From Staff Reports
"A day on the river is mighty fine, but two days, three days, maybe more is so divine," Flip Putthoff, outdoor reporter for the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, said. Putthoff lives on Beaver Lake in the Rocky Branch area, and has been floating and fishing the streams of the Ozarks for more than 40 years.
When: 2 p.m. Sunday, April 9
Where: Hobbs State Park Conservation area’s visitor center, Ark. Hwy. 12 just east of the Hwy 12/War Eagle Road intersection.
Cost: Free
Public is invited, 479-789-5000
The tradition of river floating and gravel bar camping runs deep in the Ozarks, and is the topic of Putthoff's program at the Hobbs State Park visitor center. He has taken countless overnight floats and trips on Ozark rivers that have lasted a week or more.
"Our rivers are spectacular in beauty and are right here in our own back yard," Putthoff said. "Gravel bars along our streams are a paradise for camping, offering solitude, peace and the satisfying sound of flowing water to lull you to sleep."
Putthoff will share his list of the best rivers for floating on an overnight trip, or adventures lasting a week or more. Find out what gear to take on a multi-day float, how to keep it dry, and what is the best times of year to go. He will offer tips on finding wood, making a campfire, camp cooking tips, where to pitch the tent on a gravel bar and how to get a good night's sleep. You do not want to miss this comprehensive program on overnight fishing on Ozark streams.
This program is a continuation of the Friends of Hobbs monthly Speaker Series. To learn more about upcoming Friends of Hobbs speakers and other park programs, visit friendsofhobbs.com/ and ArkansasStateParks.com/hobbsstateparkconservationarea.
Editorial on 04/05/2017