Good Sam campers gather for annual friendship campout

Northwest Arkansas’ Good Sam Camping chapters from Rogers, Fort Smith and Bella Vista gathered Sept. 21-24 for the annual Friendship Campout at Cedar Oaks Campground at Grove, Okla.

Thirty camping units of all sizes and shapes, including Class A motor homes, fifth-wheels, trailers, Class B and Class C camping units, came together to enjoy a planned weekend of fun, activities and fellowship. Don and Joann Cowell, area assistant Good Sam state directors, organized the activities for the weekend, which included lots of great food, excellent fellowship and games, as well as a very interesting and enjoyable tour of the beautiful and historic Coleman Theater in Miami, Okla. Built by George Coleman, a local mining magnate, the opulent structure with Louis XV interior design was known as the “Jewel of Route 66.” Many famous entertainers, including Bob Hope and Bing Crosby, played there during the days of vaudeville. During our tour, we had the opportunity to hear the magnificent and fully restored Wurlitzer pipe organ. While Joann raved about the absolutely astounding sounds coming out of the organ, Don marveled at the magnificent chandelier and total restoration of the facility, which was built in 1929.

Lots of other activities were enjoyed during the weekend, including bingo and prizes, an auction of camping equipment and lessons on how to make stained-glass pieces. Each evening, campers enjoyed God’s great outdoors, including many spectacular sunsets over Oklahoma’s Grand Lake.

Don and Joann extend a warm welcome to anyone living in Northwest Arkansas who enjoys traveling and camping, visiting with and making new friends, to join one of the local Good Sam chapters. Call Don or Joann for additional information about their activities at 479-8761799 or 479-381-8420.