14 October, Wednesday
Drive to Lake Wappapelo State Park
The drive to Lake Wappapelo State Park was five hours long. Lisa navigated winding country roads at the beginning of the journey, but the final stretch along MO-60 through the Ozarks was scenic. We stopped at Love’s midway for gas and a lunch break, which provided a nice chance to stretch our legs.
Lake Wappapelo State Park
When I was planning our trip, Lake Wappapelo always seemed to have availability on weekends, while other parks were fully booked. This made me a bit apprehensive, but I hoped we would find a good spot. The state park offered several campgrounds, and we were assigned a site at Racoon Ridge.
Racoon Ridge campground sat atop a narrow ridge that jutted into the lake, surrounded by steep, heavily wooded slopes. The campsites were positioned along a tight road that ran the length of the ridge, many of them built up on berms to ensure a level surface. Our site was a gravel pad on one of these narrow berms, which was rough and had been washed out by previous rains. Despite that, we found a spot where we could get the trailer level without much trouble.
Since our campsite was on a berm, we had to navigate a steep slope to reach the picnic table and fire pit. This was especially difficult for Lisa, who has bad knees, and she did slip and fall once. Fortunately, she was only bruised, though she did manage to break the broom she was carrying. The thick trees surrounding our site obstructed most of the view of the lake, but there were occasional glimpses through the branches.
After setting up camp, we decided to drive around the park. Since it was mid-week, the park was nearly empty. We spotted several deer grazing along the road. The campsites were mostly gravel or dirt, with the exception of a few handicap-accessible concrete sites. Many sites were in rough condition and quite small, which could pose a challenge for larger trailers. The park also had a marina and a beach, though both were closed. It’s still puzzling to me why, despite October being considered “in-season,” many park facilities and beaches remain closed during the week.
Evening
When we returned to our campsite, I wrapped up setting up while Lisa began preparing dinner. The sun was setting on the opposite side of the road, so I decided to move our chairs over to an empty campsite nearby. It provided the perfect spot to sit and enjoy the beautiful sunset while we ate.
After dinner, we lit a small fire and relaxed outside, soaking in the peaceful evening. Eventually, we retreated inside, where we were pleasantly surprised by the good cell phone coverage. We settled in and spent the rest of the evening unwinding with Netflix.
15 October, Thursday
Exploring the Ozark National Scenic Riverways
Today, we explored the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, located about an hour away. As the first national park area created to protect a river system, the park holds historical significance. It was established by an Act of Congress in 1964 with the purpose of preserving the Current and Jacks Fork rivers. The park was formally dedicated in 1971. We were especially excited to visit this park as we hoped to catch the best of the fall colors.
Big Spring
Our first stop was the scenic Big Spring, the largest freshwater spring in North America. This massive spring, flowing from the edge of a limestone bluff, releases an astounding 280 million gallons of water daily, which feeds into the Current River just a short distance away. Big Spring is a natural wonder, located about four miles downstream from Van Buren on the southern edge of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.
The spring was breathtaking, with the outflow creating a series of small waterfalls that cascaded into a crystal-clear pond below. The area around the spring was incredibly peaceful, and we spent quite a bit of time walking around taking pictures. There was a trail on the backside of the spring that I ventured along for a while, enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
Before heading to our next stop, we paused to capture the beauty of the area at a picturesque bridge in the park, snapping some photos of the stunning landscape. Our final stop in this area was at the Current River, where we marveled at the clear waters and enjoyed the serenity of the spot.
Rocky Falls
Next, we drove about 40 minutes to our next destination, Rocky Falls. The last few miles of the journey were on a gravel road, which led us to a small parking area. From there, a short trail took us down to the falls.
Rocky Falls is a stunning shut-in with cascading water flowing into a serene pool below. While the water flow wasn’t as heavy as we had hoped, the falls were still incredibly beautiful. The surrounding landscape, with moss-covered rocks and trees framing the falls, added to its charm.
When we first arrived, there were a few other visitors, but after a short while, we were lucky enough to have the entire falls to ourselves. It was a peaceful and magical experience, allowing us to fully take in the beauty of the falls without distraction. We spent some time sitting by the pool, enjoying the tranquil sounds of the water and the surrounding nature. The quiet solitude made it feel like we had stumbled upon a hidden gem.
We took lots of pictures and then set up our chairs on a gravel bar facing the falls for lunch. It was not long before more people arrived, but we got many comments about our great lunch spot.
