Gravois Mills - Page 8

  The Gravois Arm is the first branch of the main channel, from the dam, that has it's own MMs, and the town of Gravois Mills rests at the North end of the channel, at MM10 of the Gravois Arm, where the Gravois Creek empties into the Lake. Route 5 runs parallel to the Gravois Arm, from Versailles in the north, though Gravois Mills, and south to Laurie. Businesses and residences from the west bank of the Gravois Arm to the east bank of the main channel in Proctor, boast Gravois Mills as their address, and there's no shortage of off-lake features including cinemas, an International Raceway, and several pizzerias and sports bars, to enjoy a relaxing meal or take in a game.

  In the late 1800's, Joseph and Thomas Humes lived on a family farm, just north of where Gravois Mills is today. They inherited the Mill and Wool 'Factory' when their father passed away, and in Jan of 1884 they platted the the Village of Gravois Mills, where a post office by that name has been in continuous operation since 1860.

  This cozy town was less affected by the Bagnell Dam flooding in 1932 than some other towns, and still remains at the waters edge near it's original location, at the outlet of Gravois Creek. The Town Office sits right on the water, the Dollar General has a nice view, and more than a few amenities are easily accessible by water, as well as by land. Gravois Mills Public Access is right in town, including a boat ramp and Raymond's Landing, which makes it easy to put in or dock up, and then it's just a short walk to the post office or grocery store, as well as Boardman Pizzeria, the 5 Diner, and 10-42 Bar & Que.

  Despite the laid back atmosphere, and the assortment of coves well suited to fishing, or other calm water sports, such as *E-Foil* or paddling, the Lake provides all the views, activities, and amenities one would expect. Several marinas and marine repair locations reside along the Gravois Arm, as well as relaxing and local favorite diners such as Maggie's on the Lake, and Lake Burger, both of which are accessible by water and feature spectacular views. Gravois Mills is also home to the ever popular Coconuts Caribbean Beach Bar and Grill, at MM7 of the Gravois Arm, featuring 2 pools, events, Bananas Waterpark, boat rentals, a gas dock, and a year round RV Resort, all in a four legged friendly environment.

  On the main channel, just past the mouth of the Gravois Arm at MM7, are the Millstone Condos and the Millstone Marina, providing the dockage and sea store you would expect, as well as the Ol' Basshole restaurant and bar, the Mojava Coffee truck right at the courtesy dock, and a full service RV Resort. In the same cove is the Playin Hooky water taxi, and the Tap and Grill Lakeside Brew Haus, and a little farther down, at MM8, in the Buck Creek Cove, if you look carefully, is the Hideout, an aspiring Caribbean dive bar with simple food and great drinks, and a deck and view worthy of relaxation. No matter where you live in Gravois Mills, a relaxing retreat, or exciting adventure can be found around any bend in the road, or the Lake.