Tues., August 18 I drove through sweltering temps to the KOA campground in Great Falls. I decided a little pampering was appropriate (and a long shower was absolutely necessary). The entrance to the campground, beside a Walmart and through an industrial area, wasn’t promising, but the campground itself is well shaded and quiet, except for the occasional helicopter flyovers from the nearby Malmstrom Air Force Base..

After a hot shower, dinner, and a good night’s sleep, I was ready to explore the area. Giant Springs State Park has miles of walking paths and trails along the Missouri River and a Lewis and Clark Trail Interpretive Center. The Great Falls of the Missouri is a short drive away (where Great Falls got its name).The boys and I set out.

The Giant Springs are a shady, cool retreat right next to the river.

After a stroll along the river to look at all the watefowl, we drove downriver to Ryan Dam and the Great Falls. Unfortunately. pets aren’t allowed on Ryan Island, where you get the best view of the dam and falls, so I snapped a few quick photos and returned to the car before Moe and Scooby expired in the heat