Father / Son Canoe Campout '98
Elk River, MO

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	Starting early Friday afternoon, volunteer dads and Scouts drive to the Southwest corner of Missouri and setup at Gracie's Canoe Camp. It takes the rest of the day to put up all the Troop's tents and kitchen so the site is ready for all the rest of the Troop's dads and Scouts to roll in later that evening.
	Early Saturday morning, after a great breakfast prepared by the Dud Patrol, everyone goes down to the river and selects their canoe.  Most all canoes have a Scout and his dad, but a few boys who's dads couldn't come pair off with an older Scout.
	The Troop picked the Elk River for its annual Father/Son canoe campout because it is a smooth-flowing, gentle river with little whitewater.  After trying other rivers within a reasonable drive distance from Oklahoma City, the Elk River has proved to be the best choice.
	After ducking under a low-water bridge half-way down the river, we all pull over to a gravel bar for a rest and lunch.   Scouts take advantage of the stop to play in the water.  Most dads, not in the picture, are trying to recuperate on shore.
	Hours later, this is a welcome site to everyone as it marks the end of the float.  Just past the railroad bridge is our off-load point.  One must be on guard at this point as other Troop members might decide you stayed far too dry on the trip and need a dunking!
	Draggin' 'dem bones outta da boat isn't so easy!  Although it's a long paddle, this is one of the year's best trips and one that Scouts and their dads remember for the rest of their lives.
	After the charter company loads up the canoes, we all climb into the bus for a ride back to the campsite.  Along the way, much of the river you just paddled is visible so you get a different perspective on where you've been.
	Back at camp, the Dud Patrol goes into action and prepares an incredible dinner.  As everyone is real hungry, even if they fixed hot dogs, everyone would think it a feast!  The evening is topped off with a campfire.
	Sunday, we return to the church, just like on any other campout, and prepare to unload equipment from the trailer.   This is one campout you don't want to miss.