Only in OKlahoma Show

I conifer you a discount on camping puns.

Today we are discussing Lake Wister State Park in Wister, OK.

A gateway to the beautiful Ouachita National Forest, Lake Wister State Park in southeast Oklahoma offers five camping areas around the 115 miles of scenic shoreline. This outdoor haven offers park visitors a variety of activities including hiking, camping, biking, boating and water skiing on the 7,300 surface acres of Lake Wister. As an added bonus, the park is also equipped with a water spray park, a popular destination for children and adults alike.

Nestled in a ring of pine and oak covered mountains: the Sans Bois, Jackforks, Kiamichis and Ouachitas, lodging facilities at Lake Wister State Park include 15 cabins, RV sites with full hook-ups or some with water and electric only, and tent sites. All RV and tent sites must be reserved online. Book one of the 15 cozy cabins within the park and enjoy lake or park view cabins complete with stone-framed fireplaces and easy access to hiking trails.

The park's one or two-bedroom cabins, surrounded by groves of dogwood, wild cherry and northern spruce, accommodate four to six guests and feature one to two queen-size beds in each bedroom with linens, sleeper sofas and a 32-inch flat screen TV. Each cabin also comes complete with kitchen, restroom with shower and air conditioning. Please keep in mind that dishes and cookware are no longer stocked in the cabins. Two cabins have accessible main and bathroom entrances, and pets are welcome to stay in a select number of cabins at the park for a daily pet fee. Lake Wister State Park also offers a fully-equipped group camp that can accommodate up to 100 visitors and includes a full kitchen and dining hall.

Lake Wister State Park welcomes wildlife watchers, nature photographers and anyone wishing to escape into the great outdoors. Hunters will enjoy the nearby Wister Wildlife Management Area. A waterfowl area is also located within close proximity to the park. The Poteau River, Oklahoma's only river that flows north, feeds into Lake Wister along with the Fourche Maline and a half dozen or more mountain streams provided fresh cool water perfect for fishing. An abundance of northern bluegill, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, smallmouth and largemouth bass are available for the angler.

Facilities at the park include comfort stations with showers, picnic tables, group picnic shelters, lighted boat ramps, an unlighted gravel ramp, playgrounds and a swimming beach. Challenge friends and family to a round of miniature golf at the park's miniature golf course. Hiking trails include a self-guided nature trail and a 6.4-mile hiking trail that takes visitors into the surrounding wilderness to view wildlife such as deer, ducks and rabbits. During the winter months, wintering golden and bald eagles can be seen soaring overhead.

Wister is located in central Le Flore County and in the northern portion of the Ouachita National Forest near Lake Wister, which the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers created between 1946 and 1949. U.S. Highways 270 and 271 pass through the town. McAlester is located fifty-five miles almost due west, and the Oklahoma-Arkansas border lies twenty miles east of Wister.

Within a few decades of the 1830s Choctaw removal from Mississippi to Indian Territory, the population in the future Le Flore County area had greatly increased. By the second half of the nineteenth century the Choctaw and the whites who joined them had developed an economy that required railroad services. In 1866, after the Civil War, a treaty between the Choctaw Nation and the federal government permitted railroads to build through the territory. They became an integral part of the economy, transporting coal, timber, livestock, farming, and other products, as well as passengers.

Also discussed: Onlyinokshow,  Travelok and Washita Valley Community News.

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How does a train avoid detection?

It covers its tracks.

Today we are discussing the Southern Belle Restaurant in Heavener, OK.

Stop by Southern Belle Restaurant in Heavener to chow down on traditional southern cooking. You’ll find tasty steaks, burgers, fish, sandwiches and pork chops, all prepared in a down-home fashion, on the menu. For a real treat, pair your main course with a sweet potato topped with caramel and marshmallow. Be sure to try the house specialty, the Southern Belle Chicken, a boneless chicken breast marinaded in a secret house dressing, then dipped in batter and fried, and served with a special dipping sauce. It comes with a potato, bread and a trip to the salad bar. For dessert, try a slice of decadent homemade pie or cheesecake with flavors inspired by the season.

The restaurant is housed in a refurbished 1905 railcar. A passenger train that traveled the Kansas City Southern Railway and previously transported WWII soldiers, the Southern Belle was discontinued in 1969 and was later restored to its present-day glory by local train buffs.

