Bass Pro’s Johnny Morris announces purchase of Dogpatch USA

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SPRINGFIELD – Noted conservationist and Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris announced Tuesday the purchase of the former Dogpatch USA theme park property, a beautiful 400-acre natural setting, in northern Newton County.In a news release, Morris says a specific plan for the property remains in the early stages of exploration, and any possible future development will be an extension of his signature experiences that help families connect to nature and each other.”We are very excited to have the opportunity to restore, preserve and share this crown jewel of Arkansas and the Ozarks so everyone can further enjoy the wonderful region we call home,” says Morris, a lifelong resident of Springfield, who has worked tirelessly to promote and share the natural beauty of the Ozarks with visitors from around the world.

Morris adds, “We’re going to take our time to restore the site, dream big and imagine the possibilities to help more families get back to nature through this historic and cherished place.”

The site is located near the legendary Buffalo National River, which flows through 135 miles of breathtaking natural scenery. One of the few remaining un-dammed rivers in the lower 48 states, the Buffalo was the first river to receive special designation from the National Park Service.

Today, the area is a popular destination for outdoor adventures including float trips, fishing, camping and mountain biking. The Dogpatch property is a short, scenic 35-minute drive from Big Cedar Lodge, a premier wilderness resort, just north of the Missouri-Arkansas state line in nearby Ridgedale.

Celebrating a Cherished History

Initially constructed in 1967, the property formally known as Dogpatch USA operated as a theme park featuring a trout farm, horseback rides, and various amusement rides and attractions. During the height of its popularity in the late 60s, the destination attracted 300,000 annual visitors but attendance gradually declined before closing in 1993. While there have been numerous owners, the site has been vacant for the past several years with many of the remaining structures in a dilapidated state.

Bass Pro says the property’s next chapter will be an ode to the heritage of the Ozarks and the abundant wildlife and natural beauty found here. One top priority will be restoration of the large natural spring and bringing back to life the renowned trout hatchery and many future fishing opportunities.

Morris and his team are evaluating which buildings can be salvaged and restored, while beginning to clear debris and dilapidated structures.

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