Major flooding of the Gasconade River in 2013, 2015, and 2017 led to a tough decision for the Missouri Department of Conservation. Constant repairs and rebuilding of the public access at Jerome was no longer practical. It was time to permanently close the Jerome Access because keeping it open was unsafe, and it wasn’t a…
I know I can be pretty goofy. I get a kick out of childish and kitschy things despite pushing the BIG 50. So, imagine my delight when billboards started popping up along I-44 several years ago for the “World’s Largest Rocker” just outside of Cuba, Mo., in Fanning. Once upon a time, Danny Sanazaro wanted…
I have an appreciation for author Bill Bryson’s humor and wit. When he claimed something was “so bad, it was worth more than we paid” in his novel In a Sunburned Country, it really made me chuckle. The truth is that I am right there with him. There are so many places in America that…
The Gasconade River begins its 280-mile journey in the Missouri Ozarks near Hartville to where it unites with the Missouri River near the appropriately-named town of Gasconade. Floaters, fishermen, stargazers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and walks of life enjoy it year-round. While there are many ways to access this river, I have always…
I am more of a cat person, but as an alumni of the University of Central Missouri I know quite a bit about one incredibly special dog. During the fall semester of my freshman year I had to take a short course that was supposed to help me succeed in college. Our instructor thought it…
It’s a fact that colder winters can help cut down the tick population. Unfortunately, this past winter in Missouri was a bust when it came to the right conditions for ticks to be a bit less plentiful. Personally, I started seeing ticks out and about in March this year! My daughter even found one on…
During a recent visit with my grandma, she made an observation about the articles I write for River Hills Traveler. Apparently, I tend to mention food at some point. Well, as usual, she isn’t wrong. So, why not take this opportunity to share one of my favorite places to visit with River Hills Traveler readers?…
From talented glass artisans to the owners of my daughter’s favorite Mexican restaurant and everything in between, if I can put my dollars into the pockets of those who own and operate their own businesses, you can bet I will do so. In my life I have seen the impact not supporting local businesses can…
