Whass Up? – Our New Store Expansion!

After two summers of, “What are you building on the side of your store?” We are ready to do more than tell, it’s time to show! This winter, the crew at Ozark Outdoors is working hard to make this a reality! Estimates, measurements, meetings, drawings, and headaches have come and gone, but the plan is set, and we’re ready to rock and roll!

Whass Up? The foundation; a concrete slab covers the yard next to the store.

Eyes on the prize – The gentlemen of OORR can’t wait to see your face when you come to visit this summer. Our expansion will pave way for a more efficient check-in process, more store merchandise, and a more comfortable atmosphere at Ozark Outdoors. Even the dogs, our team mascots, help make sure everything measures up properly.


Whass Up? Walls of timber standing tall on the west side of the building to make way for the incoming addition.

The expansion is here ~ Stay tuned for continuous updates. Be part of the action, check back regularly, and watch our resort grow! It’s all because of you, our valued guests, we work hard so you and your family can escape and have fun!

Whass Up? Our appreciation. Without people who love nature as much as we do, we wouldn’t have friends to share it with. Thank you!

You can see these and more picture on our Facebook page.

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The 2009 Christmas Extravaganza Was A Huge Success!

With paths of garland and streams of lights outlining the Meramec Mercantile and Confluence Center, the Crew diligently put the finishing touches on this year’s Christmas Extravaganza. Though almost December, the temperatures neared 70, making conditions perfect for an afternoon float. Thirty-eight of Missouri’s finest Meramec River paddlers met here to embark on a 5 mile trip from Ozark Outdoors to Campbell Bridge. Believe it or not, while sitting on the bank snapping a few photos, swimsuits began to appear in November.
While the Indian sun was ripening their noses, turkeys were basting, rolls were rising and deserts were cooling, preparing to be a feast for many. Dozens of staff, customers, family and friends gathered around together and honored the blessing of the food, engaged in interesting fellowship, played a few games, shared stories of the year past and danced the night away!
Throughout the evening, a slideshow played reminding all who attended what a fantastic year we had. Every single person in the Confluence Center had made a difference to this industry. If you weren’t able to make it down for this year’s Extravaganza, then we encourage you to do your best to join us next year. Between a perfect float trip and a perfect dinner, the next best thing is to have you there with us!

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Our First Frost

For several weeks, Indian Summer has graced us with her warmth and beauty. However, it was only a matter of time before Cold would sneak in and nip our noses, allowing Frost to sting everything within reach. As chilly as Winter sounds, Summer can not compete with its dazzle and splendor.Surprised to find everything covered in white, I raced to work to catch a few still shots before the sun’s rays stole the blanket of diamonds. Walking through the fields was nothing short of a field of glitter. The sun and I both could not wait to reach down and touch Mother Nature’s riches.

Cold and Frost will continue to knock on our front doors for months ahead. Don’t ignore it; embrace it. Wrap yourself in warmth, fill up your thermos, put on an extra pair of socks, and welcome these friends with open arms.

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Marty's Legacy

We appreciate stories from customers who share our passion for the outdoors. One group in particular loved our surroundings, so they made it the spot for an annual memorial to their dear friend, Marty.



Marty was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed the sanctity of the Meramec River. He loved spending time with nature and rode his Harley every chance he got. He camped and floated during the summer and snuggled with loved ones next to campfires when fall chilled the night air.

This summer, Marty’s family and friends joined once again to honor his legacy. Twenty-three people from varied backgrounds came down for this special weekend. They arrived on Harleys and wore biker attire to celebrate Marty’s life. A brief memorial service by the Meramec River commemorated his impact on those present.


Afterwards, they enjoyed Marty’s favorite meal prepared by the Ozark Outdoor staff: fried chicken, corn, green beans and a dinner roll. They ended their evening huddled around a huge bonfire and shared memories of their beloved friend.


Marty’s spirit remains strong at Ozark Outdoors. He loved bright, summer days on the river and cool, starlit nights by the fire. If you visit Ozark Outdoors, you’ll find a black memorial ribbon hung on one of the front porch trusses, a ribbon of strength, friendship and love. The ribbon reminds us that one person can make a difference; Marty did.
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Deer Season Is Here!

6am – I woke up this morning, completely refreshed and ready to start moving. It’s opening day of rifle season, and I can’t be more excited! Although I can’t hunt today, I will definitely strap on my camouflage and join the adventure this week.

