The Story Behind the Jackalope — And Why It Lives at Oakwood
The jackalope.
If you’ve spent any time at Oakwood, you’ve likely spotted our jackalope, a curious, furry creature that feels both familiar and a little…mystical.
The jackalope is a beloved piece of Western folklore, and for us, an important symbol of what Oakwood is all about: elevating the everyday with a little bit of magic.
What Is a Jackalope?
The jackalope, a legendary denizen of the American West, is described as a jackrabbit with antelope horns. It became popularized through tall tales, novelty taxidermy, and roadside folklore.
But beyond the fanciful storytelling, the jackalope represents something deeper. He’s an elusive and playful creature that hops just close enough for us to catch a look, but keeps his distance to quietly and thoughtfully observe the human way of life. He blends the ordinary with the extraordinary, making us look beyond the immediate and wonder what’s possible.
The Jackalope at Oakwood
At Oakwood, the jackalope is an important part of our team, our story, and our mission.
He’s a quiet, playful guardian of our space that lives in the in-between moments, reminding us to pause and enjoy the literal and figurative grass once in a while.
You won’t always see him, but you can feel his presence… hiding in tucked-away corners, perching beside outdoor tables, resting near our cozy booths, and peeking into the colorful storefront windows. Guests say he lingers near the playscape, enjoying the sunshine and the laughter of the kids nearby. Some swear they’ve seen him dart between planters, pausing to nibble on some leaves. Rumor even has it that if you follow him, you’re guaranteed a fun adventure…
We can’t say for sure, but we think the jackalope likes spending time at Oakwood because it really was designed for the things he enjoys most in life. There are wide walkways for wandering, cozy corners for quiet conversations, different spaces that promote darting to and fro, and a patio built to bask in the splendor of that signature Hill Country nature.
The jackalope is a relaxed guy who likes to linger. He’s a little shy, but with a little patience and a few veggies (hummus plate, anyone?), he’ll sit a while with you and soak in the view.
That’s what Oakwood was built for.
Rooted in the Hill Country
The spirit of the jackalope, open and full of possibility, feels right at home in Dripping Springs, Texas. Out here, there’s space to amble, room to gather, and time to enjoy the moment you’re in.
At Oakwood, that shows up in everything: Morning lattes, lunch with friends, happy hour cocktails on the patio, the first bite of a delicious pizza, stunning sunsets, and the many delights in between that lift and brighten our days.
We aim to be not simply a place to visit, but an experience to share and remember.
Come Find Him
The next time you’re at Oakwood, keep an eye out for our friend the jackalope. You might not see him, but you’ll certainly feel his sweet, playful presence. He’s in the laughter, the music, the conversations, the moments that turn into stories, and, most of all, in the natural magic of time spent together.