Recreation Area.
Don't forget to stop in at the Centerville Quickstop to get your trail permit. You'll need one before you take your ATV into the Sutton Bluff Recreation Area.
Regarding pets, I had to do a bit of research. I now believe ExperienceBlackRiver.com is your best source of information about bringing your pets to the greater Lesterville area.
Here's what I found out:
Bearcat Getaway pets allowed with a leash
Black River Camping at Horseshoe Ranch pets allowed with a leash
Black River Cozy Cabin pets allowed
Black River Family Motel no pets
Black River Lodge no pets
Brushy Creek Lodge and Resort pets allowed with a leash
Camp Taum Sauk no pets
Cedar Valley Lodge pets allowed with a leash
Crocker’s Country Charm B&B no pets
Deer Creek Campground pets allowed with a leash
Hidden Meadows Cottages no pets
Koinania Cottage no pets
Kyle’s Campground pets allowed
Log Cabin Inn no pets
Parks Bluff Campground pets allowed with a leash
Rachel’s Bed and Breakfast no pets
Riversedge Campground pets allowed with a leash
Sherwood Forest Camp no pets
Sunset Ridge Cabin pets allowed except large breeds
Trump Lake Resort pets allowed with a leash
Twin Rivers Landing pets allowed with a leash $6/night
Wilderness Lodge Resort no pets
Be sure to call and confirm this information with the campground owner or Lodge operator before you show up with your favorite pet companion.
I'll see you (and Fido) on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 1:44 pm
The Other Shut-Ins
Friday, June 9, 2006
With the recent re-opening of the Johnsons Shut-Ins State Park, I've heard a whole lot of talk about the Shut-Ins themselves.
They are magnificent to see. And so many fondly recall all the fun they've had swimming and playing in the water.
Did you know that Johnsons Shut-Ins aren't the only shut-ins to be enjoyed in the Black River area?
The Millstream Gardens Conservation Area is a fantastic place to visit when you visit the Black River area.
This is true in part because of "The Other Shut-Ins," the Tiemann Shut-Ins.
I wasn't dressed to get in the water when I visited the Tiemann Shut-Ins in April, but I walked right out into the middle of the river atop the rock formations.
It's an unforgettable and truly unique experience.
I'll see you on the Black River.
Posted by Kevin Perry 8:26 pm Maps, Old and New
Wednesday, June 7, 2006
 People have been trying to find their way to the fun in the Lesterville area for a long time.
A good map just can't be beat for that job.
I'm proud of the map we're offering on http://www.experienceblackriver.com/.
But it's not the only one "out there."
One of my favorites appears to be printed on an old bandana (if I remember it correctly) mounted on a door in the back corner inside Lenny's.
You'll have to visit Denny and Cathy personally to see the old map up close.
You might as well drive on down this weekend.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 10:08 pm New Web Info Source
Wednesday, June 7, 2006
Black River Lodge has just put up a new web page to provide information about their services and facilities.
You can view it at http://blackriverlodge.blogspot.com/.
Check it out and give them a call when you're planning your visit to the Black River Area.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 9:45 pm Slow About Elephant Rocks
Monday, June 5, 2006
 I'm slow. I know.
I'm finally posting a pic up here of a visit I made to Elephant Rocks State Park way back in April.
Speaking of slow...I'd never seen them before!
These huge granite formations are worth the trip down here, even if you do nothing else, and I know you won't do that!
Elephant Rocks State Park is not like some fancy museum in which you get to just see the big rocks. No! When you're here you get to be on the rocks, near the rocks, between the rocks, not beneath the rocks, but definitely among them.
For an interesting contrast experience, why not start your day at Elephant Rocks State Park, then come over to the newly re-opened Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park. The tour of the boulder field is fascinating.
I did the tour, as well as the new driving tour through the Park on the Thursday evening before Memorial Day weekend. Amazing!
Even though I'm slow about seeing Elephant Rocks, you shouldn't be. Plan your visit to the Black River area today.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 11:38 pm Cool Comfortable Cottage
Monday, June 5, 2006
My wife and I have been talking about our plans for a vacation in North Carolina. We decided to stay in a cottage, rather than the usual hotel experience.
