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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