I passed several vehicles with passengers covered in orange from head to toe, only small pieces of camouflage showing. One gentleman was parked next to his trophy, grinning from ear to ear, as I passed by.

The drive to work reminded me of the vivid oranges I photographed just weeks before when the autumn leaves changed colors. Every hunter is required to be 1/3 covered in orange as a safety measure, and I’m extremely glad they follow those guidelines!

When I got to Ozark Outdoors, I wondered if any of the hunters I passed were camping and lodging with us. Around 10am, one of our customers, dressed in camouflage and bright orange, stopped in the office to show us the button buck he had just shot.

It makes me feel good to know we can provide a place for hunters to stay next to hundreds of Huzzah Conservation Area acres, free to anyone with a valid tag. It’s another way to enjoy the gift of nature’s bounty..

I invite you to spend your days in the sanctity of the outdoors and your evenings around a campfire. Share the story of the 30-pointer you saw, but couldn’t get the trigger set in time. Deer season is here at Ozark Outdoors; the coffee is hot, the cabins are warm, and orange abounds. Tell me your story, and I’ll tell you mine :-)

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The Sound of Music

Last night, clasps of thunder and rays of lightening filled the sky as the rain fell from the darkened clouds to quench the thirst of hundreds of miles of Ozark vegetation. The dry, humid air fell quickly to a chilly fog. It is funny how everyone seems to sleep better when it’s raining, but why is this so common? Is it because the sound of heavy wind mixed with a reoccurring pattern of water droplets reminds us of a soft lullaby? Is it because the smell of fresh rain and crisp, clean air threads comfort through our veins? The natural music of nature is so unique that no other song can compare.

As I was listening to the rain slowly dissipate around 6am this morning, I couldn’t help but compare each sound to the instrument in a band; the water droplets a steady drum, the wind a multitude of strings, the dissolving crashes of thunder an unexpected guitar. Each sound had its specific purpose. Kind of makes you think, doesn’t it?


It’s nice to be able to wear a long sleeved shirt to work and not have to roll up your sleeves halfway through the day. Now that the heat wave of the summer is finally over, the warmth of a sweatshirt is finally comfortable. Soon everyone will be trading in their flip flops and tank tops for flannel shirts and boots, but that doesn’t mean our outdoor fun is over. Snuggle up next to someone you love in front of a warm campfire, fill your thermos with hot chocolate, and take a late-night hayride. The comforting music of the outdoors will keep you satisfied throughout the year.

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The Sun Might Be Beautiful, but Boy Does She Sting!

As the water falls and temperatures climb, my sun soaked skin thirsts for high SPF block in Leasburg. Finally....clear water, blue skies and hot temps at Ozark Outdoors...YES!

My entire body needs color, but I know the dangers of UVA and UVB rays, so I'm taking precautions with good sunscreen and plenty of it. My white legs need blush, but hold the red please. I want a tan, but it's not worth the long-term damage to get it, so pass the sun screen and I'll slather it on!

I love the sun's positive effects like warmth, light and immunity boosting vitamin D3 synthesis in my body. Sunshine also enhances my mood and kills pathogens. Finding the happy-medium between healthy sunlight and damaging UV rays makes me a happy camper.

It's going to be a scorcher this weekend, so cover up and cool off at the river. A golden glow is the finishing touch to a great outdoors experience!

This past weekend, I witnessed dozens and dozens of floaters and campers with skin-damaging sun burns, and it reminds me how precious our skin is. We were given our skin to protect our bodies, and when our skin is damaged, our bodies are vulnerable to damage. My teeth cringe and my skin tightens when I see all of those sunburns!

So take care of your skin this summer! I hope to see you soon!

Life in the Fast Lane!

Let’s Talk Express Lane!

Who ever thought that it would be possible to check in to a resort as big as Ozark Outdoors by simply providing a few extra details before you arrive? It might seem a little hard to understand at first, but the staff and management at Ozark Outdoors are constantly trying new technologies to benefit our customers from the time they check in to the time they leave. You can qualify yourself for our Express Check-In service so that you can detour your vehicle through the Express Lane and avoid long lines in our store! Here’s how it works:

1. Call a River Fun Guide to make your reservation.
2. Register and Pay for your reservation by vehicle (This is the most important part - Don’t pay for Johnny if Johnny isn’t riding in your car!)
3. Obtain your reservation number from your River Fun Guide.
4. Visit our website: http://www.ozarkoutdoors.net/
5. Click on the “Vehicle Registration” link.
6. Fill out the simple form and email it straight back to us at least a week before your arrival.
7. Receive our email confirmation that you have been registered for Express Check-In.
8. Arrive the same way you registered and enjoy a speedy check-in!

