Americas Best Campground - Branson, MO

 Americas Best Campground - Branson, MO

We decided to stop in Branson, MO on our way to Guntersville, AL for the big shindig (Emma and Sid's wedding).  Since neither of us have ever been to Branson, it was on our bucket list and seemed to be the perfect  opportunity.  We would be able to take a rest from the traveling and take in some shows.  Looking at the area, it was very promising for hiking also.

We saw some shows, Reza (magician) was very good; The Petersons (blue grass family band); The Haygoods (family country variety show); Clay Cooper's Country Music Express (family country show) and the Bald Knobbers Jamboree (the first show in Branson- credited with starting in 1959).  We thought all of the shows were pretty good.  By the time we saw the Bald Knobbers, we were pretty burnt out, so maybe the show was better than we thought.  It was a whirlwind of shows and eating out at some interesting restaurants. Lisa was her usual thrifty self and found a bunch of BOGO coupons for the local restaurants, so we made good use of them. 

No stop in Branson would be complete without making our way to Springfield, MO to see the USS Lapon Sail at the American Legion.

USS Lapon (SSN-661) was the Submarine Mark was stationed on twice in his Navy career. When the ship was decommissioned, the sail was given to Ozark Runner Submarine Vet Base.  

We did find time for one hike while we were in Branson. It ended up being a really great stop for us- especially since we were doing new things in a new area and it was the great rest break we needed.