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General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: twowings on May 09, 2016, 12:23:42 PM

Title: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: twowings on May 09, 2016, 12:23:42 PM
Riding to Ponca, AR to Lost Valley State Park this weekend to camp, hike, swim(maybe), and apply liquid brain therapy. Campground will most likely be Steel Creek or Kyle's Landing on the Upper Buffalo River. (I understand that Lost Valley State Park is now a day-use facility only)

Ponca, AR is located near the junction of AR-43 and AR-74 highways in North Central Arkansas.

There are motels nearby in Jasper, AR and Harrison, AR.

PM twowings for my cell number. (cell service can be iffy in the Ponca area)

Chris
twowings@outlook.com

Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: rocker59 on May 09, 2016, 12:27:15 PM
I'll be in Little Rock this weekend, otherwise it sounds like good fun.

Be sure and grab lunch at Low Gap Cafe.
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 09, 2016, 12:46:17 PM
I'll be in Little Rock this weekend, otherwise it sounds like good fun.

Be sure and grab lunch at Low Gap Cafe.

There WILL be Low Gap meals in the future!
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 09, 2016, 12:47:20 PM
I'm there DoOd!
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Michael D on May 09, 2016, 01:48:35 PM
Hot Diggitty!  I've been needing some curvy roads to balance out the tread on my squared off rear tire.  Should be there Saturday, by mid morning to help supervise the tall tales being told and the shenanigans that most always occur.  Thanks for the heads up, twowings!     
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: oldbike54 on May 09, 2016, 01:52:15 PM
 Uh oh , Mike D is showing up , hide your young folks  :grin:

 Dusty
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 09, 2016, 02:03:44 PM
If you have gold teeth DON'T SMILE!
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: MGrego on May 09, 2016, 02:49:46 PM
I love that area !!   Have fun !!
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: rocker59 on May 09, 2016, 03:08:18 PM
  Campground will most likely be Steel Creek or Kyle's Landing on the Upper Buffalo River. 
Chris
twowings@outlook.com

Chris,

Have you been to Kyle's?  The reason I ask is that it's a long way down a rough gravel road.  About 2.5 miles, or so...  Kyles will be much less crowded than Steel Creek, the road in being the reason.

Steel Creek access is paved from HWY 74 down to the campground road, so there is only about a 1/2 mile of gravel, and it's well maintained.  However, it will be much more crowded.

Let me know which you choose, and if you'll be eating lunch at Low Gap on Sat or Sun.  If my Little Rock plans cancel, I may ride over and hang out with you guys.
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: twowings on May 09, 2016, 04:15:18 PM
I did see that road was noted steep and 'unimproved' on a Buffalo River Campgrounds map...Steel Creek is my first choice but have no idea how crowded it could get...this time of year could see some rain and I wouldn't want to slip 'n' slide trying to get out of Kyle's...Dusty HAS offered to help 'scramblerize' the Norge, but I dunno  :boozing:

Will probably be eating at Low Gap at least twice over the weekend...I can PM you my cell...love to have you show up!
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 09, 2016, 04:17:40 PM
I'll be on the Tiger, I can tow you fellers out!  :bike-037:
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: oldbike54 on May 09, 2016, 04:39:57 PM
 Just don't let Doug lead , he'll have us riding in the creek  :shocked: :laugh:

 Dusty
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 09, 2016, 07:40:14 PM
Just don't let Doug lead , he'll have us riding in the creek  :shocked: :laugh:

 Dusty

With his feet on the boards, never dab!
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 09, 2016, 07:42:34 PM
Does anybody know how to get hold 'ta (ozarkian content) Rudy R?
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: oldbike54 on May 09, 2016, 08:01:12 PM
Does anybody know how to get hold 'ta (ozarkian content) Rudy R?

 Uh , a PM maybe ????

 Dusty
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: oldbike54 on May 09, 2016, 08:03:23 PM
 Don't forget Wes .

 Dusty










Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 09, 2016, 08:52:19 PM
Check Rudy and Wes
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: LowRyter on May 09, 2016, 09:00:53 PM
I'd rather be in a room that in a tent.  But I'd like to go.
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: twowings on May 09, 2016, 09:11:32 PM
Give one of us a shout when you get settled and we can meet up...
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: LowRyter on May 09, 2016, 09:22:44 PM
not sure I can find any place close by.  The Hub?  Jasper?  Harrison? 