If you have used our Express Check-In service before, let us know how well you liked it! You can share those feelings with us on this blog or on our Facebook. Like all new technologies, there will be the occasional kink in the cord, but we are working hard to lessen each of those kinks until we have marked perfection.

Already this year, hundreds of Vehicle Registration Forms have allowed customers to enjoy the benefits of Express Check-In. You can get to your site sooner, set up camp faster, spend more time relaxing and less time sweating and stressing.

If you haven’t tried our Express Check-In process yet, try it next time you come down! We’ll be happy to help you!

Oh the B-e-a-utiful Meramec!

The week has been extremely busy, and my blogging has fallen behind. Here is an update on the river conditions around our place...



The Meramec, Huzzah and Courtois look absolutely fantastic. The storm that rolled through last night didn't rain on our parade. Check this out...

The highest point on the blue line was where the river peaked at last week when I blogged. If you look at the previous post, you will see tha that the Meramec crested at more than 8 feet above normal. Where the line ends is where it is now. See the fluctuation? The Meramec had fallen more than 6 feet in a week. As you can see, the rain the past few days has made the water levels jump up and down, but it's nothing to worry about. There won't be any dragging this weekend!

As long as the rain stays minimal, it will be a perfect weekend for floating. It's going to be a busy weekend, and we are so ready for it!

Take some time off from you daily lives and join us for a relaxing weekend in the outdoors. You won't regret it!

Meramec Overflow Update

All of the recent rain has finally caught up with us at Ozark Outdoors. The rain that drenched Northern Missouri has traveled down the Meramec right into our back yard. Although the water is a little on the high side, its absolutely nothing compared to the floods of recent years. Check out these pictures that I took this morning...

This is normally where you would end your float. Our beach is a tad bit under water.

Meramec River up stream from the take-out bridge.

Scotia bridge - Huzzah Creek

Yup, there's only about 1-2 inches on the bridge.

No floating underneath the bridge today!

There is always a positive outlook to an overdose of rain. Because there was so much rain, stretches of river that we wouldn't even attempt to float in July and August have enough water in them to experience. We put several groups upstream on the Courtois today, and they came back with smiles!

Although the rivers are up today, they could easily be back within their banks tomorrow. The water levels fluctuate at a rate that is mind-boggling. To show you how much they fluctuate, take a look at this graph provided by the USGS:

As you can see, the Meramec has crested, and water levels are already starting to drop. I'll try to have an update on the river conditions tomorrow. In the mean-time, keep soaking up those rays! It's going to be 80 degrees this weekend!

Sunlight...Shine On!

Cool rain finally submitted to the bright rays of summer, and skin kissed by sunlight never felt so good. Last week was pretty bogged down with rain and clouds, but the rain stopped, the clouds cleared, and the Meramec, Huzzah and Courtois fell back to normal. After limiting our guests to “rafts only,” because of water levels, it’s nice to know our customers can come enjoy warm days and soft breezes in the boat of their choice.

Some of our staff were able to take a break before the busy season and enjoyed a few lazy days on the river. They returned with sunburns, tans, and lots of interesting stories. It’s nice to send the entire staff out on the river every now and then. It gives our crew a chance to get to know each other, and be together in a fun setting without work responsibilities. Our mini-trips bond us and allow us to experience the same stretches of water our guests float. We can offer personal guidance and share our paddling stories with customers; something we LOVE to do!

Even if you can’t visit us, please make an effort to find a gravel bar and share the beauty of the outdoors with someone special this weekend. You deserve a relaxing day by the river. Pack a lunch, bring your favorite someone, grab some sunscreen and meet us at Ozark Outdoors Riverfront Resort. Rain or shine – It’s always a great time!

Meramec Overflow

The Meramec River overflowed in a flood that peaked out just above 21 feet along our resort property today. Nothing compared to the March, 2008 surge, but enough to gain attention. The water roared into our campground and discharged debris in its wake.

Just prior to its arrival, our employees teamed to load equipment, tools, supplies, and anything else not nailed down, to prepare for the worst. Thankfully, this time a typical spring deluge meant the worst didn't arrive. We all breathed a sigh of relief when we didn't have to clear out our Mercantile store.