For your visit to the Black River area, campgrounds, lodges and motels may not be your cup of tea.
Why not stay in a cottage?
Last week, I met Tammy at Hidden Meadows Cottages in Black, Missouri.
She showed us the three lovely cottages she has for her guests. They are fully furnished and, depending on the cottage you select, can sleep as many as five guests overnight.
Tammy even has a hot tub for guests!
I liked most the way the cottages are situated in an open area surrounded by trees. Even though the days had been very hot, the shade was perfect. None of her recent guests had used their air conditioning!
I loved the charm and personal, unique features of these cottages.
Tammy said she always has hikers, float trip fanatics, and flea market and antique shoppers.
Last week she had her very first guests who were in search of something completely different; they were looking for clues about their ancestors.
Hidden Meadows Cottages, it turns out, is a great launching point for easy access to the many small, old cemetaries in the area in which geneaology research can be done.
Don't miss out on this cool and comfortable lodging opportunity when you plan your visit to the Black River area.
I'll see you on the Black River.
Posted by Kevin Perry 6:38 am Horsin' Around
Monday, June 5, 2006
In an update I wrote last week, I mentioned that Brushy Creek Resort was a great place for a western adventure.
They offer cross-country trail rides as well as guided rides on the Ozark Trail.
Today, I received an email from Mary Wiltberger, who operates Koinania Cottage. She let me know tha Koinania Cottage has horseback riding available nearby.
You'll enjoy reading what others have said about their stay at Koinania Cottage here.
And don't forget, Riversedge Camping and Floating features trail rides, too!
Call for details.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 7:57 am I Saw It, But I Forgot To Ask
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
 I saw this comical contraption at Brushy Creek Resort in Black, MO.
But I don't know what it is.
I forgot to ask while I was there.
So I guess I'll have to go back.
If you stay there before I do, please email me to let me know what in the world it is!
I'll see you (on horseback?) on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 12:02 pm Unique Lodging
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
 If tent camping by the river, or a beautiful lodge, or cozy cabins just aren't what you're looking for, you'll want to stay in Black, MO at Brushy Creek Lodge and Resort.
But you might have to compete with others (make your reservations early) to stay in one of these tee-pees!
While you're here, ride the Ozark Trail on horseback.
And eat at the Trails End restaurant.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 11:55 am An Old Refrigerator
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
 They didn't have refrigerators back when folks first lived on the property that is now the home of Koinania Cottage.
When you come to stay, you'll get to check out this old cellar that kept things cool year-round, regardless of the outdoor temperature.
I can't resist: It's cool!
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 11:22 am Missouri Maple
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
 Well...that's a rare peek inside my refrigerator at home.
That jar is a gift that was given to me this morning by Mary Wiltberger, the owner of Koinania Cottage.
Wow! I didn't know what to expect when I arrived at her place this morning.
I'll tell you more later. But for now, I'll let you know that this place provides a very cozy, close-knit family retreat in nature.
There are so many special touches to experience here.
Mary and her whole family go out of their way to take care of you so you can be close to creation.
There's a brook right by the cottage to play in. And a nearby blackberry bramble to pick.
There are the "mini-Elephant Rocks" to climb on.
And on and on.
You can even visit in the Winter and help Mary tap the maple trees. All the sap is delivered down the road to a nearby friend who cooks the sap to syrup.
It is intensely good!
Mary says this is a place where families become families again and kids become kids again, untouched by the rat race of daily modern life.
I told my wife and daughter about Koinania Cottages, and we can't wait to come here as a family.
I hope you'll call Mary today and reserve your week with this extraordinary family and this incredible opportunity to get close to nature.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 11:10 am Millstone, Not Flintstones
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
I saw this old mill stone by the picnic pavillion at the Dillard Mill State Historic Site.
Flashback! It made me think of the Flintstones, the cartoon I watched when I was a kid.
Unilke in the cartoons, where these were wheels, these mill stones were used to grind wheat into flour.
Who knows what will come to mind when you're out on an educational, outdoor adventure like Dillard Mill State Historic Site?
I hope you'll develop some fond memories that last a lifetime!
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 9:22 am New Cedar Picnic Pavillion
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
 If you're looking for a beautiful place to picnic with your family, come to the Dillard Mill State Historic Site.
