Munstream.Adventures: Ponca State Park

We kicked off the summer camping adventures with a visit to Ponca State Park in Nebraska, about 90 miles from home. Dave and I had both heard great things about this park, so we were excited to check it out in person. We arrived on Friday early evening and were immediately impressed with the waterpark upon entry. The kids were so eager to check it out, but we held them off as Anna and Maggie planned to arrive the following day and it was on our agenda.

We found our space and got situated. We had a huge camp spot, but it had a deep slope, making it hard to use any of the grassy space for anything significant, which was mainly only a problem for Sully and Dave who were going to tent the night Maggie and Anna stayed. We set up, had an easy dinner and a campfire. It was hot, but great to be settled. 

Maggie and Anna arrived mid morning the next day and we had a full agenda. We wanted Anna (and Mag)to experience all things camping, so we jammed it all in. We started the morning with a hot 45 minute in and out hike to a lookout over NE, IA, and SD, followed by a campsite lunch, an afternoon swim, a bike ride, a cookout, campfire, and a performance by the kids. The highlight was the pool. It was 91 degrees, so it made for the perfect hot weather option. It was complete with a slide, a climbing wall, diving board, and a great concessions stand, what more could you ask for?? 

Other highlights was dessert, Maggie and Anna found all sorts of fun ideas online that we tried out, and the performance at midnight of 'Sass to Sweet," the story of Piper turning from sassy into sweet. As you can imagine it was fun for all. 

We were sad to see the fun come to an end on Sunday, but it left us ready for the adventures ahead. 

Dinner on the Blackstone.

Greta found something sweet. 

Piper the photographer, capturing happy hour. 

Pip

Off for a campsite bike ride. 

Golden hour. 

The hike. 

The crew. 

The kids. 

Silly selfie. 

We made it to the pool! 

I was trying to capture the temp, but 
apparently only caught the time :).
It was 91 degrees. 

    

Nonstop fun for these four (five counting Dave).

Post pool matchy match. 

The excitement of finding a frog. 

Mag and I prepare dinner. 

From Sass to Sweet.