Perhaps too far away for any realistic trip.  I'll call the Hub and see if there are any rooms left, perhaps we can double up?  (looks like rain)
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: rocker59 on May 09, 2016, 09:29:55 PM
Lots of cabins in the area. Google the word cabins and the words Steele Creek, Mount Sherman, or kyle's landing.
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Michael D on May 10, 2016, 08:30:53 AM
Does anybody know how to get hold 'ta (ozarkian content) Rudy R?

John, I've got Rudy's and Wes's emails...........


Rudy Morgan
srmorgan@centurytel.net

Wesley Stephens V 7 Cafe Classic
wesleystephens66@gmail.com

Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 10, 2016, 09:12:50 AM
John, I've got Rudy's and Wes's emails...........


Rudy Morgan
srmorgan@centurytel.net

Wesley Stephens V 7 Cafe Classic
wesleystephens66@gmail.com

Thanks Mike, I'm on it!    js
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 11, 2016, 07:20:31 PM

(http://thumb.ibb.co/cCK2ov/image.jpg) (http://ibb.co/cCK2ov)

Just about ready!
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Michael D on May 11, 2016, 07:46:58 PM
Stuff, gotta have that comfort stuff.    :grin:    Has an exact location been decided or will that happen after the places are scoped out? 
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 11, 2016, 07:53:04 PM
Dusty and two wings are are scouting out the LZ Thursday night somewhere near Ponca. I'm leaving spring patch fri 1800 we'll have the phones on. When do you leave t town?
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: twowings on May 11, 2016, 07:55:08 PM

(http://thumb.ibb.co/cJoj1F/buff_map_cc.jpg) (http://ibb.co/cJoj1F)
I'm leaving tomorrow to secure two sites (which will accommodate 6 tents) at Steel Creek or Kirby's Landing...those campgrounds are on a first come, first served basis...if they are not suitable, then going to work my way downstream...cell service just sucks in that part of the country, so communications might be hit-or-miss...planning to eat at Low Gap at least a couple of times...the other three close-by campgrounds are Erbie, Ozark, and Pruitt Landing...

buffaloriver.com has excellent maps of entire river and sectional maps of the upper Buffalo river campgrounds...
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 11, 2016, 08:04:28 PM
I'm leaving tomorrow to secure two sites (which will accommodate 6 tents) at Steel Creek or Kirby's Landing...those campgrounds are on a first come, first served basis...if they are not suitable, then going to work my way downstream...cell service just sucks in that part of the country, so communications might be hit-or-miss...planning to eat at Low Gap at least a couple of times...the other three close-by campgrounds are Erbie, Ozark, and Pruitt Landing...

buffaloriver.com has excellent maps of entire river and sectional maps of the upper Buffalo river campgrounds...

I'll bet you get into steel creek on a Thursday night. My cheap ass republic wireless phone works down there. I ain't to worried 'bout it.  :boozing:
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: oldbike54 on May 11, 2016, 08:04:54 PM
 Yeah , cell service is iffy in those parts . Curious to see if my Metro PCS , part of T mobile works  . Worst case, we will borrow a local's phone and contact Rocker , or someone who will post up here .

 Michael D , I need your number , lost in the cell phone disaster a few weeks back . Same with you John L .

 Dusty
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 11, 2016, 08:06:38 PM
Yeah , cell service is iffy in those parts . Curious to see if my Metro PCS , part of T mobile works  . Worst case, we will borrow a local's phone and contact Rocker , or someone who will post up here .

 Michael D , I need your number , lost in the cell phone disaster a few weeks back . Same with you John L .

 Dusty

I got it randy
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: oldbike54 on May 11, 2016, 08:09:14 PM
 What do you have Race Bacon ? Or do we wanna know ??? :evil:

 Dusty
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 11, 2016, 09:24:29 PM
What do you have Race Bacon ? Or do we wanna know ??? :evil:

 Dusty

Oh hell, don't want to get that again!  I got Mike d's digits :thumb:
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: oldbike54 on May 11, 2016, 09:57:19 PM
Oh hell, don't want to get that again!  I got Mike d's digits :thumb:

 Well , are you gonna give up that privileged information ? :grin:

 Dusty
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 12, 2016, 08:56:44 AM
Hey DoOds, looks like we're camping here. JB trading co. BRAND NEW facilities 1st weekend to open
https://www.google.com/maps/place/J+B+Trading+Co/@36.1095808,-93.5436934,10.25z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x000000000000000 0:0x5dcb6788c561e5c4!8m2!3d36.092029!4d-93.3069324
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: rocker59 on May 12, 2016, 09:07:44 AM
Hey DoOds, looks like we're camping here. JB trading co. BRAND NEW facilities 1st weekend to open
https://www.google.com/maps/place/J+B+Trading+Co/@36.1095808,-93.5436934,10.25z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x000000000000000 0:0x5dcb6788c561e5c4!8m2!3d36.092029!4d-93.3069324

You're camping at a gas station ?
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 12, 2016, 09:26:34 AM
You're camping at a gas station ?

Not sure how the gas prices came up on the map, I just cut and pasted off the Buffalo river chamber of commerce website *shrug* It's a new place, I was really hoping to be on the river. Apparently okies don't have the appreciation for the river like us hill folk :wink:
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: LowRyter on May 12, 2016, 09:31:52 AM
have fun
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: rocker59 on May 12, 2016, 10:10:53 AM
Not sure how the gas prices came up on the map, I just cut and pasted off the Buffalo river chamber of commerce website *shrug* It's a new place, I was really hoping to be on the river. Apparently okies don't have the appreciation for the river like us hill folk :wink:



JBTrading Company

Primitive Camping $20
RV $30
Platform tents $40 & up   

Open May 1, 2016, we have coin-op showers, indoor toilets, a community fire pit, hook-ups, electricity available. Our outfitter store includes equipment, groceries and supplies. We have gasoline and a cafe serving breakfast and lunch as well as takeout.

We are located just 8 miles from Ponca near the elk, all the major hiking trails, and floating outfitters for the upper Buffalo National River.   Phone: 870-420-3065 for reservations

Website: http://jbtradingco.com
Email: info@jbtradingco.com
GPS: 36.0924601,-93.3071267  Map&Directions


 
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 12, 2016, 11:00:20 AM


JBTrading Company

Primitive Camping $20
RV $30
Platform tents $40 & up   

Open May 1, 2016, we have coin-op showers, indoor toilets, a community fire pit, hook-ups, electricity available. Our outfitter store includes equipment, groceries and supplies. We have gasoline and a cafe serving breakfast and lunch as well as takeout.

We are located just 8 miles from Ponca near the elk, all the major hiking trails, and floating outfitters for the upper Buffalo National River.   Phone: 870-420-3065 for reservations

Website: http://jbtradingco.com
Email: info@jbtradingco.com
GPS: 36.0924601,-93.3071267  Map&Directions

Yep that be the place!  :thumb:
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Michael D on May 12, 2016, 12:38:45 PM
Iffin' that there number John has don't work, the other is BR 549.  If that don't work, just holler real loud. 
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 12, 2016, 12:47:41 PM
Iffin' that there number John has don't work, the other is BR 549.  If that don't work, just holler real loud.

Better yet, Yodel!       Yodelady hoo!!
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: oldbike54 on May 12, 2016, 05:06:10 PM
Better yet, Yodel!       Yodelady hoo!!

 Mikey never answers his phone or messages anyway , if I didn't actually know him , he would seem a figment of our imaginations .

 Dusty
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: rudyr on May 12, 2016, 06:42:41 PM
I had to take my wife to Tunica ms. Web. Thursday. be back fri.. I told  my wife about all the work I had to do this week-end so I don't know if I can make it.  Have fun.  But I might worm out of it.  Guzzi down Harley down all I got is my Triumph and my tent not together.  Can I bring comdo(toy hauler)trailer?Rudyr
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: oldbike54 on May 12, 2016, 07:58:05 PM
I had to take my wife to Tunica ms. Web. Thursday. be back fri.. I told  my wife about all the work I had to do this week-end so I don't know if I can make it.  Have fun.  But I might worm out of it.  Guzzi down Harley down all I got is my Triumph and my tent not together.  Can I bring comdo(toy hauler)trailer?Rudyr

 Rudy , the camp ground lists RV sites , wouldn't see why not . Give them a call . I should be there tomorrow , had an interesting day .

 Dusty
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Michael D on May 13, 2016, 07:23:32 AM
Mikey never answers his phone or messages anyway , if I didn't actually know him , he would seem a figment of our imaginations .