After lunch, I crawled around on the falls for a little while before we left to go see the Devil’s Well, which was about an hour away.
Devil’s Well
The drive to Devil’s Well was a bit challenging, with the last 1.5 miles of the road being very steep and rough. However, when we finally reached the parking area, we were greeted by a nice day-use area complete with several picnic tables and a small pond, which added to the peacefulness of the place.
A short, easy path led us to the sinkhole, where several informational kiosks provided details about the formation and exploration of the sinkhole and its underground lake. The Devil’s Well was formed when the roof of a massive cavern containing an underground lake collapsed, creating a large sinkhole with a narrow opening at the bottom. We could peer down 100 feet from here to glimpse the mysterious lake below.
To get a closer look, we descended a “spiral” staircase that led down to the bottom of the sinkhole. The stairs were a little slippery from the water dripping into the sinkhole, creating small waterfalls as we carefully descended. At the base was a hole covered by steel mesh, and a motion-activated light illuminated the shimmering underground lake, just enough for us to make out the water below.
While I was a bit disappointed that we couldn’t get a better view of the lake, the experience was still incredibly fascinating. The concept of an underground lake trapped inside a collapsed cavern added a sense of mystery to the place, and it was one of those rare spots that made us feel like we had stumbled upon something truly unique. It was a place of quiet wonder that left us in awe of the natural world.
The last 1.5 miles of the road were very steep and rough. We saw a nice day-use area with several picnic tables and a small pond when we got to the parking area. A short path took us to the sinkhole, where several information kiosks were located describing the formation and exploration of the sinkhole and underground lake.
The Devil’s Well was formed when the roof of a huge cavern that contained an underground lake collapsed. The result was a large sinkhole with an opening in the bottom through which we could view the lake 100 feet below.
A “spiral” staircase took us to the bottom of the sinkhole, where a steel mesh covered a hole. Water dripped into the sinkhole, so we had to avoid little waterfalls as we descended the stairs. A motion-detection light in the hole allowed us to see the shimmering lake below.
I was a little disappointed that this was the most we would be able to see the underground lake, but it was still very fascinating.
Echo Bluff State Park
Since we passed Echo Bluff State Park on our way to Devil’s Well, we decided to stop by and explore the park on our way back south toward Alley Springs.
Echo Bluff is Missouri’s newest state park and has earned a reputation as the “Cadillac” of the state park system. I had heard of the park’s previous life as Camp Zoe, a private property that hosted rock concerts and festivals. However, the camp was confiscated by the federal government in 2010 due to issues with drug sales and use, and the land was eventually sold to the state. The state then invested $52 million in transforming the property, opening Echo Bluff State Park in 2016.
From the moment we entered, it was clear that this park was special. Everything felt new and well-maintained. The entrance featured a beautiful sign, and all the internal roads were freshly paved. As we drove down a forested road, we suddenly emerged into a large, open area that seemed out of place among the natural surroundings. This area contained large, modern cabins, a sizable RV camping area, and a large lodge. I was initially impressed by the facilities, but the RV camping area was a bit of a letdown—it was completely treeless and resembled a typical private RV park rather than a serene state park campground.
The park’s natural beauty was still apparent, though. The central feature of Echo Bluff was the striking rocky bluffs that overlooked Sinking Creek on the opposite side of the river. Along the creek were many group shelters and picnic tables, making it a pleasant spot to gather or relax. Despite the lack of trees in the open areas, the park was encircled by the lush hills and forests of the Ozarks, creating a beautiful backdrop.
We drove to a large group shelter on a bluff on the other side of the creek. The views from this vantage point were breathtaking, offering a panoramic look at the surrounding landscape. Though the park was said to have wild horses, we didn’t manage to spot any, but we did see plenty of signs of their presence in the form of numerous piles of horse manure scattered throughout the area. It was a reminder of the untamed side of the park and added a bit of charm to the already beautiful setting.
Overall, Echo Bluff State Park felt like a blend of modern amenities and natural beauty, offering a unique mix of relaxation and adventure. While the development may not have been as rustic as some might expect from a state park, it was an impressive, well-designed space for visitors to enjoy.
Alley Spring and Mill
After leaving Echo Bluff State Park, we continued our journey to the Alley Spring and Mill National Historic Site near Eminence. This site is home to a beautifully preserved 1894 grist mill beside the seventh-largest spring in Missouri, making it a popular destination for those interested in history and natural beauty.
