www.ozarkchuckwagon.com

Unique Gifts and Local Artisans of the Ozarks

admin — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0000

When you are looking for a unique gift, then look no further than artisans in the Ozark Mountain Range. You will be able to find incredible pieces from local artists that have a lot of talent. You will not find a better gift idea or souvenir, then something that is handmade from the Ozark. There is absolute nothing like a one of a kind treasure that has someone has spent a lot of time and effort on. The locals that make these items are truly skilled.

There are many different types of artisans in the Ozark. Some make beautiful and enchanting jewelry. Others make pottery or glass items that are truly works of art. There are many artist that can paint breathtaking scenes from the Ozark as well. There are also musicians that record beautiful songs that you can listen to at anytime to remind you of the mountains. No matter what type of gift you are looking for, there is sure to be some kind of treasure awaiting you in the Ozark. These types of goods are special and will not only be great ideas for gifts, but also great reminders of your travels to the beautiful mountain region.Related Article : We’re Heading Home – Ozark, AL

Trout Fishing in the Ozark Mountains

admin — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Trout fishing is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. There are plenty of trout streams and creeks located in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas and Missouri. In total there are 18 spring fed streams and creeks that are open year round within the Ozark Mountains. There is public access on all 18 of these trout streams. It is also said that some of these streams produce trout 10 pounds and up. That is a huge trout. Considered the best of the 18 streams, the North Fork of the White is said to hold thousands of trout per mile. The tailwaters of the Ozarks are part of the White River System, hold thousand of trout and even some record breaking brown trout. 150 miles of the tailwaters produce good populations of trout and a 100 fish day is not uncommon. The North Fork River flows into the tailwaters and gives the White River cold water, which is what trout need, and why the tailwater trout fishing extends 150 miles. You could spend your entire vacation fishing these waters and not cover them all. The Ozark Mountain trout fishing is comparable to trout fishing anywhere else in the country and well worth a trip there.

Dutch Oven Cookoff in the Ozarks

admin — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0000

The Dutch Oven became a practical cooking style for the first settlers to the Ozark mountains. It consisted of a black cast iron pot that allowed the cook to steam stew, bake and fry in the large pot and to use the inverted lid as a frying pan. No other cooking container was needed. On cattle drives this took little space.
The Ozarks refer to a mountain chain located in the central part of the US which includes parts of Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas and Oklahoma. Many people are descendants of the German, English and Scots-Irish with a mixture of Native American influence. Music has always played a strong role in the Ozark culture as can be seen by the rich, traditional songs that have been passed down through the decades.
The Dutch oven was used in England and called casserole dish. The shape of the Dutch oven changed in America so that it had legs and became shallower. It accompanied the settlers across the continent as they made their way westward. It was highly valued and included in family wills as a treasure to be passed on to other family members. The modern Dutch oven is even in use today.

Headed to the Ozarks?

admin — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 00:00:00 +0000

If you’ve been watching lots of Ozark movies on your Direct.tv you may be considering planning a trip. When you get the funds and the time off to make it to one of the most majestic mountain ranges in the country be sure to hit up these quaint towns.
Branson, MI: Missouri is an underrated state and Branson’s got a lot to see and do. After your dinner show head to one of the area’s many natural pools for a night dip then get back on the trails the next day.
Eureka, AR: Just over the border from Branson, Eureka is a deceptively small town with a lot of character. There are Victorian homes, unique shops and tons of great local eats and it’s worth the driveif you can find it on the map.
Meramac State Park: It’s just outside the caverns and although it’s not a town in and of itself there’s natural beauty here like no other place in the Ozarks. If you’re looking to camp and really get back to nature, this is your place.

Traditional Cooking of the Ozark Mountains

admin — Sun, 17 Jul 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Food has long been crucial to the people of the Ozarks. Many people wish they could learn to cook the favorites of these mountain people. Silver Dollar City, located in Branson, Missouri, has heard their cry and responded with a magnificent facility and some impressive classes.

The first of these classes is Coffee Time, Tea Time, Anytime. During this class, held on Sunday afternoons, visitors can learn to make stunning coffee cake from scratch using aromatic ingredients like cinnamon and vanilla.

The second class is the Smokin’ Culinary Class. The Ozark mountain people love to smoke meats and vegetables. During this course, participants will learn to create the smoked favor right on the stove top. There is no need for expensive equipment.