 Dusty

Dang Dusty!   I've been busy changing the oil in the valve covers, replacing the center stand bearings and upgrading the voltage system to 24 volts.    :grin:
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: oldbike54 on May 13, 2016, 07:30:24 AM
Dang Dusty!   I've been busy changing the oil in the valve covers, replacing the center stand bearings and upgrading the voltage system to 24 volts.    :grin:

 Upgrading to the 24 volt center stand bearings ? Good idea  :laugh:

 Dusty
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 13, 2016, 08:13:55 AM
Don't forget to install a hose clamp on your flux capacitor :thumb:
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Michael D on May 13, 2016, 02:51:09 PM
One really needs a graduate degree to master these task.   :grin:

Is lunch on the agenda for Saturday at Low Gap Cafe and if so what time?

Answer will determine whether I go South to the cafe or North to JB Trading Post. 

Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: delrod on May 13, 2016, 07:43:04 PM
Michael the committee has not met yet but the trend is leading towards low gap for lunch.WATCH OUT FOR THE GD ROLY POLY ROCKS ON THE CAMPGROUND DRIVE
 I will get back to you on lunch
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Cam3512 on May 13, 2016, 08:01:22 PM
Man, you guys sure plan on the fly!  Have fun.
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: oldbike54 on May 13, 2016, 08:05:54 PM
Man, you guys sure plan on the fly!  Have fun.

 Farm boys Cam , we're all a bunch of farm boys  :laugh: Unfortunately I can't be there , you guys have fun .

 Dusty
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: LowRyter on May 13, 2016, 08:11:58 PM
Man, you guys sure plan on the fly!  Have fun.

no shit. 

(https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/04/a9/9a/5a/low-gap-cafe.jpg)


I hope they have their rain flys tonight. 
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: oldbike54 on May 13, 2016, 08:16:49 PM
no shit. 

(https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/04/a9/9a/5a/low-gap-cafe.jpg)


I hope they have their rain flys tonight.

 No rain in the forecast for Ponca , just perfect camping weather .

 Dusty
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: rocker59 on May 13, 2016, 11:03:39 PM
I'm horse showing in Little Rock.  Y'all have a good time.
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Michael D on May 14, 2016, 07:07:05 AM
Michael the committee has not met yet but the trend is leading towards low gap for lunch.WATCH OUT FOR THE GD ROLY POLY ROCKS ON THE CAMPGROUND DRIVE
 I will get back to you on lunch

OK Doug!  I'll just head to Low Gap Cafe which should be at Noonish or sooner. 
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: delrod on May 14, 2016, 07:36:40 AM
We will be there . Gonna ride somewhere so not sure of time
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: twowings on May 14, 2016, 07:40:30 AM
no rain last night but very refreshing this morning! Cold front coming through...
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: twowings on May 14, 2016, 07:41:56 AM
Dusty: Doug says he can't wait to taste the supper you're cooking for us tonight 😎
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: twowings on May 14, 2016, 07:44:30 AM
John says catfish and hushpuppies will be just fine with him!
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: twowings on May 15, 2016, 08:10:23 AM
Wish more of you guys had come...three perfect riding days and twisty roads every way you go...😎 pics to follow...
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Michael D on May 15, 2016, 10:35:47 AM
It was a great Ozark Outing with my fellow Guzzi Buddies.   Good food, fun roads to hone your riding skills and the best of company as we terrorized the locals. 


(http://thumb.ibb.co/mWFE1F/Ozark_Outing_5_2016_002.jpg) (http://ibb.co/mWFE1F) (http://thumb.ibb.co/cGTCov/Ozark_Outing_5_2016_007.jpg) (http://ibb.co/cGTCov) (http://thumb.ibb.co/dBLsov/Ozark_Outing_5_2016_004.jpg) (http://ibb.co/dBLsov) (http://thumb.ibb.co/cJ5Q8v/Ozark_Outing_5_2016_001.jpg) (http://ibb.co/cJ5Q8v) (http://thumb.ibb.co/k2pVaa/Ozark_Outing_5_2016_003.jpg) (http://ibb.co/k2pVaa) (http://thumb.ibb.co/mptZ1F/Ozark_Outing_5_2016_005.jpg) (http://ibb.co/mptZ1F) (http://thumb.ibb.co/n7pVaa/Ozark_Outing_5_2016_008.jpg) (http://ibb.co/n7pVaa) (http://thumb.ibb.co/iWYqaa/Ozark_Outing_5_2016_009.jpg) (http://ibb.co/iWYqaa) (http://thumb.ibb.co/mzvQ8v/Ozark_Outing_5_2016_010.jpg) (http://ibb.co/mzvQ8v) (http://thumb.ibb.co/jgoOva/Ozark_Outing_5_2016_Map.png) (http://ibb.co/jgoOva)
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: LowRyter on May 15, 2016, 11:25:02 AM
Wish more of you guys had come...three perfect riding days and twisty roads every way you go...😎 pics to follow...