We began our visit by exploring the mill’s first floor, which was open to the public. With its rustic charm and historical significance, the mill was a fascinating glimpse into the past, showcasing the machinery and tools that powered the operation over a century ago. It was easy to imagine this mill’s importance to the local community when it was in full operation.
After touring the mill, we wandered around the spring itself. The crystal-clear waters of Alley Spring were incredibly picturesque, creating a serene atmosphere that was perfect for reflection and photography. We then set out on the Alley Spring Mill Loop Trail, which looped around the spring-fed pond. The trail provided us with various vantage points of the mill, offering a chance to capture the structure against the backdrop of the tranquil waters. Along the way, we also encountered fascinating rock cliffs shaped over time by the relentless flow of water. Some of the cliffs had natural holes and caves carved into them, adding to the allure of the landscape.
We then explored a small, historic one-room school building that was once used by the local community. It was simple yet charming and gave us insight into the area’s educational history. The building, with its basic furniture and old-fashioned chalkboard, felt like stepping back in time.
As the day wore on and it began to get late, we decided it was time to head home. The drive back would take about two hours, and we wanted to ensure we made it before dark. Before leaving, I stopped by the park’s visitor center to get our National Park Passport stamped, adding another memorable experience to our collection.
Our visit to Alley Spring and Mill was a perfect way to end the day’s exploration, offering a blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and peaceful serenity.
Evening
It was almost dark when we got back to our campsite. I made another small fire while Lisa cooked dinner. We ate outside and enjoyed the small fire until it burned out. We then went inside and watched Netflix before heading to bed.
16 October, Friday
Today, we decided to check out some of the tourist attractions around Cape Girardeau.
Mingo Wildlife Refuge Area
On our way to Cape Girardeau, we made a spontaneous stop at an information kiosk we noticed alongside the road, and to our surprise, we found ourselves at the entrance to the Mingo Wildlife Refuge Area. The kiosk displayed a map highlighting a 7-mile scenic drive called the Red Mill Drive, which immediately piqued our interest. With no set schedule, we decided to take the drive and explore the area.
The landscape was incredibly marshy and alive, with various birds calling out, creating a dynamic and peaceful atmosphere. We stopped multiple times, turning off the truck to sit in silence and absorb the natural sounds. The area was teeming with wildlife, and it was easy to imagine how vital this refuge is for the species that call it home.
The Mingo Wildlife Refuge Area is designed to manage flooding and mimic the natural conditions when the Mississippi River once flowed through the region. The many canals in the area are part of a carefully engineered system to help preserve the bottomland hardwood forests and wetlands that once spanned much of the Mississippi River floodplain. This water management system promotes the growth of diverse plant life, creating an ideal habitat for various species.
Mingo is home to wildlife, including river otters, bowfins, and hairy-lip ferns. It is also a crucial wintering spot for migratory waterfowl. As we drove along the scenic route, we kept our eyes peeled for sightings of the park’s famed inhabitants, including nesting bald eagles. The refuge also provides a critical sanctuary for species such as swamp rabbits, wood ducks, migrating monarch butterflies, and more.
As the largest remaining tract of bottomland hardwood forest in Missouri, Mingo Wildlife Refuge plays an essential role in preserving the biological integrity of the region. Its ecosystem helps maintain water and air quality, and its efforts to control invasive species—such as feral hogs, swamp rats, and Sericea lespedeza—are vital for the local environment’s health. Witnessing such an undisturbed slice of nature preserved for generations to come was awe-inspiring. We left Mingo feeling rejuvenated, having connected with nature in a way that is becoming increasingly rare.
Cape Girardeau – World’s Largest Fountain Cup
Our first stop in Cape Girardeau was a quirky roadside attraction we read about on RoadsideAmerica: the world’s largest fountain cup. Standing an impressive 15 feet tall, this oversized metal cup is outside a local convenience store. It’s not just for show; it made headlines when it set a record on August 20, 2017, by holding a staggering 4,730 gallons of lemonade. This monumental feat earned it a place in the record books, and naturally, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to see it for ourselves.
The giant cup was a fun sight, especially with its colorful, attention-grabbing design. We snapped a few photos to commemorate the moment and took a quick break in the store’s restrooms before continuing on our journey. With our curiosity about the world’s largest fountain cup satisfied, we headed towards the downtown area of Cape Girardeau to explore more of what the city had to offer.
