The Great Plains Bunk House

06/01/2026

One of my new favorite apps is Merlin.

It allows you to record the birds around you, and in real time it identifies each species by sound. As a bird sings, its name on the screen turns yellow so you know exactly which bird you’re hearing at that moment.
This evening I sat by the pond at The Great Plains Bunk House for about 10 minutes and listened. These were the beautiful birds that graced me with their presence and songs.
What I find especially fascinating is how different the bird activity is depending on the time of day. The birds I heard this evening weren’t exactly the same birds I heard this morning or in the middle of the afternoon. It reminds me that nature is constantly changing, even when we’re standing in the same spot.
I think even if you’re not a huge bird enthusiast, you would find this fascinating. It’s amazing how much life and beauty surrounds us every day when we simply slow down long enough to notice it.
Nature has a way of reminding us that some of God’s greatest masterpieces aren’t found in museums—they’re right outside our door.

Which birds do you notice most often where you live?

05/18/2026

Years ago, I had a vision… that one day the pile of rubble we now call The Great Plains Bunk House would be enjoyed by people, travelers, star gazers, and those seeking quiet, nature, and simplicity. People who would appreciate the history, the hard work, and the unique themes woven into each room.

Most people thought I was crazy. First, how could old broom corn johnnies that had sat abandoned for years ever become a place people would want to stay? And second… why would anyone want to stay in the middle of nowhere?

But we believed this place was meant to be shared. We believed our way of life, the dirt roads, the dark skies, the quiet prairie sunsets, would not only be visited, but deeply appreciated by people from all over the world.

Today, 12 years later, that vision has become reality. We now host guests from near and far who often leave as friends.

This photo was taken last night by guests staying here at the Bunkhouse. Moments like this remind us that dreams really do come true. And sometimes… they keep growing.

What started as restoring a forgotten place has slowly grown into something even bigger than we imagined. We are now beginning the next chapter through Prairie Life Learning Initiative, a nonprofit focused on education, nature, prairie life, agriculture, dark skies, and giving children and families opportunities to reconnect with the land, creativity, and simple living.

Turns out, the middle of nowhere was exactly where this story was meant to begin. 🤍

Photo by: Bobby Ford
LuShane Maness Parker Lee Maness Lindsey Maness Cortese

05/06/2026

Out here on the Great Plains, you never know what’s going to come down the dirt road next.

One of the best parts of running The Great Plains Bunk House is meeting people from all walks of life—and seeing the incredible, creative, and downright unforgettable vehicles they travel in. From classic rigs and adventure builds to one-of-a-kind creations like this, every guest brings a story with them.

We’ve met travelers, dreamers, builders, stargazers, road-trippers, and families making memories together. And honestly, we wouldn’t trade it for anything.

There’s something special about a place where strangers gather under big skies, swap stories around a fire, and leave as friends.

To everyone who has made their way down our dirt road: thank you for making this little place in the Oklahoma Panhandle so interesting and full of life.

04/24/2026

04/09/2026

Pat has stayed with us several times over the years and he brings friend 🙌🏻
Always a great time!
TAT season is fun!