Tires make a BIG difference on the big bikes. If I were heading to Arkansas with my GS, I would be running a TKC 80 front and either a TKC 80 or Shinko 805 rear. There are similar tires in other brands, but the point is that I would NOT be using a 50/50 tire, especially on the front. The big bikes tend to load up the front a bit more and having that extra grip up front makes a big difference in how the bike handles in loose conditions. I simply avoid mud if at all possible
Most of the county and forest roads aren't too bad unless there are creek crossings. The concrete crossings can be snot slick. I had 2" of flowing water take the front end out from under my GS the moment the tire entered the water at about 2 mph! The non-concrete crossings are hit and miss depending on the creek bed. The ones with the big rocks can be a real challenge! If in doubt, there are often ways to get around the crossing via different roads nearby.
Here are routes I did last May on my `17 1200 GS riding two up with Daniel.
WHEN: I am heading up to Arkansas May 24-27th. Will arrive Friday evening, ride Saturday and Sunday, then head home Monday. WHERE: I have three double queen non-smoking rooms reserved at the Hampton Inn in Harrison. As of right now, it will be me and my son Daniel (12), Rsquared and his son...
www.twtex.com
I don't remember any of it being real technical, but there were a few water crossings. All of them were easily avoidable though. We just did them for grins. Even though none of this was real hard, I'd still recommend riding with a buddy, just in case
Also, make sure you can repair a tire puncture. Cell service in some areas is questionable.