Floods are an odd phenomena; the water recedes as fast as it rises, so two days from now there will be little sign of today's drama. With another investment of sweat on our part, things will be good as new by Wednesday.

This is part and parcel of the unique experience we share at Ozark Outdoors. It's the best of jobs and the worst of jobs, but for us, it's all in a day's work. As our mission statement so aptly puts it, "We work hard so our guests can escape and have fun." We hope you get to appreciate the overflow of our efforts soon.

Paddle for the Cure

The news riveted our attention, even as the shock settled into our bones. Someone we loved became another statistic, another life put on hold to wage war against the monster Cancer. Over the past few months our Ozark Outdoors family has grieved. In the form of tears, encouragement, panic, prayers, and even laughter; our bonds are strengthened. A soul-wrenching combat knits our hearts in a unified cause - to stand shoulder to shoulder so we can win a hard-fought victory.

In less than a month we will host our First Annual Paddle for the Cure event. We invite you to stand with us. This is personal, and we want to help others in a similar predicament. Come help us celebrate the lives of those valiant warriors who fight the good fight.

May 16, 2009 promises to be a day of hope as we walk together, paddle together, eat together and play together. It promises to be a day of love and friendship; a day none of us will ever forget."

Regret not a life of trial and failure, but a life of failure to try."

Life Worth Living

I woke up this morning to the sweet sound of birds singing outside my window. Their harmonies promise warm weather, fresh breezes and renewed energy. Like a snake charmer they mesmerize me with their melody, and I find it easier to rise and meet the day.

I poured a brisk cup of coffee, stepped onto my front porch, and breathed deeply of rich soil and new grass. I took in the sight of my cherry tree in full blossom, and the blanket of fuchsia flowers on my Red bud. Both danced in the wind as I watched with admiration. And all the while, my ears were treated to another chorus from an array of birds who call my trees home. I love springtime in Missouri!

There are two times of year when I especially enjoy my drive back and forth to Leasburg. Spring and fall. The tone of colors are vastly different, but each one stimulates creativity none the less. In March and April I appreciate the pinks, greens and whites sprinkled throughout the hills in our area. As the temperatures rise, the whole world comes alive after a long winter of hibernation.

Once I arrive at work, I step out of my vehicle, and I'm greeted by a new song. The music of birds who call Ozark Outdoors home. There is one small difference here. The welcoming sound of our feathered troupe carries across the water, and the symphony magnifies and reverberates around the resort. Nothing compares to the energy generated by the river.

I long to hop in a canoe, float down the river, and let nature soothe my winter-worn soul. However, the door of opportunity only opens a short time, and allows me entry to the unique pleasures of spring. I hope I don't miss it and I hope you don't either. It's time to celebrate spring in Missouri, God's best, life worth living!

Ozark Outdoors + Spring = FUN!

The rise in temperature brings a rise in energy. It thrills us to see campers, lodgers and floaters cross our threshhold to experience the great outdoors. Singing birds, warm breezes, blue skies and fluffy white clouds fill the air. What a beautiful world we enjoy!

It's the time of year when a walk around the resort makes you breathe deeper and count your blessings. With so much bad news floating in the air, it's nice to remember good things and show gratitude for them. The smiles on our guests faces lets us know they are doing the same.

We were team training yesterday when a father walked in to take his children on a last minute float trip. You could hear the excitement in his voice and each time we see this kind of reaction it inspires us. To watch people make lifetime memories is an honor.

The phones are ringing, we are training, the weather's gorgeous, and the river's fabulous. Just like 1+1=2, this adds up to a wonderful time for our guests. The forecast is magnificent, so give us a call and get outside so you can breathe deeply the things of spring.

Don't miss the budding trees, blooming flowers, and fresh air unique to this time of year. Get outside and make your own memory; we're waiting to help you write the equation. Ozark Outdoors + Spring = F-U-N!

Be a Sport - Don't Import!

Federal and State conservation officials are concerned with the Emerald Ash Borer. Yet many other silent killers are on the list of potential environmental destructors. Disease and pestilence are often carried on the backs of wood cut and sold for camping. This makes the movement of firewood from one location to another a bad idea.

Even with the most cautious actions, our guests could inadvertantly bring deadly hitchhikers onto our grounds. As a result, we plead for your help. In our continuous efforts to be part of the Go Green solutions geared to save our environment, we ask you to do your part. Please do not bring imported firewood to Ozark Outdoors.

If we all work together we can save countless trees and other priceless natural resources. Thank you for caring about Missouri and our planet! Thank you for being our guest!!!