Located in Le Flore County, Heavener is situated on State Highway 128 and on U.S. Highway 59/270, approximately twelve miles south of Poteau, the county seat. Lying within the former Choctaw Nation, Heavener is named for Joseph H. Heavener, who arrived in 1877 and was one of the area's earliest white settlers. He and others, including Sam Wilson, farmed on Choctaw permits. In 1880 Zachary Taylor Ward and his wife, Tabitha Hickman Ward, a Choctaw Indian, moved their store at Skullyville to present Heavener. This began the settlement. Ward died in 1883, and Tabitha married Heavener. The couple owned the land on which the town was established. Prior to the town's christening as Heavener, the area was known by several different names, including Prairie of the Tall Grass, Choctaw City, Prairie View, Long Prairie, and Grand Prairie.

Good land drew farmers to the area and assisted in Heavener's growth. In 1885 a cotton gin and gristmill were built, and soon other businesses began moving in. Floyd Wilson established a subscription school. In 1886 Sam Lucas established a community church, the settlement's first. By 1889 Dr. Salather C. Capp practiced as the first doctor. The Commercial Hotel was built about that time. In 1895, after a vote of the local residents, the town became Heavener. In 1896 the Kansas City, Pittsburg and Gulf Railroad built tracks through the town. A post office was established in a boxcar on May 12, 1896. Simon W. Woods served as the first postmaster. Another boxcar served as the train station. In 1900–1901 the Arkansas Western Railroad constructed tracks from Heavener east to Arkansas.

Heavener expanded because of transportation access. After the Curtis Act (1898) allowed Indian Territory's municipalities to operate under federal guidelines, the town incorporated in 1898, with E. W. Moore the first mayor. In 1899 Harvey Wise became the first peace officer. In 1900 the population stood at 234. In 1901 the town was platted. After the Kansas City Southern Railway purchased the rail line in 1900, in 1910 the company established a roundhouse, making Heavener a division point. As a result, the town grew. In that year the first bank opened. In 1910 the population was 780, and by 1911 Heavener had two banks, two newspapers, and all of the amenities of a growing city. The population jumped to 1,850 in 1920.

The region benefited from the mining and timber industries. Heavener hosted the Burnett Lumber Company's sawmill from 1935 until it burned in 1981. In 1930 the U.S. Census reported a population of 2,269, which declined to 2,103 in 1950. In 1960 the Heavener Charcoal Company began operation, shipping charcoal from its kilns to a plant in Arkansas. In 1970, when Oklahoma officials dedicated the nearby Heavener Runestone State Park, the population was 2,566.

In the late twentieth century poultry farming took precedence as an economic activity. Poultry farmers in the Heavener area raise millions of chickens each year. In 1986 OK Foods established a poultry hatchery at the town. In 1992 the company opened a processing plant and in 1995 a feed mill for the farmers who supply the plant with chickens. These enterprises provide employment for many local residents, as well as for a large number of Hispanics who have migrated to Heavener to work. In 2000 the number of inhabitants stood at 3,201, with 23.5 percent of them being Hispanic. The 2010 census recorded 3,414 residents, of whom 41.3 were of Hispanic ethnicity.

Also discussed: Onlyinokshow,  Travelok, Men’s Journal and Riversport OKC.

 

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I have a dirty story about a couple of chickens in a motel room...

It's just two fowl to discuss

 

Today we are discussing the Classen Inn in Oklahoma City, OK.

 

Located in the heart of Oklahoma City, Classen Inn offers more than just an overnight stay, but a unique experience echoing the surrounding neighborhood's vibrant history. Built in 1963 and renovated in 2020, this quirky motor motel features nostalgic design that captures the building's original retro vibe. Walk in any direction outside of the hotel and you’re just a few minutes away from thriving art scenes, live music and a variety of culinary destinations.

This building is a prime example of Googie architecture, with a shape inspired by the geometry and space-infused design of the early-to-mid 20th century. Choose from four colorful rooms with custom murals, premium linens, high-end finishes and contemporary comfort. Classen Inn also houses a vibrant snack bar and lounge. Whether it’s tasty snacks and treats or kitschy knick-knacks, The Superette has everything you never knew you needed. Stop in for a mid-day break or a late-night beer. In warmer months, be sure to enjoy Classen Inn's outdoor patio.

Oklahoma City embodies the Modern Frontier and defines its own future. A young city steeped in Native American and Western culture, openness, and an enterprising nature, OKC embraces its roots and continues to pave the way as a center of innovation and entrepreneurship.

 

Also discussed: Onlyinokshow,  Travelok, Creek Bottom Burgers & BBQ, Howdy’s Travel Plaza and KFOR.

 

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No cheesy jokes, because it's gouda brie a good day.

Today we are discussing the Amish Cheese House in Chouteau, OK.

