I have always been under the impression that Arkansas was a relatively flat, dusty, state. I have no idea where I got that impression, but it is most certainly not an accurate representation of what the state is really like. Let me first say that upon entering the state, I received a heaping portion of what people in those parts call “Southern Hospitality”. I got a flat crossing the border from Louisiana and two different cars stopped within minutes to offer to help me to change the tire. This was not my first exposure to Southern Hospitality and Manners, nor will it be my last, I’m sure. I appreciate this sort of behavior, because as much as I want to leave my name with people, I want them thinking, “Stephen Dent was, above all else, a nice guy.”
I had planned a few nights camping in the Ozarks, a small mountain range in Arkansas that is known for its under-appreciated beauty. After stocking up on some supplies and sending off some emails for work, I set off into the Greater Ozarks. My days could be summed up thusly: Hot days hiking, cold nights around a fire; Rinse and Repeat. To put it that way makes it sound boring but it was an incredible experience. Wide open skies, beautiful landscape views, and the sort of images you dream about at sunset. Some of it was truly beautiful. I had the opportunity to go fishing in a shallow creek where you could clearly see the water-softened rocks and I probably spent more time just looking at the creek bottom than actually trying to fish. For those wondering, yes, I did catch something! It was a log, but I caught it! When it came time to get back on the road, I was actually quite sad to say goodbye to the Ozarks. It’s a beautiful area that I think everyone should see at some point in their lives.
Stephen Dent 