From my perspective, a little more advanced planning and nearby accommodations for those of us that would rather stay in a motel.  The threat of weather might've chased me away anyway.

Did you take the route through Ark or the one through Mizzeri?
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 15, 2016, 01:29:52 PM
What a weekend! Spontaneity can be a wonderful thing! The Saturday am 175 mile loop was a blast!
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: rocker59 on May 15, 2016, 02:06:11 PM
From my perspective, a little more advanced planning and nearby accommodations for those of us that would rather stay in a motel.  The threat of weather might've chased me away anyway.

Did you take the route through Ark or the one through Mizzeri?


John, there are accommodations all along the buffalo. None of them have corporate franchise, so all you need is some Google Foo.

Personally,  I enjoy our 4 states spontaneity. 
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 15, 2016, 02:09:26 PM
The tent platform camping seems to be a good way to go. Big tent with bunks inside :thumb:
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: twowings on May 15, 2016, 02:45:29 PM
This was another perfect Wild Guzzi KS-MO-OK-AR campout!  Weather was ideal...stayed at Steel Creek Thursday night and got my 1/2 price Senior Citizen fee reimbursed by some nice folks who got to the campground after it was declared full...fortunately you can have 6 people/3 tents at each site so we invited another group of folks from Washington State to join us...we ended up being 7 total but the Park Ranger (ex-Marine) who came over to inform us of the campground rules decided "I didn't see anything unusual here..."   :thumb: Thursday night was a spectacular night for stargazing and swapping adventure stories...

Friday morning I did about 75-80 miles of twisty bits riding and ended up at JB Trading Company Campground....this is a brand-spanking new enterprise and they have obviously spent a LOT of money making a nice little campground....the bathroom was the most fabulously-appointed campground bathroom I've ever encountered!  The grounds have shade and grass but the gravel used in the driveways was not bike-friendly at all...we ended up getting ISDT riding lessons from GuzzistaJohn and used the grassy areas to avoid having to wrestle the bikes over baby-doll-sized rocks...another BIG drawback is the lack of electricity to the tent camping area AND the quarter-a-minute showers....SERIOUSL Y, $20 bucks a night to camp and I have to carry a roll of quarters to the shower????  The National Park Service campgrounds are only $12.00/night with flush toilets and they are on the river....JB Trading Company is on a windswept hilltop with nice enough scenery but only a man-made pond for a water feature...still, they are just getting started and bugs have to be worked out....the camp store has just about everything you could need if you decided to leave home with just the clothes on your back and a desire to camp out, hike, paddle the river, sleep in a hammock, split wood, and look the part of a seasoned outdoorsperson...

I set up camp and proceeded to apply liquid brain therapy and soak up some sun while I watched the wildlife (lotsa bluebirds) and waited on Delrod and GuzzistaJohn to arrive...ate supper at Low Gap; a fabulous salmon salad....it's just so handy having a New-York Culinary-School-trained chef supervising your middle-of-nowhere-Arkansas menu!  :thumb:

The boys arrived a little later in the evening and we continued to apply pain medication to easy the road-weariness... :grin:

Saturday morning dawned gloriously and after a tasty JB Trading Company breakfast hit the road for @ 200+ miles of "Road Crooked and Steep next XX Miles". What a ride!  Thanks to Delrod and GuzzistaJohn for their patience and guidance while I gamely attempted to look like a real grown-up rider.... :laugh:

Back to Low Gap (seriously, if this cafe was in a wet county, I would probably just call my wife and have my mail forwarded there! LOL) for lunch with the lovely and talented Michael D. who popped over from T-town just for lunch and a quick dash to Jasper for groceries and libations...due to previous plans Michael had to return to Tulsa that same night but it was great to have him show up!

