Sunburst Ranch has new owners


Times photo / Jessi Dreckman. River outfitter Sunburst Ranch’s new owners are Bryan and Stephanie Bade, at right, who bought the business April 1 from Justin and Amy Spencer, left. The Spencers will continue working with the Bades this summer to insure a smooth transition.

North Fork River outfitter Sunburst Ranch has new owners. Bryan and Stephanie Bade bought the campground, cabin and canoe outfitter April 1 from Justin and Amy Spencer, who had owned the resort for the last 15 years. The new owners say Sunburst will have the same policies, prices and offerings as it has always had, and the Spencers will be on site working alongside the Bades at Sunburst this summer, making the transition a smooth one.

“With their love of the outdoors and our river, Bryan and Stephanie are the perfect fit for Sunburst,” former owner Amy Spencer said. “They are excited to take Sunburst forward, and they have a lot of great ideas for the future.”

The Bades relocated from St. Louis and now live in a house on the Sunburst property. Bryan’s parents have had a house on the banks of the North Fork River for several years, and Bryan and Stephanie have spent a lot of time on the river over the years. They were especially instrumental with recovery efforts after the 2017 historic flood, spearheading the North Fork RiverStrong fundraiser event at Schlafly Brewery in St. Louis that raised over $20,000 for projects directly affecting the North Fork. 

For more information on Sunburst Ranch’s summertime offerings, visit sunburstranchcanoe.com, search for Sunburst Ranch on Facebook or call the outfitter at 417-284-3443.

Ozark County Times

504 Third Steet
PO Box 188
Gainesville, MO 65655

Phone: (417) 679-4641
Fax: (417) 679-3423