World United States Oklahoma Grove

On the Road with Val and Joan

Pensacola Dam Aug 17, 2009

We spent the day taking a drive around Grand Lake O' the Cherokees. This is such a beautiful area, it is difficult to pick one particular area. We found our way to the southeast part of the lake and decided to tour Pensacola Dam. This Dam is considered the largest muliple arch da in the world. At 6,565 ft long, it has 51 arches and 21 spillways. Water going through the spillways is controlled by spillgates measuring 25 ft by 36 ft. The dam towers approximatly 150 ft above the riverbed. The tour was very well given by the guide. I didn't feel it was scripted at all. She told us much of the history of the dam construction and about the 13 men that died during the construction. Even using the same nets that were used on the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco did not save these men from falling to there death. As we drove across the bridge, we could see the oldest Oklahoma State Park that had been created afterr the dam was finished. The trees leave you feeling like your in a forest. After the mile on the bridge, we came into Disney, OK This town could be wonderful if only they played off the Disney name. They do have the Blue Lake State Park in Disney that is right on the lake. We stopped to take a picture, then continue on around the lake finding our way back to Grove. When we got back to the rig, it was obvious that we had missed awind storm as most of our outdoor stuff had been packed and sat under the RV. I am most greatful that we had the wisdom to bring in the awning before leaving. The one thing about RVing is you never stop learning. Until next time.........

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