Sat around camp Saturday night swapping stories and tall tales with dinner generously provided by Chef Delrod and cocktails provided by GuzzistaJohn....ano ther perfect ending to a perfect day!

Another beautiful riding day today and we all rode together on a little twisty asphalt ribbon known as AR-103 before splitting up at the US-412 junction...

Uneventful ride home with light traffic on US-412...bike ran beautifully! Thanks guys for a great weekend!

(http://i1303.photobucket.com/albums/ag158/twowings1/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/67B6A583-46B1-4AE0-8E8A-7E9744A94540_zpshdrkccaa.jpg) 

(http://i1303.photobucket.com/albums/ag158/twowings1/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/5F7BF3F4-06B8-456F-BB67-5C9F9A573F73_zpsmwryrm9m.jpg)

(http://i1303.photobucket.com/albums/ag158/twowings1/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/527696B4-36C1-40B7-B978-EA31ADF53A4D_zps3s6caijm.jpg)

(http://i1303.photobucket.com/albums/ag158/twowings1/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/DC9588A3-7284-4F3E-B3A7-73ED8689D1E1_zps6softhva.jpg)

(http://i1303.photobucket.com/albums/ag158/twowings1/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/DE31057E-A2CD-4EC4-8F09-B5D2C2A9BF1E_zpswda9gcie.jpg)

(http://i1303.photobucket.com/albums/ag158/twowings1/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/4FBB913E-E73B-4E3A-950F-E7FF0D9FBBF8_zps2kfxondx.jpg)

(http://i1303.photobucket.com/albums/ag158/twowings1/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/44F46A85-E27E-4E08-ADF3-2EED11ED5F68_zpsd2k7bsma.jpg?1463341117767)

(http://i1303.photobucket.com/albums/ag158/twowings1/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/12500E35-E25F-4707-BD15-85640E3AAD32_zpsavzxxewd.jpg)

(http://i1303.photobucket.com/albums/ag158/twowings1/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/5843A2F4-627F-42E9-9485-23F886954D47_zpsgw9xstn2.jpg)

(http://i1303.photobucket.com/albums/ag158/twowings1/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/87A6A42D-134C-440C-8B53-91DDE2797E07_zpsbf1e4mmu.jpg)

(http://i1303.photobucket.com/albums/ag158/twowings1/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/136AC619-A6F9-40E5-AAF6-F48EF51F5AD9_zpsssgo15vy.jpg?1463341366019&1463341366189&1463341373091)

(http://i1303.photobucket.com/albums/ag158/twowings1/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/9E93802F-DF83-4B10-9090-E84E6A24F7D4_zps650451dw.jpg)

(http://i1303.photobucket.com/albums/ag158/twowings1/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/359B0095-A665-4E23-B043-A88CDF0ED56D_zpsj8leg90u.jpg)

(http://i1303.photobucket.com/albums/ag158/twowings1/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/3EF86735-1671-49E2-8D94-F5E113411E49_zpswbppmp5q.jpg)


Back home but ready to go again!

(http://i1303.photobucket.com/albums/ag158/twowings1/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-05/B266AE66-11A9-47BE-9B01-B604C7AC2ABB_zpsf4kccx1r.jpg?1463341888901&1463341889220&1463341900154&1463341902436)





Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 15, 2016, 03:18:34 PM
 :thumb: :bike-037: :thumb: :bike-037: :thumb: :bike-037:
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: LowRyter on May 15, 2016, 05:14:55 PM

John, there are accommodations all along the buffalo. None of them have corporate franchise, so all you need is some Google Foo.

Personally,  I enjoy our 4 states spontaneity.

The cabins were outta my price range.  No worries.  The trip worked out well for those that went. 

But it was posed why more didn't go.  I wanted to but didn't get it together. 
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Jim Rich on May 15, 2016, 05:26:45 PM
I love that campground and those roads.
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: twowings on May 15, 2016, 05:34:00 PM
Sorry we missed you, John!

As rocker59 posted JB Trading could have accommodated your desire for indoor comfort:

BTrading Company

Primitive Camping $20
RV $30 (emphasis mine)
Platform tents $40 & up   

They had several pull-through sites available...

