Hiking, Historical sites, history, midwest, outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Ha Ha Tonka State Park in MIssouri's Ozarks features green forests, lovely vistas, and natural bridges thanks to karst topography. It also protects the ruins of a 1900s European castle.

Food, Hiking, midwest, Opinion, outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Lake of the Ozarks

On this adventure we stayed in Osage Beach along Lake of the Ozarks, located about half-way between St. Louis and Branson. The area is a popular place for summer vacationers, as it offers many opportunities for recreation with its miles of shoreline and sparkling blue waters, but it was pretty even in the early fall.

american west, california, Camping, Hiking, Historical sites, history, national parks, outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Hetch Hetchy Reservoir

Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is located in the northwestern corner of Yosemite National Park and provides water for the residents of the San Francisco Bay area. This post explores the history of Hetch Hetchy, along with a brief walk along its shore.

american west, california, Hiking, outdoors, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

The Natural Bridges of Calaveras County

The Cranky Camper visits a well-known secret swimming spot not far from Angels Camp: Natural Bridges.

american west, california, Camping, Hiking, Historical sites, history, Museums, outdoors, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, wine, wine and drink, writing

Angels Camp: Mark Twain and the Jumping Frogs of Calaveras County

While Mark Twain's "The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County" may have put Angels Camp on the map, this city in Sierra gold country is a great place to explore. For more information on California history, visit the Angels Camp Museum and Visitor Center.