Wild Things Farm

Enjoyed a quiet start to the day at Pin Oak Campground and were on the road by 0745. With rain and thunderstorms in the forecast, we decided it was time to change our windshield wipers. Pulling the spares from under the couch, they were not the correct configuration to work with our van. Beth did an internet search and found a Freightliner shop that had the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter wipers in stock along our route. Stopping in Memphis at Tag Truck Center made a big difference in visibility! Crystal Floyd, the parts advisor, was helpful on the phone and in person.

Rice Fields along I-40

The Arkansas border ushered in miles of farms alongside I-40. With all the water, we realized that the fields were planted with rice–not something we had expected.

Rice fields weren't the only interesting thing on the interstate. A long load in front of us turned out to be a huge blade for a wind turbine. It was flexing in the breeze and as the truck carrying it bounced over the highway at 75 mph. We have seen many wide-loads, but never a load as long or interesting as this one.

Wind turbine blade on the highway

Our destination for the night was Wild Things Farm in Pocola, Oklahoma. This was to be our first camping experience at a Harvest Hosts site. Arriving at 4:30, the clerk at the farm store called the owner and she told us where to park. The store had fresh berries, jams, salsas, and other produce. In the few minutes it took to park the van, the strawberries had all been sold. The owner's advice was to head down to the field and pick our own. We joined an Amish family who picked enough to make jam for the year. Prices were very reasonable and we enjoyed fresh strawberries for the next five days. We picked up strawberry jam, raspberry salsa, and purple asparagus at the farm store.

By six, the store was locked up, the farm workers had returned home, and we had the place to ourselves. Exploring the dirt road, we photographed the ponies relaxing in a field of grass interspersed with mustard. The farm pond was a relaxing view as the sun set under the clouds. Farm dogs and geese kept up a lively conversation until darkness fully settled over the barnyard.

Morning came early as the farm crew arrived to get started with their daily chores. The pond took on a different look as warm water reacted with the chilly 43 degree temperatures creating a mist on the water.

We enjoyed the experience and would stay here again. There were even restrooms available next to the RV parking area. Harvest Hosts is a program where farm and winery owners agree to let members stay overnight at no charge. Normal protocol is to purchase something from the farm so their is mutual benefit.