This was in no way intended to be anything other than me going camping and inviting any WG'ers who wanted to get out this weekend along to join the fun...hotels (even in Muskogee, OK) are out of my price range and I'm not an RVer so I plead ignorance on not researching other possibilities other than tent camping...but the Buffalo River Scenic River area is a popular destination and I'm sure anyone could have found lodging to suit from 5-star palatial lodges to bed-and-breakfast to hotels to RVs to tents in the area...

I guess I'm just too impulsive and free-spirited to be much help organizing anything...a holdover from my flower-child days, I guess... :cool:
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: twowings on May 15, 2016, 05:40:58 PM
I love that campground and those roads.

If this ever gains status as an annual pilgrimage, I'm going to name it 'Road(s) Steep and Crooked Next XX Miles Low Gap Cafe Buffalo River Not-A-Rally"!

I haven't had so much fun on a bike since back in high school taking a girl to the lake on my Gilera 106 for some blanket wrestling.... :cool:
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 15, 2016, 07:04:58 PM
Hey Johnny L, when's the next time you can go? It's only 100 miles or so to me, no sweat! How about you pull yer trailer to withrow springs? maybe our illustrioust moderators can attend this time. Who knows who might show up :thumb:
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Michael D on May 15, 2016, 07:05:35 PM
If this ever gains status as an annual pilgrimage, I'm going to name it 'Road(s) Steep and Crooked Next XX Miles Low Gap Cafe Buffalo River Not-A-Rally"!


With a title such as you just crafted, start a newspaper.  I'll subscribe and take the Sunday paper too.   :wink:

Thanks for posting the summary and all the great photos. 

Lets all do it again, real soon!   
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 15, 2016, 07:13:26 PM
Hey, whenever you flat landers are ready! Let's do it again before the chiggers grow fangs. :bike-037:
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: LowRyter on May 15, 2016, 07:14:48 PM
Hey Johnny L, when's the next time you can go? It's only 100 miles or so to me, no sweat! How about you pull yer trailer to withrow springs? maybe our illustrioust moderators can attend this time. Who knows who might show up :thumb:

I am not going to pull my trailer.  I like the ride there and about.  I just didn't want to camp in a tent.  There's no way to put my duffle on the Greenie.  The weather was making it iffy and by the time it worked around the Mrs was doing some weekend planning.  Remember I nixxed that RAT raid a couple weeks earlier because it looked like rain and it was in a cheap motel.

No worries.  I just like to sportbike but not worry with the tent stuff.  I have some special roads and I've been riding there for 15 years.  Yeah, I've been jonse-ing for it and have missed the last couple of chances. 

Nobody's fault but mine.   

Hopefully I see some of you here for the Mile.  And maybe do my Ozark ride his fall.  And maybe meet up for Weekend lunch.
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: oldbike54 on May 15, 2016, 07:16:36 PM
 Not long until the OKC flat track races .
 As for a Withrow gathering , sounds good to me , or Grand Lake , or Spavinaw OK , or Baxter Springs KS , or , well , you get the point . Heck , Cedar Vale II  :laugh:

  " Illustrious moderators " , that's funny Race Bacon  :rolleyes: :laugh:

 Dusty
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 15, 2016, 07:56:45 PM
Baxter springs instead of nw ark? No thanks. Saturday morning was the stuff they make beer commercials about. Perfect weather, great roads and good friends. Riding Kansas section roads just doesn't measure up🗿🗿🗿
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: leroysch on May 15, 2016, 11:19:58 PM
Looks like another NAR hit.
Decided to do a valve adjustment this weekend on mine...and try those silicone...ummm...g askets. They spec 10-15 in-lbs...good grief! Between doing this and working up the cajones to use the MG lift for the first time its been a trip itself.
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: LaMojo on May 16, 2016, 08:59:47 AM
To a flat lander, the Boston Mts are the next best thing to the Smokies and Rockies and a lot closer.  Been exploring that area since the late '60s.   Sounds like a good gathering place since Steve no longer has the Eureka Springs camp out. Good photos.
Title: Re: May 12-15 Lost Valley - Ponca, AR Campout
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 16, 2016, 03:43:14 PM
To a flat lander, the Boston Mts are the next best thing to the Smokies and Rockies and a lot closer.  Been exploring that area since the late '60s.   Sounds like a good gathering place since Steve no longer has the Eureka Springs camp out. Good photos.

Steve Walker's rally was the best! That was my 1st exposure to the local Guzzi family!