One Slow Afternoon at HASKINS FORD- Isabella, MO

Missouri summer days can be hot.

No—scratch that. Missouri summer days can be unbearably hot.

When we visit family down south, it is not in our nature to just stay inside next to the air conditioning. Instead, we look for open spaces, water, and places to cool off, and there is no better place to do this than one of our favorite spots, Haskins Ford.

This area, along an upper arm of Bull Shoals Lake, is perfect for a quick stop or a full day of fishing and exploring. On most days, it is lightly used, which is why we continue to come back to the area to let the dogs splash around, stretch their legs, wander the open space, and enjoy a little time without running into many people.

As we turn off onto MO 863 and head towards the ford, we are taken through the rolling hills of the Ozarks. A few farms dot the landscape, and cattle graze in the open pasture as we make our way down into the lakebed. Eventually, the road crosses over the water, with just a few culverts underneath a concrete roadway with the water flowing through.

There are many places to park and get out to walk and get into the water, but we tend to park on the northeast side of the ford because the water is shallower a little farther up, and the dogs can run and play without any concern. If we do wander closer to the actual ford, we always make sure the dogs have their life jackets on, as the water tends to be deeper.

The water at Haskins Ford, and throughout Bull Shoals from my experience, is usually very clear. Looking for unique rocks is kind of like treasure hunting with the added bonus of being able to splash around and cool off whenever needed. Even with the rocky bottom of the lake in this area, the dogs are easily able to get around and enjoy themselves.

It is important to note that Missouri is home to a few species of venomous snakes and spiders, so always be on the lookout to protect yourself and your pups.

On a few occasions, we have brought along our fishing poles and cast out a line. We've had some success in catching a few bass, much to the excitement of our pups as they dance around on shore waiting for us to reel the fish in.

And if you are just looking to stretch your legs or get a little walk in, there is plenty of space. While the area is mostly rock, some areas are grassy or compacted sand during dry times of the year. When the water is low, one can walk up and down the ford next to the water for a few miles. We find it interesting to look for odd-shaped pieces of driftwood from when the water was high. Something to note and be aware of, there are burrs in some places along the ford, so this could be an issue if your dog has a long coat.

Haskins Ford is a wonderful place to see wildlife unbothered by human influence. We have often spotted loons, herons, and songbirds calling this area home. We've also spotted deer on the flats of Haskins Ford or on the sides where the land slopes upward into the trees. The heron pictured below was fishing during our visit and was lucky enough to catch a snack right before we left. I felt it was a great moment to capture at the end of a perfect day.

And then, we took the long way home...