(Greer MO)
Falling Spring was on the way to my next camp, and about 3 miles down a narrow gravel road into the Mark Twain National Forest. Not a part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, but instead was several miles south.
Falling Spring Pond
A family from Tennessee had homesteaded the site around 1851. It was an ideal spot with a large pond below the spring. I suppose it provided all of their water needs, and probably fish and frogs to eat.
Falling Spring Mill
Falling Spring
The small mill was reached by a footbridge across the pond. This mill was not restored, and was in poor shape. And, it backed up to a cliff from which the water came falling down. I thought the site was quite enchanting.
Eleven Point River by Camp
My campsite was in the woods by the Eleven Point River. Only two other campers in tents shared the campground. However, hours of raining gave me an uncomfortable feeling about sleeping in that flash flood prone area. So, in the middle of the night, I left and found a pull-out on higher ground.
Camp: Mark Twain NF-Greer Crossing CG drycamp
Scene: Spring, mill, pond
Note: This visit occurred in September.
What a beautiful place. Can’t wait to explore it myself now. Think I’d be able to drive there from Pinellas County, without too much aggravation. That Old Mill is so best looking. The waterfall is my favorite picture though. I’m partial to waterfalls. Think it comes from growing up a “desert rat.”
That place is at the end of a long and narrow gravel road through the forest. I’m lucky no one else was on the road. A pretty place though.
I’m reminded of the old saying, “Better safe than sorry”. I don’t think it’s wise to stay in a flood prone area, especially when it’s raining or looks like rain. You probably slept much better on the higher ground!
I felt much safer at the side of the little traveled road.