Activating Bull Shoals Lake State Recreation Area US-7190 Ham POTA
Exploring and Activating Bull Shoals Lake State Recreation Area US-7190 Ham POTA
Activating Bull Shoals Lake State Recreation Area US-7190 for POTA is an exciting adventure that combines the great outdoors with the technical challenge of amateur radio operation. This unique experience is part of the Parks on the Air (POTA) program, which encourages ham radio enthusiasts to take their hobby into the great outdoors. The process of activating a park for POTA involves setting up a portable radio station and making contacts with other radio operators around the country or even around the world.
Bull Shoals Lake State Recreation Area
I camped at Lakeview Park, however, there are other campgrounds in the vicinity.
Located in the Ozark Mountains of northern Arkansas, Bull Shoals offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and camping. You'll want to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly, as outdoor radio operation can be affected by constantly changing weather conditions.
I experienced beautiful weather for the eclipse on April 8, but shortly afterward it turned to rain and cloudy skiies.
Upon arriving at the park (Lakeview Park Campground) I did not put up an antenna into the trees. I decided to just use my Hi-Q mobile antenna, the Icom 7300 and my Ameritron amp. That amp can put out 400 watts, but I limit it to between 200 and 300 watts. It worked FB!
Log4OM is my favorite logging program for POTA and I use my Microsoft Surface GO laptop. I operated from inside the camper this time, but I do like to get out with the Elecraft KX2 and enjoy some outside CW contacts on 5 watts. Maybe next time.
As a POTA Hunter you need not submit your contact or log to POTA. The stations doing the activation will do that. If you have a question about a missing activation, contact the activator. Maybe the QSO was missed.
In conclusion, activating Bull Shoals Lake State Recreation Area US-7190 was a rewarding experience. I made 174 contacts with my station inside the camper, got to see the eclipse and enjoyed the nature around the lake.
Whether you're a seasoned ham radio operator or a newcomer to the hobby, POTA offers a unique opportunity to take your radio skills into the great outdoors and connect with a global community of like-minded enthusiasts. So why not pack up your radio gear, head out to the park, and start making contacts? You never know who you might connect with!
Thank You
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