THANKSGIVING CAMPOUT at BENNETT SPRINGS, hiking and maybe kayaking

Might be freezing cold, might be hot and sunny. Let's go camping! This park is supposed to be just beautiful. Famous for trout fishing. Good hiking trails and kayaking.

If it's warm enough, we can kayak the Niangua River. Hopefully the ticks will be gone and we can hike with our dogs. We will tweek plans when we get closer and know what the weather will be.

This is the weekend BEFORE Thanksgiving, so it shouldn't interfere with your family plans.

It's about a 2.5 hour drive from our area. Near Lebanon, MO off Hwy 44.

CAMPING: The campground is open, electric is on but there is NO WATER OR SHOWERS. Plan accordingly. I'll double check, but don't think they take reservations in the off season. It's first come/first served. Those of us who get there on Thursday can park our cars in adjoining campsites and keep the group together, if possible. Good cell reception, so I can communicate, if anything changes.

Talked to the people at Bennett Springs. Campground 1 is open in winter. No reservations needed, just find a site and park yourself. Bring both cash and plastic, she wasn't sure how you had to pay. $21/night for electric. They do have full hookups with sewer, electric and water for $27/night. Most sites have only electric.

KAYAKING: If we can kayak (depends on temps and water levels) you will need cold weather clothes. River is spring fed and cold, even in summer. Dress to swim, not to paddle. Wetsuit, waterproof pants and waterproof boots. No big bulky sweat shirts or coats, they can absorb water and you will drown. If you don't know what to wear, ask in the comments. When you assume, you make an "ASS of U and ME". ASS-U-ME not!

Niangua is pretty easy, with some minor fun stuff.

HIKING: The trail I would love to do is the Natural Tunnel Trail. It's long, 7.4 miles, but supposed to be beautiful. There are shorter trails, quite a few options. Again, we will tweek details as time gets closer. But plan on at least one hike.

Check the link below for info.

Again, at this time, it looks like we don't need reservations, just go there and pick a spot. Bring cash and plastic, not sure what kind of payment they will want....but the rangers find you.

Bennett Spring State Park | Missouri State Parks (mostateparks.com)