No visit to the Lake of the Ozarks is complete without a visit to the nostalgic Dogpatch store. Dogpatch has been operating continuously longer than any other store at the Lake, and will celebrate 80 years in business in 2027.
Its story begins in 1947, when Walt Tietmeyer came to the Lake after WWII and created the original business. Dogpatch began as a gas station and tourist stop that featured a restaurant and Ozarks souvenirs for travelers coming to the area.
Originally themed around Appalachian hillbillies Li’l Abner, inspiration for the store came from the Ozarks culture prior to the construction of the Bagnell Dam. Back in the day, attractions included piano playing chickens, a snake pit, a talking outhouse, and at one point a lion.
As the Lake grew, so did the store. By the 1950’s and 1960’s, Dogpatch became a known tourist attraction, drawing thousands of visitors annually. Through the years, the store had a number of different owners and changed locations on the Strip, but remained an icon at the Lake. It’s a place where generations of visitors have returned with their children and grandchildren.
Mike Page purchased the store in 1993 and remained the owner until January of 2025. He described Dogpatch as “a nostalgic escape, a place where one can step back in time.” Page said the unique experience the store provides is the reason for its success.
Jason Van Houten is the current owner of Dogpatch and is continuing the tradition. Other than some aesthetic changes, including a new roof installed this year, he doesn’t plan on changing what has proven to work over the years.
Known for its unique and nostalgic items and atmosphere, Dogpatch provides a taste of Ozarks history. The 10,000 square foot store has maintained its charming, rustic feel over the years and continues to tempt shoppers with gifts, novelties, Lake of the Ozarks souvenirs, and so much more. New this year, Van Houten has introduced the Dogpatch brand of sodas, jellies, and Dogpatch t-shirts. He plans to stock more branded items in the future. The sales room, he explained, will be home to garden, dock, and home decor items.
Prior to purchasing the store, Van Houten worked as a golf pro at Osage National. Although it was a role he loved, purchasing the store was a leap he was happy he took.
“I loved being a golf pro, but I wish I had made this move years ago,” he said. “I love being here. We have the best employees, and I can’t believe how lucky I am to be surrounded by great people. Everyday I meet someone new and I hear stories about how they came here as a kid. It’s nice to be a part of history. I plan on doing this as long as I can.”
