Squirrel Hunting: Sheridan Hunter Reaches Milestone
Richland Creek Tradition
After nearly ten years of trying, Carson Kelly from Sheridan successfully harvested his first squirrel on October 25 during the annual Crutchfield family squirrel hunt. This event is a well-established tradition, ongoing for at least 30 years.
Hunt Location and History
The hunting headquarters move occasionally, but the event consistently takes place in the Ozark National Forest. Past locations include Ozone, Fairview, Haw Creek Falls, and Wolf Pen national recreation areas. In recent years, the Richland Creek National Recreation Area has served as the venue.
This area is a quiet, remote hollow about ten miles down a rough dirt road off Arkansas Highway 16. The route is challenging for vehicles, especially for Wayne Crutchfield, the hunt’s leader, who tows a camper trailer.
Hunt Setup and Atmosphere
Wayne Crutchfield acts as the trail boss, running the official headquarters from his camper. He prepares side dishes there and parks beside a large tent canopy. Regardless of weather, a roaring campfire is always present, and plenty of folding chairs ensure no one has to stand.
Family Participation
The author’s daughter, Amy, accompanied him. After five years working in New Zealand and Australia, she returned home to pursue a master's degree at the University of Arkansas. While still abroad, Amy asked when the Crutchfield family hunt would take place, delighting her father. Wayne Crutchfield then set the date to coincide with Amy’s return.
"We've held it at Ozone, Fairview, Haw Creek Falls and Wolf Pen national recreation areas. Richland Creek National Recreation Area has been the venue for the past several years."
"Accompanying me was my daughter Amy, who has been working in New Zealand and Australia for the past five years. She returned home to pursue a masters degree at the University of Arkansas."
Summary: Carson Kelly’s first squirrel harvest marks a meaningful chapter in a decades-old Crutchfield family tradition, celebrated in a remote yet welcoming setting deep in the Ozark National Forest.