Oklahoma trip

Been in Texas for 5 years, and all throughout i had been thinking that the plains are totally boring, not very green, not worthwhile for a camping/hiking/trekking trip. However a friend advised me that the neighboring states of Oklahoma and Arkansas may have the stuff i am looking for.

Yes Indeed. Oklahoma is beautiful. And i have already made two camping / trekking trips to Oklahoma/Arkansas. My destination - Ouchita National Forest / Winding Stairs National Recreational Area - on both occasions.

First time was during the July 4th weekend with my dear friend. He was all geared up for a great camping trip. We went to the southern part of the Ouchitas and camped near the Beavers Bend State park. Frankly i hated the place. It was never far from civilization and it was never picturesque. Too many people to spoil the night. However we cooked great food of course after learning the hard way how to light the charcoal (not self igniting).

We did some Kayaking along the Mountain Fork river. That was fun, and totally different from my first Kayaking trip. This time we really had to find our way through the boulders. Heavy traffic also made it more challenging. I toppled twice and lost my floaters - thanks to my complacency. But soon got a hang of it. We then did a short hike and soon it was evening. We drove north a bit and found a perfect camping spot in the Winding stairs Rec Area along a mountain slope. That night was windy and awesome. We however had to quickly pack our tents next morning as it was pouring.

The second time I went to the place with my friend, his wife and my cousin Sambar during the Labor day weekend. We camped in the same area. This time it was even better. You could see the Milky way at night (I had never noticed that before). After spotting several shooting stars we went off to sleep. Next day we did a 10 mile hike, though a good walk it lacked any amazing vista points. Then we drove along the winding Talimena Scenic Drive to Mena, AK. Its a drivers paradise. Definitely a Fall color spot.

The trip was great. Of course thanks to my friend and his wife for taking care of dinner!! And pats to those who often forget the tea bags !!