Bourbeuse River Mill Rock Access

This low-water crossing of the Bourbeuse River in Franklin County Missouri is a special spot. Mill Rock juts upstream toward the concrete crossing, standing like a sentinel. Cool shade, fishing holes to wade and other delights await. Bivouac the top of the rock on a clear night and the stars will transform you.

North America 2010: Bad for Veggies, Great for Fruit

This has been a hot and brutal summer in the Midwest for veggie gardens. Tomatoes were virtually wiped out, leafy greens wilted before they started, sweet corn parched and miserable. But the fruit trees have been bountiful. I had a huge crop of blueberries, pears, and apples - and they were delightful.

Which brings me to my point: Paw paws are going to be wonderful this year, and the persimmon trees are literally breaking down from the weight of fruit. Get yee to the woods, young 'uns, and rustle up some wild fruit... before the deer and raccoons eat 'em all up!