The Amish Cheese House in a 7,200-square-foot building houses a family-owned restaurant featuring delicious sandwiches made from freshly baked bread, tasty meats and dozens of cheeses from the local Amish community, as well as those in Ohio and Pennsylvania. Not sure what to have? No problem – take advantage of the free samples. But don’t leave without loading up on the other fine products, ranging from homemade noodles and fudge to cider and cheese balls. Better yet, take home a gift set for a friend or loved one.

Chouteau is located in the old Cooweescoowee District of the Cherokee Nation in southern Mayes County. It has an altitude of 627 feet. Chouteau is a gateway to the eastern Oklahoma lake area, featuring Fort Gibson Lake, Upper and Lower Spavinaw Lakes, the Lake of the Cherokees (Grand Lake), and the Lake Hudson Recreational Area. State Highway 412 (Cherokee Turnpike) and U.S Highway 69 intersect just south of town.

In 1871, when the Missouri, Kansas and Texas Railway built its line across Indian Territory, Chouteau became a terminus. Riley W. Lindsey, the first agent, was also the first settler. Chouteau grew into a thriving cattle town, and residents built a fence around its limits to keep the herds out of the streets. Gates were conveniently located, and parents escorted their children safely to and from downtown. Many of the early citizens lived in tents, and they too built fences to keep out cattle.

The town had to be rebuilt after a fire in 1891, and in 1985 much of the business district was again destroyed by fire. Businesses moved to the east side of Highway 69. In 1880 Lindsey provided the land and financed Chouteau's first school, a subscription school, housed in a one-room building. In later years the school was razed, and a larger, two-story, wood-frame building was erected on the same site, sheltering another subscription school. Several denominations used these facilities for church services, and citizens used them for various town meetings. Today the Chouteau-Mazie School District comprises kindergarten through grade twelve and operates with a staff of fifty-eight teachers and administrators.

The town's population has varied, ranging from 483 in 1900 and 541 in 1920 to a twentieth-century low of 400 in 1940. The number of inhabitants rebounded to 1,046 in 1970 and grew to 1,771 in 1990. By 2000 the town sheltered a population of 1,931, and the 2010 census reported 2,097 inhabitants. Chouteau has supported twelve churches of various denominations. The United Methodist is the oldest congregation, and the First Presbyterian the oldest church building, dedicated on July 10, 1898. The Farmers and Merchants Bank (NR 83002091) and the Territorial Commercial District of Chouteau, Main Street, (NR 83002093) are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. With the location of the Mid-American Industrial Area between Chouteau and Pryor, a Chouteau Hills housing addition has added approximately 170 new homes. Many residents prefer to live in the small community and to commute to work in the larger towns and cities. State Highway 412 and U.S. Highway 69 provide easy access for commuters.

Also discussed: Onlyinokshow,  Travelok, Oklahoma Historical Society, and FOX 25 News.

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Espresso may not solve all your problems But it’s worth a shot   Today we are discussing the Manvel Avenue Coffee Co in Chandler, OK.   Manvel Avenue Coffee Co operates out of a recently restored 1920s building in downtown Chandler. Stop by this local coffee shop for a taste of 1920s style mixed with modern-day amenities like fast Wi-Fi. Caffeinate with a handcrafted cappuccino, latte or tea, and supplement sweet sips with homebaked cinnamon rolls, muffins and scones. Alternating between house blends of coffee and locally roasted Topeca coffee beans, guests can enjoy fresh tastes and unique flavors. Come in on a special afternoon or evening, and enjoy live entertainment in between drinks.     Chandler was settled by its own land run on September 28, 1891 and now sits at the midway point along Route 66 between Oklahoma City and Tulsa. Full of opportunities to better understand Oklahoma’s past, you can experience the Mother Road through the decades at the Chandler Route 66 Interpretative Center. Visitors can also learn about settler life at the Lincoln County Museum of Pioneer History and get a look at some of the bikes that used to travel on Route 66 dating back to 1908 at the nearby Seaba Station Motorcycle Museum. Experience the great outdoors at Bell Cow Lake & Equestrian Campground, a perfect place for camping and boating, or test your hiking, biking and horseback riding skills along the Bell Cow Lake Trail System. Spend some time on the rolling hills of the Chandler Municipal Golf Course or feel the nostalgia of a 1920s-style cinema experience at the H&S Theatre. With great local events each summer like the annual Chandler Ice Cream Festival and Stone River Music Festival, Chandler is a town along Route 66 you’ll want to visit again and again.       Also discussed: Onlyinokshow,  Travelok, Daily Oklahoman, and Dino Lalli.   Subscribe to the Only in OK Show.     #TravelOK #onlyinokshow #Oklahoma #MadeinOklahoma #oklaproud #podcast #okherewego #traveloklahoma