Right near the parking lot, in the shade of trees along the stream is this BRAND NEW picnic pavillion.
It's gorgeous. All of the cedar (I think) wood beams and cedar picnic tables are brand new. They've never been used. And they're freshly finished...waiting for you to use and enjoy.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry at 9:14 am A Sign of Good Things to Come
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
 I know it's just a sign.
But it's a sign of a great experience ahead.
Dillard Mill State Historic Site is just one of dozens of reasons you should plan your visit to the Black River area now.
When you get down here, you'll have plenty to do.
See our attractions map for help in planning your vacation or weekend getaway.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 9:08 am Barn Red Mill
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
 This is the mill building at Dillard Mill State Historic Site.
It looks great in the morning light. I can't see anything like this in my hometown.
It's an imposing structure when you stand down by the water and look back up.
Enjoy!
This attraction is well worth the short drive off the main road...on your way to the Black River.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 9:03 am Get Close, The Water's Gorgeous
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
 When I took this picture, I wanted you to be able to see the mill building and the water as it rushes over the fall.
But you don't need to stay a way.
You can go right up to the water's edge, where the view is captivating.
Visit Dillard Mill State Historic Site when you come to the Lesterville area.
Click here for a beautiful picture of this exact view that Ozark Backpacking has made available for wallpaper.
You may also want to view a series of photographs from both the outside and inside of the Mill at RoadLessPhotogrphed.com.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 8:57 am Surprised by Mill & Poppy Too
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
 I was up early today and left my house at 5:30 am. I was in a hurry to get to the Black River.
I came rolling down State Road 49 and for the first time noticed the sign for Dillard Mill State Historic Site.
I can't count how many times I've driven by this place unnoticed.
I hope you don't.
DNR's web page calls this site one of the most picturesque in the state. I can't say I've been to a lot of State Historic Sites, but I think they're right.
I snapped this pic of a red poppy before I went on down the walkway and discovered that the mill itself is painted the same beatiful barn red.
I have a degree in biology, but I know nothing of botany. I'm guessing, truly guessing, that the flower you see in the picture is the Papaver rhoeas.
Click on this link to see some really good pictures by someone who knows what he's doing when it comes to both photography and botany.
Don't drive by this Historic Site on your way to Lesterville. Pull in and spend some time here.
The cascading water is beutiful. I love the sound as it rushes by.
And the mill building looms tall as you approach it.
I was here before it opens (10:00 am) and I still loved this place.
The grounds are beautifully maintained. You'll enjoy this natual space even if you don't like history.
And you'll catch a glimpse of what it was like back in the early 1900's when this mill was used to make flour and livestock feed.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 8:42 am Swim and Camp Now on the Beautiful Black River
Friday, May 26, 2006
As you travel around Lesterville and the Black River area, I know you'll begin to see the new maps that the businesses are starting to distribute to customers.
These maps are the same two maps you'll find here on http://www.experienceblackriver.com/. There's one map that shows the many natural attractions that draw so many to this area.
And there's another that shows you just where to go to get the products, services, and accomodations you'll want to make your visit enjoyable.
I KNOW these maps are out there. Why? Because I delivered many of them myself this morning.
While I was delivering maps this morning, I drove through several campgrounds. And I drove along the river many times.
Guess what I saw? Lots of campers having a wonderful time. And there were floaters, too. I even saw people walking in the water at Riversedge Camprground. I saw people who just got out of the River walking around in their swim suits near the office at Twin Rivers Landing.
I'm telling you this because so many of the campground and float trip operators told me they're getting calls today asking about Memorial Day weekend plans.
News reports on TV last night said the Black River was unsafe and that people weren't allowed to be in it. News reports also said camping was not allowed.
That's true. But it's only true inside the Johnsons Shut-Ins State Park.
Construction work inside the Park makes swimming in the Black River unsafe. But the campgrounds all around the Lesterville area and the float trip operators are open and doing business.
Swimming is allowed. Camping is allowed.
Everywhere I went today, people were enjoying floating, swimming and camping.
