Kerrville, Texas

We are staying in the 2010 Best RV Park in Texas, located right on the Guadalupe River.  Its location is what has given it this rating, I'm sure, because it is situated on acres of giant old oak and pecan trees and lawn that stretch for at least a quarter-mile along the river, with the RV sites and buildings located on the bench above, which is separated by a rolling grassy knoll (not the famous Texas grassy knoll) and it's an easy stroll down to the water.  They have some nice old tree swings hanging here and there which are great for relaxing in and watching the wide, shallow river pass by.  It must look absolutely spectacular in the spring and summer when all the leaves are out in full force on the trees.  The opposite side of the river has the same type of vegetation and is undeveloped, so this tranquil spot with birds singing and squirrels scurrying is truly a gem in the hill country of Texas.

And boy, do we KNOW we're in Texas!   How so, you ask?  Two words for you (by Reservoir Dogs' standards):  The fabulous Texas barbecue!  We went to a BBQ joint the first night we got here, Saturday, just a shack on the highway with a couple of huge smokers that look like big old iron cylinders with chimneys on them, and a couple of gigantic square tanks full of what they soak the ribs and meat in before they smoke them.  The smokers were going full tilt when we got there, and the local cat was curled up underneath one enjoying the warmth on a chilly night here (it was 10 degrees C.)

There is no describing the ribs, brisket, and pulled pork that we had, nor could you do justice to the potato salad, coleslaw, pinto beans, or sweet tea (a Texas specialty).  This place was kind of cafeteria-style, in that you ordered your meat (by the pound -- $12.00), had it dished out onto a plate by a friendly lady with a great Texas drawl, then went around and added your side dishes, drinks, and desserts (home made sweet custard pie and pecan pie beyond description).

The eating area is through another door.  It's furnished with tables that each have a part-loaf of sliced bread in plastic bags, just like you'd buy at the supermarket.  The walls are decorated with various heads of dead animals, mostly deer, although there was a wild boar as well.  They are closed Sundays and Mondays.  We are going back Tuesday.