Fort D – Civil War History in Cape Girardeau
Our next stop was Fort D, a historical site that marks the location of the only remaining Civil War fort out of the four originally built by Union troops to protect Cape Girardeau from Confederate attacks. The fort’s earthwork walls have withstood the test of time, and they still stand proudly today, providing visitors with a glimpse of the past.
Throughout the grounds, informative kiosks are sharing the story of the fort’s role during the Civil War, adding context to the impressive earthworks and providing insight into the challenges the soldiers stationed here face. One notable feature of the site is a limestone building constructed in 1937 as part of a federal WPA project. This building once served as a museum, but after falling into disrepair, it was eventually restored by the American Legion. Unfortunately, the museum is no longer open to the public, leaving the building’s exterior as a historical artifact.
Another fascinating aspect of the fort is the Quaker gun display. A Quaker gun is not a real cannon but a deceptive wooden log, typically painted black, intended to fool the enemy into believing there was a cannon in place when there wasn’t. The term “Quaker gun” originates from the Quakers, a religious group known for their opposition to war and violence, highlighting the use of subterfuge as a clever wartime tactic.
The fort’s rich history and the stories it tells offer a unique perspective on the Civil War’s impact on Cape Girardeau, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in the region’s military past.
Cape Girardeau Downtown – Historic Sights and Scenic Views
Just a couple of blocks from Fort D, we found ourselves in Cape Girardeau’s charming historic downtown area, home to a blend of history, culture, and scenic views.
Our first stop was the Red House Interpretive Center, a recreated trading post and the home of the city’s founder. Though the center was closed during our visit, we took the opportunity to explore the informative kiosks and the lovely garden surrounding the house. The Red House, built on the site where the town’s earliest settlers began their lives in the area, offers a glimpse into the city’s beginnings.
Across the street, we admired the impressive St. Vincent’s Catholic Church, an architectural gem in the heart of downtown. While we didn’t tour the church, its historic beauty was evident as we paused to appreciate its intricate exterior design.
From there, we went to the city’s iconic floodwalls, a prominent feature of Cape Girardeau. One wall section is known as the Wall of Fame, adorned with murals of famous Missourians. These larger-than-life portraits highlight the contributions of notable figures from the state’s history. The rest of the floodwalls are part of a series of murals known as Missouri Tales, depicting a wide range of historical scenes that tell the story of the state’s rich heritage.
We spent some time strolling along the floodwalls, enjoying the murals and learning more about the region’s past. As we walked along the Mississippi River side, we noticed that only one of the walls here was painted, its murals faded by time, but still a testament to the river’s power.
Finally, we took a moment to relax on a bench facing the river, where we watched barges slowly moving downstream, taking in the peaceful rhythm of the water. The blend of history, art, and natural beauty made for a peaceful and reflective end to our exploration of Cape Girardeau’s downtown area.
Cape Rock Park – Scenic Lunch with a Historic View
After a stroll downtown, we drove just three miles to Cape Rock Park, a serene spot that holds historical significance. The park marks the original site of a trading post established by Ensign Girardot, after whom the city is named.
As we arrived, we found a quiet bench atop a large mound that offered a stunning view of the Mississippi River. The cool weather didn’t detract from the experience; we made ourselves comfortable and enjoyed our lunch while soaking in the panoramic view of the river stretching out before us. The peaceful atmosphere and the historical backdrop of the site made it the perfect spot to take a break and reflect on the journey so far.
The park’s natural beauty and rich history gave us a sense of connection to the past, and we left with a renewed appreciation for the area’s role in the region’s early trade history.
Veterans Park – A Moment of Reflection
As we were leaving town, we made a brief stop at Veterans Park, a peaceful tribute to those who have served in the military. One of the standout features of the park was a giant painted rock, which added a unique and colorful touch to the landscape. Alongside the rock, we found a heartfelt memorial dedicated to police officers, honoring their bravery and sacrifice.
I always find it meaningful to pause at these veterans’ parks, reflecting on the service and sacrifice of those who have given so much to our country. It’s a simple yet powerful way to pay respects to the fallen and remind ourselves of the freedom we often take for granted. This stop added a somber yet uplifting note to our day, as we left with a sense of gratitude and appreciation for the sacrifices made by so many.
Bollinger Mill State Historic Site – A Step Back in Time
Our next stop brought us to the Bollinger Mill State Historic Site, a charming piece of history along the Upper Whitewater Creek in Burfordville. The mill, originally built in 1800 by George Bollinger, has seen several reconstructions over the years, and today it stands restored to its 1867 version. The mill exudes a timeless character, blending the rustic beauty of the surrounding landscape with its rich heritage.
