Tips for the Branson, MO area

[Trekrider]

I am planning a trip to Big Cedar Lodge in Ridgedale, MO., just south of Branson, for late May or early June. Does anyone know of any hot photo spots I should visit? I am planning to go to Dogwood Canyon, but that is all I know of in the area. Any advice would be much appreciated.

[Tom]

I forgot where I heard this, but:

Branson, Mo is what Las Vegas would be like if Ned Flanders designed it.


Sorry, I haven't been there since I was a kid, so I can't help on locations.

[kenw]

Dogwood Canyon is a definite must do. Have you been there before? Our 1st (and only so far) trip was fabulous, had I known what to expect I would have made sure I had more time. (if you like waterfalls, this is close to heaven...). We WILL be back.....

The Beaver suspension bridge south towards Eureka Springs is photogenic. A park nearby has some abandoned RR trestles that can be done artistically if you have time.
http://www.bridgemeister.com/pic.php?pid=1231

Beaver Lake (and one would assume Table Rock Lake) makes some great sunsets. Use a map and plan accordingly as lake access with a westerly view can be limited.

Our trip in 2004 was to Eureka Springs, which in itself is not too far from Branson; it was our hub for day trips out and about. Personally, after one trip thru Branson in the 80s, I pledged that once was more than enough.....and we've avoided it like the plague ever since.

[venchka]

You gotta be 30 years too late. My folks went a lot and I went a couple times back in the 70s-early 80s. Then the place got ruin't. We haven't been back since our favorite place to stay downstream from Banson doubled their rates and told us they didn't have any vacancies for 6 months-which would be in February.

There are better places to go in Arkansas, Missouri & Oklahoma.

Bon voyage.

[kenw]

I see that Ridgedale is a few miles south of Branson, that's good. The entire area is very photogenic, just avoid Branson.

[venchka]

Personally, after one trip thru Branson in the 80s, I pledged that once was more than enough.....and we've avoided it like the plague ever since.

I see I'm not the only one.

[Trekrider]

I'm not actually going to Branson, but rather Big Cedar Lodge which is Bass Pro Shop's resort on Table Rock Lake. Thanks for all the info.
Robert

[KJ Smith]

I have been to the lodge, have not stayed there,its pretty cool.

You can go to Branson, just not during the show times. It was better last time we were there. (2005)

If you can, take the drive to Springfield to the Big Bass Pro.
Eat at Hemingways in Bass Pro. I finally did and it was well worth it, not very expensive either.

Kevin