Mapping Software Suggestions?

[Bill Butts]

Greetings Folks~

I am searching for a good mapping software that is either free or inexpensive for creating some basic maps.

My operating system is Windows XP.

I need to create some fairly basic maps that would include river basins like the White River or Arkansas River basins and all their significant tributaries and lakes.

The software would also need to be compatible with MS Powerpoint, since that is the software I will be using to display the maps I create.

What appears to be the best one I've located from researching basic softwares is MapMaker Gratis, which is a free download and appears to have a nice menu of capabilities.

If any of you have experience with basic mapping software, your input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance for your prompt follow-up,

Bill