Don't miss it. Come on down this weekend and enjoy yourself, just like the many people who are already here.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 2:30 pm Double Cheese Burger In Paradise
Thursday, May 25, 2006
I just arrived in Lesterville. I'm glad to be here. I've been in the car too long today.
On the way over here this afternoon I did two things:
- I stopped at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park. The place is buzzing with activity. The media tour is done. Another tour is about to begin. And tonight MDNR's Parks Division is hosting a public meeting. The Park really looks different. If you haven't seen the boulder field, you've really got to come. It's like nothing you've ever seen before.
- I had lunch over in Centerville. I dropped in at the 21 Diner. Oh my stars! I had a double cheeseburger that was home-made. I can't remember when I've had a cheeseburger that good! I was moaning and groaning as I ate it. It didn't last long. It was fantastic.
When you come to the Black River area, be sure to stop in across the street from 21 Diner at the Centerville Quick Stop. They have EVERYTHING you need, including gas, convenience food, a deli, sodas and beer, fishing tackle, camping equipment, souvenirs, video rentals....and they are THE place in the area where you can get your trail permit to use your four-wheeler on the trails in the Sutton Bluff Recreation Area.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 4:25 pm Placard Marks the Spot
Friday, May 19, 2006
 This marble placard marks the highest surveyed point in the State of Missouri.
I found it in Taum Sauk Mountain State Park on an easy to navigate paved path.
It's just a few short steps from the Ozark Trail, which is definintely NOT paved.
Enjoy.
Don't forget to click on the pic if you want to see it up close.
I'll see you on the Black River.
Posted by Kevin Perry 4:14 Trail Head to the Top, and Mina Sauk, too
Friday, May 19, 2006
 Once you're inside Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, you'll want to start at this trail head like I did. It takes you to:
- the highest point in the State, and
- Mina Sauk Falls
You can read, too. It takes you elsewhere. I simply didn't go there today.
The signs along the way warn you to bring your water. They're right. Don't forget it.
By the way, this sign says Johnson's Shut-Ins is closed.
The Park will open next weekend. But the Shut-Ins themselves won't be open until construction is done.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 4:02 pm A View from the Top of Missouri
Friday, May 19, 2006
 Taum Sauk Mountain State Park features this very attractive overlook area.
From this spot, not far from the highest point in the state, you can look out to the northeast across a 33-degree arc and identify mountain tops and land formations that make this area so unique.
The sun was bright and it was warm on the top of this mountain today. The real heat of summer will be on us soon.
In the meantime, the natural beauty and the magnitude of these mountains are awe-inspiring.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 3:51 pm Sun and Steel
Friday, May 19, 2006
 I like this view, looking down through the structure of the lookout tower at the top of Taum Sauk Mountain in Taum Sauk Mountain State Park.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 3:35 pm 15-Mile View
Friday, May 19, 2006
 One of the guides I read said that on a clear day you can see 15 miles in every direction from the lookout tower in Taum Sauk Mountain State Park.
Click on the thumb-nail to see a bigger shot of what I saw this afternoon.
It's thrilling up there.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 3:27 pm It's Worth the Climb
Friday, May 19, 2006
 When you're in the Black River area, you should plan to visit Taum Sauk Moutain State Park.
I've been there all afternoon.
Here's a picture of the first thing I did there, I climbed the lookout tower.
The padlock on the trapdoor keeps you from going all the way to the top. But the next best thing is definitely worth the climb.
I felt the wind blowing...which is an overly brave way of saying I hung onto the railing when the gusts came up.
The view was amazing.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 3:19 pm Psycho-Ceramics or Ornithology
Friday, May 19, 2006
Lee Ferber, the potter at Peola Valley Pottery, tells me he's been accused of "psycho-ceramics." In other words, some people think he's a crack-pot.
If you don't give a hoot about pottery, you should still go visit Lee and Pam at their shop. Especially if ornithology is your thing.
They do their best to create the ideal conditions for hummingbirds. I saw at least a dozen while I was there today.
But what I really liked was watching an indigo bunting light on the window sill of the building in which Lee mixes his glazes. This incredibly bright blue bird saw its own reflection in the window pane, and it didn't want to leave.
Skip the mugs, jars, tiles and plates, if you like. And just come for the birds.