We began our visit by exploring the outside of the mill, taking in the picturesque views of the creek and the well-preserved structure. We discovered a cozy gift shop and a fascinating display of milling equipment on the ground floor. One of the highlights was a friendly cat lounging on the shelves, seemingly enjoying its role as the unofficial greeter of visitors. We also had the opportunity to venture into the basement, where we watched the water flow through the mill’s mechanisms, bringing the historic operation to life.
Just steps away from the mill stood the historic 1868 Burfordville Covered Bridge, one of only four remaining covered bridges in Missouri—and the oldest among them. Walking across the bridge was like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse of the craftsmanship and ingenuity of the past. We spent some time lingering around the bridge and the mill, appreciating the serene beauty and the stories these structures hold.
After a satisfying exploration of this historic site, we returned to the campground, reflecting on the timeless charm of the Bollinger Mill and its surroundings.
Bettis Ford and Old Greenville – Uncovering Hidden History
On our way back to the campsite along MO-67, we made an impromptu stop at an exit sign pointing to nearby historical sites, eager to uncover more of the area’s rich past.
Our first stop took us to a set of monuments and information kiosks along the St. Francis River, where we learned that as early as 1808, settlers used to ford the river at this spot via a ferry owned by Elijah Bettis. The story unfolded further as we discovered the connection to the infamous Trail of Tears, a dark chapter in American history. In 1838, over 1,100 Cherokees, led by John Benge, passed through this area as part of their forced relocation. This group was one of 13 that had to endure the heart-wrenching journey under the Indian Removal Act of 1830. The markers poignantly detailed this forced migration’s hardships and lasting impact.
We then wandered over to the Greenville Recreation Area, developed around Old Greenville’s remnants. This once-thriving town was relocated about two miles north in the 1940s when the Wappapelo Dam was constructed. Some buildings were moved, but many others were razed, leaving only streets and foundations as silent witnesses to the town’s past. The ruins are now designated as a National Historic Site, and we enjoyed walking through the remains with the help of informative kiosks that offered a self-guided tour.
It was getting late, so we only read a few kiosks, but the sense of history was tangible. One poignant reminder of the area’s vulnerability was the flood markings we spotted on the underside of a nearby bridge. These marks chronicled the high water levels that had repeatedly plagued the area until the dam’s construction, highlighting the challenges the region had faced before being reshaped by human intervention.
This unexpected stop added a deeper layer to our journey, offering a glimpse into the past that most travelers would miss, and we left the area with a greater appreciation for the history of this often-overlooked part of Missouri.
17 October, Saturday
Today, we decided to check out some of the remaining attractions in the area while taking a nice drive through the countryside.
Chaonia Landing – A Journey into the Quirky World of Muffler Men
We’ve always had a soft spot on our travels for the unique “muffler man” statues that dot the landscape. These towering fiberglass figures, typically standing between 14 and 25 feet tall, are iconic Americana. Originally, they often held oversized car mufflers, but over time, the statues have morphed into all kinds of characters—animals, dinosaurs, cowboys, Indians, and more. Many of these figures were repainted and repurposed when businesses closed or changed ownership, taking on new identities or getting relocated to new homes. Between 1962 and 1976, International Fiberglass of Venice, California, was responsible for crafting thousands of these memorable roadside statues.
One such figure, Chief Wappalese, stood just 10 minutes from our campsite at Chaonia Landing, a charming bar and restaurant alongside Wappapelo Lake. This 22-foot-tall muffler man has a fascinating history. Originally known as Chief Sagamore, it first stood outside the War Drum restaurant in Sikeston. Later, it went to the Southeast Missouri State University football stadium in Cape Girardeau, where it stood as a mascot until 1991. During that year, a national movement to remove Native American symbols from sports teams prompted its removal. After being stored for several years, the statue was purchased and relocated to its current home at Chaonia Landing.
Situated on a large deck overlooking Wappapelo Lake, the statue was well-maintained by the new owners and looked as striking as ever. Its position by the lake added a quirky charm to the otherwise peaceful setting, offering a perfect photo opportunity. We enjoyed the unusual sight, allowing us to reflect on how these larger-than-life figures continue to play a role in local history and culture, all while standing watch over the scenic beauty of the lake.