It's time to paddy like the Irish do!   Today we are discussing The Black Raven Irish Pub in Harrah, OK.   Stop in to the Black Raven and enjoy an authentic Irish pub, right in the heart of historic Harrah. Taste the Emerald Isle with pub standards like a Scotch egg or Guinness chips- Irish chips blanketed in Guinness cheddar sauce. Continue your experience with traditional favorites such as fish-n-chips, shepherd pie, corned beef cabbage or bangers and mash. The pub kitchen also features other Irish staples like shepherd pie filling, bangers or Guinness cheddar.   Pub food and draft beer go together like bangers and mash or fish and chips. Of course, Guinness tops the tap list here, but the Dublin brew is seconded closely by Harp, Smithwick’s, Strongbow Cider and Killian’s Red. The bar keep to pull several traditional beer mixes such as an All-Irish Black & Tan, Black Castle, Snake Bite or Half & Half. If none of these fit the bill, choose a brew from their extensive bottle list, including a selection of root and ginger beers.   In true pub fashion, Black Raven hosts a regular selection of weekly bands, so order up a pint and enjoy a song or three.     Harrah calls itself the "best kept secret in Eastern Oklahoma County" with all the hospitality of a small town while be close to the city attractions. If you enjoy gaming, stop in at the Kickapoo Casino and test your luck on the slots and blackjack table, and don't miss the annual Harrah Day celebration full of family fun that celebrates the founding of the town.     Also discussed: Onlyinokshow,  Travelok, Route 66 and Tulsa People.   Subscribe to the Only in OK Show.     #TravelOK #onlyinokshow #Oklahoma #MadeinOklahoma #oklaproud #podcast #okherewego #traveloklahoma #rt66

Creek Bottom Burgers and BBQ - Newcastle, Oklahoma

 

Fried Onion Smash Burger, Hand Cut Fries, 

 Brisket, Pulled Pork, & Ribs

Why should you never BBQ on your roof? The steaks are too high.   Today we are discussing Jigg's Smokehouse in Clinton, OK.   For smoked meat lovers, it doesn't get any better than Jigg’s. Founded in the early 1970s, this restaurant serves towering sandwiches stuffed with some delicious combinations. Try the kitchen sink, a combination of beef summer sausage, smoked ham and pork link sausage, along with mayo, cheddar cheese, tomato relish and the house barbecue sauce. Not enough for you? How about the wooly burger, a mammoth concoction featuring a staggering 31 ounces of hickory-smoked ham and seven slices of beef summer sausage, finished with mayo, chow chow relish, cheddar cheese and the house barbecue sauce. https://jiggssmokehouse.com/location.html   Known as the “Hub City of Western Oklahoma,” Clinton has become a major city along Route 66 and is home to the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum. Let the audio tour and exhibits guide you through over sixty years of history, catch a movie at the drive-in theater or browse replicas of 1950s-style diner replicas and antique cars. After touring the museum, stop by the gift shop located in the world’s largest curio cabinet, where you can pick up a keepsake before continuing your journey on the Mother Road. Other must-see Clinton attractions include the Cherokee Trading Post & Boot Outlet, Lucky Star Casino Clinton and Acme Brick Park, which contains nearly 150 acres of family fun, including the nature trail and miniature train. The Water-Zoo Indoor Water Park is a year-round destination for splashing, swimming and relaxing by the pool during any season. See all Clinton has to offer including wineries, cultural centers and Native American attractions just off Route 66. https://clintonok.gov/   Also discussed: Onlyinokshow,  Travelok and The Oklahoman.   Subscribe to the Only in OK Show. https://onlyinokshow.com/   #TravelOK #onlyinokshow #Oklahoma #MadeinOklahoma #oklaproud #podcast #okherewego #traveloklahoma #rt66

Why did the chicken cross the road?   Today we are discussing the Chicken Shack in Luther, OK.   The Chicken Shack specializes in delicious broasted chicken in a down-home atmosphere. This Arcadia restaurant maintains a smaller menu of options to truly focus in on the dishes they create best. The "Backyard Outdoor Venue" also offers plenty of live entertainment, including car shows and live music to enjoy while munching on onion rings, gizzards, broasted pork chops and wings of many flavors. Save room for desserts like banana cake, lemon pie or ice cream.     Luther, OK is located in far northeastern Oklahoma County on historic Route 66, and is home to the historic Threatt Filling Station.     Also discussed: Onlyinokshow,  Travelok News on 6 - Tulsa, Muskogee & the Sam Noble Museum.   Subscribe to the Only in OK Show.     #TravelOK #onlyinokshow #Oklahoma #MadeinOklahoma #oklaproud #podcast #okherewego #traveloklahoma #chicken #rt66