Ozark Living

16 • J U LY 2023 • O Z A R K L I V I N G By Randy Rice Ozark Living River Ranch Resort in Noel, Missouri is conveniently located within reach of the four-state area. ey have been a popular Elk River vacation destination for over 40 years, and current owners Dustin and Marlinda Shurback aren't showing any signs of slowing down. "We set the bar when it comes to the outdoor experience and customer service," Dustin said. "You will see and hear that when you visit. We strive every off season to grow our company to provide more for the customer." River Ranch Resort is the perfect destination for your group camping adventure. It's also situated on the beautiful Elk River, a great choice for a summer float trip. ey offer canoes, ras, kayaks and tubes to rent for your floating pleasure. e campground features 40 air-conditioned cabins that sleep from 2 to 24 people, electric and non-electric tent camping sites, and full hook-up RV sites. For your convenience, they have a fully stocked store that includes most anything you might have forgotten at home. Also located in the store is the Hungry Camper Café, serving up many great food options. Last but certainly not least, River Ranch Resort can cater BBQ dinners, or deliver their very popular pizza right to your campsite. "We are a one stop shop," Dustin said. "We have all you would need when you come to vacation from the lodging and floating to the restaurant and store. We pride ourselves in providing exceptional customer care, too, and go above and beyond wherever possible. Our mission statement is 'we pair professional customer care with exceptional outdoor experiences' and that is portrayed in everything we do.'" Dustin's love of the region and the River Ranch Resort began at an early age. "I got in the business back when I was a very young kid—13 or 14 years old," he said. "My duties were picking up trash, cleaning restrooms and helping to collect the jackets and paddles on Saturdays. I worked very hard and found myself constantly striving to learn more. It eventually all paid off when the previous owner approached me one day and asked if I wanted to purchase the resort GREAT OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES SINCE 1980 RIVER RANCH RESORT 16 • J U LY 2023 • O Z A R K L I V I N G

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