Civil War Living History at Har-Ber Village & the New OKANA Resort in OKC

Civil War Living History at Har-Ber Village & the New OKANA Resort in OKC

Author: Harley Covington and Brett Manzer March 23, 2026 Duration: 42:54

From the 1860s to a $400 million modern oasis, we're covering the best of Oklahoma's "then and now" in this episode!

Part 1: Step Back in Time at Har-Ber Village Museum

We're heading to the shores of Grand Lake O' the Cherokees in Grove, OK, for Civil War Era Historical Days. Discover the fascinating history of Har-Ber Village, founded by Harvey and Bernice Jones, which evolved from a private retreat into a six-acre pioneer settlement with over 100 exhibits.

Highlights include:

  • Living History: Union and Confederate camps, blacksmithing, and open-hearth cooking.

  • The Conflict in Indian Territory: Understanding the unique, local perspective of the Civil War in Oklahoma.

  • Must-See Stops: The Bass Reeves-linked jail, the Mountain Home Schoolhouse, and the rhythmic mechanics of the 19th-century Print Shop.

  • Nature & Food: The pet-friendly nature trail and the best comfort food at the on-site café.

Part 2: Tropical Luxury at OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark

Next, we shift gears to Oklahoma City's newest crown jewel: OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark. This Chickasaw Nation development is more than just a place to splash—it's a world-class cultural flagship.

Why it's a game-changer for families:

  • The "Elevated" Experience: Why it feels more like a high-end Caribbean resort than a standard theme park.

  • Indigenous Art & Culture: From Mother Earth amenities to Bedré Fine Chocolate and proximity to the First Americans Museum.

  • Family Sanity Hacks: The "Bunk Suites," the 100+ game "Okanarama" arcade, and the convenience of the wristband "purchasing power."

  • Eat & Play: Virtual batting cages at Curveball Kitchen and an axe-throwing speakeasy at Bullseye.

Whether you're looking for a quiet walk through history or a "land-locked cruise ship" vacation, this episode has your next Oklahoma road trip covered!

Links Mentioned:


#OnlyInOK #OklahomaTravel #HarBerVillage #GroveOK #GrandLake #CivilWarHistory #LivingHistory #OKANAResort #OKC #OklahomaCity #ChickasawNation #FamilyVacation #IndoorWaterpark #ExploreOklahoma #TravelOK


Hosts Harley Covington and Brett Manzer invite you to join them on the Only in Oklahoma Show, a podcast dedicated to uncovering the genuine character of the state. This isn't a typical travel guide; it's a series of conversations and explorations focused on the unique people, local spots, and compelling narratives that collectively define Oklahoma's identity. Each episode moves beyond the stereotypes to reveal why the state is a profoundly underrated destination, even to many who live there. You'll hear from community pillars, creative minds, and keepers of history whose stories are woven into the landscape. The podcast digs into the cultural and societal layers that make a place feel like home, covering everything from hidden roadside attractions and regional cuisine to contemporary issues shaping local towns. It’s an audio tour driven by curiosity and a desire to showcase that Oklahoma is far more than just "OK." Tune in for an authentic and engaging perspective that might just change how you see this part of the country, all delivered by the award-winning team behind the microphone.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 50

Only in OKlahoma Show
Podcast Episodes
The 100-Square-Foot Mistake & Oklahoma's Most Adorable Small Towns [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:39
Is it a National Park or a clerical error? In this episode of the Only in OK Show, Brett and Harley dive into the hilarious history of Guthrie's "smallest National Park" and explores the most charming small towns across…
Forget Big Bend! 🌵 Discover Oklahoma's Secret Desert Wilderness [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 50:33
Is Oklahoma hiding a massive desert adventure? 🦬🏜️ In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we're skipping the 8-hour drive to Texas and heading straight to the Charon Gardens Wilderness Area in the Wichita Mountains. If…
Shawnee's Painted Horses [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:37
In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we're exploring the "public art gallery without walls" in Shawnee, Oklahoma. Discover the story behind the Painted Horses, a collection of nearly 40 life-sized fiberglass masterpie…
Chasing Stars at Black Mesa & The Future of Tinker AFB [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:51
Discover the "Gold Standard" of the Great Plains. In this episode of the Only in OK Show, Brett and Harley take you to the furthest corner of the Panhandle to celebrate a historic milestone: Black Mesa State Park has off…
The Christmas Extravaganza [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:46
In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we discuss our plans for Christmas this year. We also give a festive review of Ralphie's in downtown Chickasha, located in the historic El Chedos/The Outpost building. Highlights o…
🎄 Oklahoma Christmas Guide: Traditions, Lights, & Festive Fun! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:00:26
Welcome to "The Only in OK Show" definitive guide to Christmas time in Oklahoma! Hosts Brett and Harley take you on a festive journey through the Sooner State's unique holiday customs, events, and traditions. What Makes…