Lake Wappapelo Dam – A Historical and Scenic Stop
After leaving Chaonia Landing, we made our way to the Lake Wappapelo Dam, an engineering marvel that holds a significant place in the area’s history.
The Lake Wappapelo Dam is a rolled earth dam with a concrete outlet structure and a limited-use concrete spillway. Construction on the dam began in 1938 and was completed in 1941, marking a critical development in the area’s flood control and water management efforts. The dam has faced a few challenges over the years, with its spillway being overtopped during significant flood events in 1945, 2011, and 2017. The 2011 flood was the most severe, with the spillway being overtopped for two weeks. This caused extensive erosion downstream, creating some fascinating rock formations that we couldn’t help but admire.
On the lakeside of the spillway, the area has been transformed into a recreational hub with well-maintained playgrounds and picnic shelters. These upgrades, likely made in response to past flooding events, have turned the area into a welcoming spot for families and visitors. We even saw a wedding being set up in one of the shelters, which added a lovely, serene touch to the surroundings.
Our first stop was at the observation platform above the spillway, where we had an excellent view of the downstream erosion area and the rock formations that had been shaped by years of water flow. The platform provided an informative perspective on the power of the river and the dam’s role in controlling it. Afterward, we took a stroll through the outlet park, which offered scenic views of the lake and surrounding landscape.
On our way out, we drove through some of the Corps of Engineers campgrounds near the dam. These well-kept campgrounds offered spacious sites and beautiful views of the water, making them a great option for those looking to camp by the lake. The entire visit provided a nice mix of history, natural beauty, and recreation, offering something for everyone—from curious travelers to nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful relaxing spot.
Clearwater Lake – A Scenic Reservoir with a Purpose
After leaving the Lake Wappapelo Dam, we continued our journey to Clearwater Lake, a serene reservoir nestled along the Black River near Piedmont, Missouri. Clearwater Lake was constructed primarily for flood control in the White and Lower Mississippi River Basins, which is vital in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding areas from potential flooding. The lake is renowned for its clear, spring-fed waters, which provide a refreshing and picturesque setting for visitors. The name “Clearwater” is a fitting tribute to its pristine, transparent water, making it a popular destination for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation.
On our way to Clearwater Lake, we made a brief stop at a quirky roadside park that offered scenic views of a valley. Unfortunately, the dense and towering trees obstructed our ability to fully appreciate the vista, leaving us only glimpses of the valley below. Despite the limited visibility, it was still a charming spot to pause for a moment and stretch our legs before continuing to the lake.
When we finally arrived at Clearwater Lake, we were greeted by its tranquil beauty. The surrounding forests and rolling hills created a peaceful backdrop for a relaxing afternoon. Whether you’re drawn to the lake for water activities, wildlife watching, or to enjoy nature, Clearwater Lake offers an inviting escape from the hustle and bustle.
Clearwater Lake – Scenic Drive and Vintage Travel Trailer Rally
As we approached Clearwater Lake, we drove downstream from the dam along a road that closely followed the meandering Black River. The route offered some truly picturesque views of the surrounding landscape, with lush trees and gentle river bends creating a peaceful and scenic drive.
When we reached the dam, we decided to drive through the COE (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers) River Road campground just below the dam. It was the weekend, and the campground was bustling with activity, filled with trailers of all sizes. To our surprise, we noticed a large banner announcing a vintage travel trailer rally taking place there. Intrigued, we decided to drive around and check out the rally. We enjoyed admiring the dozen or so beautifully restored and meticulously cared-for vintage trailers, each one with its unique charm and character. The rally provided a fascinating glimpse into the past, showcasing some stunning examples of classic travel trailers.
After soaking in the sights of the rally, we parked near the dam outlet and took a brief stroll around the area. The peaceful atmosphere by the water, combined with the calming sounds of the river, made for a relaxing stop. The Clearwater Lake area offered a perfect blend of scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, and a delightful surprise in the form of the vintage trailer rally.
Clearwater Lake – Dam Overlook and Lake Low Water Levels
After leaving the bustling campground, we made our way up the steep incline to the top of the Clearwater Lake Dam. The drive across the dam was a thrilling experience, as the 114-foot-high structure seemed even more imposing with the lake water levels so low. In fact, the water didn’t even reach the bottom of the dam, which made its towering presence even more dramatic.