Emerald Ash Borer

I last spoke about Missouri's silent killer, the Emerald Ash Borer. I promised to tell you how it impacts you. Being a woman of my word, "Let's talk."

The voracious insect migrated across the ocean in cargo ships or airplanes arriving from Asia. He hitchhiked in crates of imported goods. He made his presence known to the U.S. in Southeastern Michigan during the summer of 2002. Between 2003 and 2007 he reared his ugly head in Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Missouri and Virginia were unceremoniously added to the list in 2008.

He killed tens of millions of ash trees in Michigan alone. Federal quarantines of ash, logs and other hardwoods are in place for areas where the Emerald Ash Borer infestation occurs. But, "How does all of this affect me?" you might ask.

This tiny terror has cost us plenty, but promises to cost us even more. The price of which will spill directly into your wallet and energy; two of your most precious resources.

*With the utter destruction of millions of trees he depletes our oxygen levels, thereby adding to potential ozone problems. Since we cannot rebuild our ozone layer, we spend billions as a nation looking for alternative solutions. The more photosynthesis options we lose, the more money it costs us.

*As municipal, local, state and national government agencies look for answers they spend our tax dollars. The more widespread the problem, the more money we need to fund them.

*The Emerald Ash Borer concentrates his efforts on the ash family of trees, a popular choice for urban landscapers. It's common beauty is also resplendent in our wild forests. For every tree killed, more time and money have to be spent to replace them with another variety. And since no one wants to feed the monster, we lose the unique quality of the ash, because they cannot be replanted.

*And finally, no one yet knows the long term consequences from losing a viable life source in our global food chain. If this problem continues unchecked, we could see our entire ash population wiped out. Their extinction would certainly affect other life forms around them.

*All of this drills down to the bottom line, "YOU." If you import wood from one location to another, you could potentially violate federal and/or state regulations. This could result in fines or other legal ramifications. As awareness and migration of the Emerald Ash Borer heighten, so could the degree of punishment for those caught unwittingly moving the little varmint.

He may dwarf in size when compared to a copper penny, but his massive bite is felt across our country. Please stay tuned as we talk next time. I beg you to join our efforts at Ozark Outdoors in healing our environment. We need your help!

Exit Wounds

A silent killer is on the loose in Missouri. He ravages communities in neighboring states and his sites are set on us. You haven't heard about him yet? Don't feel alone, his signature modus operandi is not yet public knowledge.

It isn't humans he's after, but he steals, kills and destroys a precious resource. This criminal is best known for boring into the heart of his victim. He tunnels his way just under the skin, stealing life at a torturous rate. Slowly squeezing, until breath ceases to exist. Upon total devasation, he leaves behind a distinctive mark, an exit wound; the only evidence to confirm it was he.

His mode of transportation is even more alarming. He hitchhikes from destination to destination, often unbeknownst to the traveler in whose vehicle he rides. He may be hidden in yours. You can check if you know where to look.

Who is the silent killer who wants to invade Missouri? He is the Emerald Ash Borer and his unique exit wound threatens to sculpt destruction across our wooded landscape. Does it matter to you? It should. How does it affect you? Follow our blog and we'll tell you. Can you make a difference? Absolutely!

Lions and Eagles and Learning

March roared into our lives today. This lioness calls our attention to sunshine, cool temperatures and a promise of spring. The tree buds swell in anticipation, ready to birth their leaves, while tulips peak through the soil flirtatiously. Roar - lioness - roar! We are SO ready for summer at Ozark Outdoors.

Last week we hosted the National Paddlesports Business School in Leasburg, Missouri. We enjoyed an amazing three days of education and networking. We armed ourselves with great ideas, practical solutions, and immediate results. We are pumped to use these tools so we can offer more to our guests!

All of the seminars proved beneficial, but admittedly the best experience was our outdoor classroom on Wednesday. We took advantage of a sixty degree day, manned canoes, taught class on a gravel bar, and floated down the river. Bald eagles escorted us through a long stretch, flying majestically overhead, until they perched in the tree above us. They looked down proudly as we waved at them like children.

It won't be long and every day will allow us to float with the eagles, while warm breezes softly kiss our cheeks. Our stretch along the Meramec River boasts many nests, and we are awed by the presence of our feathered guards.

We hope the roaring lioness of March calls you to summer breezes at Ozark Outdoors. Where eagles float in the air, while you float along the river. May you be energized by your own experience in nature's classroom!