We stopped for out first night at Black Mesa State Park, an oasis in the Oklahoma panhandle and home to a very large Western Flycatcher rookery. As they cavorted in the giant cottonwood trees above our campsite we paused along the banks of the South Carrizo Creek just above where it runs into Lake Carl Etling in a very peaceful setting.
We have often used this same campground in the past. Great dark skies, lots of wildlife and very quiet. The hiking along the mesa tops and along South Carrizo creek is very relaxing. Although we didn’t have time one can easily hike to the top of nearby Black Mesa the highest point in the state and visit dinosaur tracks in the area.
On the way to the park you cross the Santa Fe Cimmaron route where you can still see the wagon wheel ruts made from 1822 – 1880.
Hens and their brood.
We drove back through Boise City on our way north towards the Colorado state line stopping long enough to say adios to the Tin Man, Chimmy the 18,000 lb. Apatosaurus and another bomb replica.
Saying goodbye to Chimmy, it’s BOMBS AWAY!