We stopped at an overlook near the Corps of Engineer Administrative Offices, with a panoramic view of the lake. The landscape was peaceful, with the water’s surface seeming more like a series of exposed shores and rocky beds rather than the vast body of water it usually is. Clearwater Lake is renowned for being a beautiful wilderness lake, partly because there are no private boat docks, preserving its natural, serene beauty. Normally, the lake spans about 1,630 surface acres, but during periods of maximum flood, it can expand dramatically, covering up to 10,350 surface acres—over six times its normal size.
Given the low water level, I assumed we were witnessing the lake at its conservation pool size, which gives the area a more rugged, untouched feel. Despite the low water, the grandeur of the lake and its surrounding wilderness was still palpable, making it a remarkable sight.
Piedmont Park – Steep Slopes and Lunch by the Lake
We decided to check out the boat launch and beach area on the high ridges across from the dam, so we drove over to Piedmont Park, a Corps of Engineers area. The drive-in was quite challenging, as the road was steep and full of sharp curves. Once we entered the park, we quickly realized that the entire area was built on a steep slope. The campground appeared empty, with only the boat launch area looking operational, as we didn’t see any campers around.
For lunch, we went to a picnic shelter that offered a beautiful view of Clearwater Lake. The shelter was positioned perfectly to look out over the lake, but the weather was less than ideal. The wind was biting cold, and despite the stunning view, we didn’t stay long to enjoy our meal.
Nearby, we saw a sign that showed the high-water mark from 2002. It was a shocking contrast to the lake’s current state, as the water level was far below the usual mark, making the lake appear much smaller and the landscape around it much steeper. We quickly finished our lunch, and with the cold wind pushing us to move on, we decided to explore the area further.
Exploring the Forest Roads – Unexpected Adventure
As we left Piedmont Park, I decided to push our adventure further by continuing down the steep, winding road that had brought us into the park. To my surprise, the road quickly veered deeper into the forest, and soon, we found ourselves on some rough, unpaved dirt tracks. The road conditions were challenging, and turning around would have been a hassle, so we just decided to press on, enjoying the isolation and serenity of the forest.
Without cell phone coverage, I couldn’t rely on Google Maps, but my truck’s GPS indicated we were on CR-352. We kept going, uncertain of what lay ahead, until we encountered a group of ATVs. They must have wondered what we were doing so far back in the woods, but we gave them a friendly wave and continued.
After about an hour of winding through the forest, the road finally led us to a paved route, and we knew it was time to head back to the campground. While the detour was unexpected, the journey through the quiet woods felt like a refreshing escape, adding a bit of adventure to our day.
Allison Cemetery Trail – A Scenic Hike with Hidden History
Once we returned to the campground, I decided to stretch my legs by hiking on the Allison Cemetery Trail. This 2.5-mile trail promised scenic views of the lake and led to the site of an old, historic cemetery. The path was mostly easy to follow, though it had been somewhat overrun by nature. Several fallen trees had collapsed across the trail, requiring me to climb over or navigate around them, which added a bit of a challenge.
During the hike, I paused by the water to watch a fishing boat skillfully maneuver a large floating hunting blind into place. It was fascinating to see how these blinds were used, and I counted at least half a dozen scattered across the lake. The peaceful scene, coupled with the calm of the forest and the distant sounds of nature, made for a perfect outdoor moment as I took in the area’s tranquil beauty.
Evening
When I returned, Lisa cooked dinner, and I started a fire. After dinner, we decided to get the trailer hooked up to the truck, and the slide pulled in because the forecast for the next day called for rain starting early in the morning.
18 October, Sunday
Departure Day – A Smooth and Swift Exit
It was a relief to wake up to clear skies, with no rain in sight, which was a nice change.
However, during the showers, we ran out of fresh water. Lisa barely had enough to finish hers, and I decided to skip mine. She was lucky she didn’t have a head full of shampoo then—though I’m sure she would’ve managed! When I filled the fresh water tank earlier, I relied on the gauges to tell me when it was full rather than letting it overflow as I usually do. In hindsight, I realized I should have topped it off for longer stays, like our four-night stop, until it overflowed to ensure we had enough.
Since it was a Sunday, I was concerned about getting stuck behind weekend campers at the dump station. However, we had hooked up the trailer to the truck the night before and packed up quickly, so we made it to the dump by 8:15 am. We were lucky—there was a Class A rig at the station when we arrived, but they pulled out just as we arrived. It didn’t take long to take care of everything, and by 9 am, we were already on the road, feeling ahead of the game.