Oh. I forgot to mention there's a fun little water crossing you have to make just to get here. That alone is worth the trip.
I'll see you on the Black River.
Posted by Kevin Perry 11:03 am Several Days of Rain Makes the Canopy Lush
Friday, May 19, 2006
 Over the past months I've driven down this road many times.
It takes me to some of my favorite places here, including Riversedge Campground, Camp Taum Sauk, Peola Valley Pottery, and Wilderness Lodge Resort.
But it has never looked like this before. (Click on the pic for a closer view.)
Wow!
Meteorolgist I'm not. But when I add it up for myself, I think it's rained over 5 inches here so far in May.
The result is this beautiful canopy over the road. It's literally like driving through a beautiful green tunnel with the rays of sunlight cutting through.
I'll see you on the Black River.
Posted by Kevin Perry 10:28 am A Day Full of Fun in the Black River Area
Friday, May 19, 2006
It's raining in Lesterville this morning. It's just a little bit chilly out. I doubt it will get in my way.
Yesterday, I spent the whole morning floating the Black River in a canoe. I was out early. It was quiet and still and absolutely beautiful. Despite the rain, I'm expecting another fun day here.
I'm sitting at the Black River Ice Cream Parlor right now eating my breakfast. It's great. You can't beat this Western Omlette. It's huge. It's delicious. And it's packed with bacon, ham, cheese, and...well you get the idea.
After breakfast, I'm going back to check out of my room at the Black River Family Motel. (For those of you who can't leave the electronics behind, the Black River Family Motel offers one feature that's sometimes hard to find down here...excellent cell phone signal!)
Then I'm off to visit Lee Ferber at Peola Valley Pottery.
Lee has fired a new batch of mugs using mud from the Black River as a glaze. I'm going by his place to pick one up. You'll want to get one, too. I'll post a picture up here later today so you can see one.
Lee's also got some beatiful tiles and other pieces that commemorate the old bridge that crossed the Black River. It's gone now, the bridge that is, but Lee's art and artifacts capture it beautifully.
My favorite is a rugged image of the old bridge stamped into a hunk of iron they took from the bridge when they tore it down. I use it as a paper weight. It's on my desk right now. You can get one only at Peola Valley Pottery, right here in Lesterville. (Click on the picture above to see a close-up of mine.)
Then I'm off to Lenny's. I've been told so many times that I can't really experience the Black River area if I haven't eaten the famous "river-ready" Black River Sub. BUT...Lenny's only serves the famous BR Sub sandwich during the high camping and float trip season.
FINALLY, today the kitchen opens up for the season at Lenny's. At 11:00 am, to be precise. And I'll be there. I wouldn't miss it.
I was at Lenny's last night and talked to Kathy. She's excited about their new menu. (I'll see if I can post a copy of it up here later.)
And She and Denny are gearing up for their booth at the 25th Annual SEMO bike run here in Lesterville this weekend. Lenny's will have a booth over there featuring Red Bull and their equally famous hot wings.
From there, I'm off to Taum Sauk Mountain State Park. Taum Sauk Mountain State Park has suffered an unfortunate naming problem.
Many of you know that the reservoir that breached and caused flooding in Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park is called Taum Sauk Reservoir.
So, there's been some confusion. Many think that the Taum Sauk Mountain State Park is closed.
It's not. I'm headed there today. I'm excited about it, too. At 1,772 feet, Taum Sauk Mountain is the highest point in Missouri. I'm on my way there.
By the way, Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park is opening to the public next weekend, Saturday, May 27 at 8:00 am. I don't know yet if I'll be there for it. But the excitement and anticipation are irresistable. Visitors to JSI this year will be able to see things they'll never see again, because restoration construction is on-going.
Enough of this talk.
I've got to go.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 8:48 am Bearcat Getaway Gettin' Ready
Thursday, May 18, 2006
 It's one week before Memorial Day holiday. How would you get ready for the many eager visitors who are already chomping at the bit to start the season of camping, float trips, canoeing, and live entertainment on the Black River in Lesterville, MO?
Glee Suntrup, owner of Bearcat Getaway, knows how to prepare her place for your visit. It's a big job. She doesn't do it alone.