A third popular workshop held at Silver Dollar City is called Three for One. Participants will learn the secrets of making three different layered main dishes. One of the favorites learned during the class is impressive lasagna.

Other favorite classes include bread baking, weeknight cooking, cooking with zucchini and how to make peanut butter pie.

When you visit the Ozarks, you will eat well. At Silver Dollar City, you can learn to make that food at home, so you will be able to impress your family and friends.

Ozark Mountains: America’s Deep Back Country

admin — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Rolling forests filled with lakes, streams, and countless caves make up what is known as the Ozark Mountains. The Ozark mountains includes a large portion of the northern and northwestern part of Arkansas, a portion of southern Missouri, northeastern Oklahoma, and the extreme southeastern portion of Kansas.

The Ozarks is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts from boating, hunting, hiking along trails and through the many different caves. Fishing is abundant in the six different lakes that are available. But the Ozarks are not just for those that love the outdoors, as there are other things to do as well. Silver Dollar City and Dogpatch U.S.A are great family theme amusement parks, and they also incorporate many of the traditions of the Ozark people. Many of skits, music performances, and even arts & crafts of the local people are showcased. Square dances are very popular with those that live in the Ozarks as well as the very familiar Ozark Folktales that have been passed from generation to generation. Branson, Missouri is still a very large tourist spot for those loving the music entertainment and the down home feel that Ozarks has to offer.

Ozarks is also home to not only dairy and crop farming, but provides much of the poultry eaten today. I am sure that all are very familiar with the fact that the home of the largest discount store in the world originates from the mountains of the Ozarks.

So as you can see, the Ozarks has much to offer for every member of the family from entertainment, shopping, fishing, and just everyday relaxing.

Wildlife and Nature in the Ozark Mountains

admin — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Among the beautiful setting of dogwood, hickory, maple, apple and oak trees, lies the world of wildlife in the Ozark mountain area. Hiking through the Ozarks, a black bear is often seen in some areas, however the species is rare in other portions of the mountainous terrain. Once threatened by extinction, the mountain lion shows its tan coat and golden eyes through the tree and rock setting.

Plains bison can be found grazing on the grass or sipping from the cool waters of the mountain streams. Caribou, wolves and moose were once scarce, as hunting and poaching practices dropped them in numbers. Now, thanks to conservation procedures and laws, the animals are protected and their population is on the steady incline. The white tailed deer is normally seen in numbers, eating the cool grass found in a meadow or plains area.

Fewer in number due to hunting, the bobcat, coyote, red and gray foxes are occasionally spotted in the Ozarks. They are under protective laws now as well and are slowly gaining in number.

Reptiles are found slithering through the wooded areas or in the flatter grounds to sun bathe. The timber rattlesnake or the more common garter snake have survived in this area for generations. Traveling toward the streams and lakes, visitors find the walleye or small-mouth bass swimming along in the clear waters of the Ozarks. At night, the Ozark big-eared bat swoops around in the sky, landing in the nearby trees. Ozark hellbenders may startle visitors, as the large, salamander looking creature heads towards the cool water after sitting in the warm sun. Cave fish are located in the darker, rocky areas of the streams and are still doing well in population.

Exploring the Ozarks Rugged Beauty and Natural Wonders

admin — Sun, 10 Jul 2011 00:00:00 +0000

The rugged Ozark Mountains are actually a series of raised plateaus that are sometimes called Ozark Plateau. Their rugged appearance is a result of the erosion of swift river water. The plateaus are composed of limestone and dolomite. They feature rocky, desert like areas that are home to plants and animals usually found in more southwestern locations. This area encompasses almost 47,000 square miles, and is comprised of portions of Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Kansas. Some of the highest peaks are over 2500 feet high. There are also thousands of caves, complete with cave tours and spelunking adventures.
The forests cover over 1,020,000 acres and are home to numerous varieties of wildlife. There are hundreds of miles of scenic drives, hiking and multiple use trails available for horseback riding, mountain bikes and OHVs. Many cabins and camping areas are popular lodging options. Certain locations are designated as protected wilderness areas for endangered species.
A nature wonderland of streams and rivers feature clear water, much of it spring fed, waterfalls, gravel bars, and deep holes perfect for canoeing and tubing. There are many fish hatcheries along springs and waterways. The lakes are home to many varieties of game fish. Fishing, boating, swimming, picnicking and camping are available.