I visited her earlier this afternoon, right after lunch. And I ended up spending the whole evening in her beautiful home. She and her husband David Suntrup entertained me with great stories about how they bought and then grew the campground to what it is today.
They are a delightful couple. And you'll enjoy having them as your hosts when you visit.
So what are Glee and her staff doing?
- cleaning and testing all of the rafts and watercraft for the float trips,
- sprucing up all the vehicles,
- ordering all the special menu items for the "theme" weekends that are coming up,
- power washing the shower facilities,
- mowing the grounds,
- creating eight new camp sites!
...and on and on it goes.
The point is, they will be ready for your visit.
Call and reserve your camp site and float trip today. You can't help but have fun.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 7:08 pm Signs of Spring
Thursday, May 11, 2006
 I know you know...it's Spring.
But here's a bit of nature's beauty.
I took this picture at Millstream Gardens Conservation area, too.
It's so beautiful here.
You should jump in your car and drive down to visit this weekend. Why wait?
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry 10:43 am
I'm no Ansel Adams
Thursday, May 11, 2006
 I only had the camera on my cell phone with me.
But I think it's probably the most interesting picture I've ever taken.
It's a tree with a knot tied in it.
Last month I was down at the Tiemann Shut-Ins. You get to them at the Millstream Gardens Conservation Area (item #25 on the Attractions Map).
I was tired. The sun was low. I was walking back from the Shut-Ins to the parking lot--and there it was!
Click on the thumb-nail picture above to see it full-sized.
Enjoy the picture!
Better yet, plan your trip down here now. You can see it for yourself.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry at 10:22 am New Maps!
Thursday, May 11, 2006
We just added two new maps to http://www.experienceblackriver.com/!
I've used draft versions of both of these maps on the ground as I made my way around the Black River area. You won't want to be without them when you come down to visit.
The first is a map of Area Attractions. You can view it and print it here.
You'll see featured the parks, historic sites, and natural wonders that people love to visit.
Don't forget, while you're viewing this map online, you can zoom in for closer views.
Use it today to plan your visit to the Black River area.
The second is a map of Black River Area Businesses. The services they provide are indespensible. So call them today to make your reservations or to handle your needs for food, supplies, lodging or adventure. It's all here.
View and print the Business locator map here.
I'll see you on the Black River.
posted by Kevin Perry at 9:58 am. I Almost Missed Missouri's Grand Canyon
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
 I headed out east of Ironton this evening on 72.
After visiting Millstream Gardens Conservation Area, which by the way was fantastic, on down the road I went to check out the Silver Mines recreation area.
This is part of the Mark Twain National Forest.
I got out of the car and walked along the river. I love the sound of the rushing water!
The sun was getting low by now, so the glare off the water had me squinting.
It was beautiful. I've put up links on our LINKS page so you can find some pictures of the incredible rock formations that are out in and along the St. Francis river.
I was getting ready to leave, after snapping off a few pictures, when drove up in a van with a kayak strapped on talked.
We talked for quite a while. He encouraged me to walk 3 miles up the trail. "It's a beautiful trail," he said. He told me that what I was about to see was called the Grand Canyon of Missouri by many.
He was right. It was fantastic. I glad I didn't miss it.
I'll tell you more about my hike later.
I've never seen anything like this before. Be sure to plan a trip to the Silver Mines Recreation Area when you make your visit to the Black River area.
I'll see you on the River.
posted by Kevin Perry 7:17 pm We're up and running now!
Tuesday, April 4, 2006
We're very happy today to roll out all of functions and features of ExperienceBlackRiver.com.
You'll want to explore the ATTRACTIONS that have been bringing enthusiasts back to the Black River area year after year. They're all still here. And now that the weather is warming up, there's nothing to stop you from enjoying everything this area has to offer.
Please take a look at the EVENTS we've posted. There are some fun activities there you and your family won't want to miss.
While you're checking out what ExperienceBlackRiver.com and the Black River area have to offer, don't forget to take advantage of what our local businesses have to offer. Book a float trip. Reserve your camp space or lodge. Plan your gift buying experience.
Lestervile and Black River area are truly at the center of all of the attractions.
I'll see you on the Black River,
posted by Kevin Perry 9:11 am
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