Reviving a Legacy: Why Our Needles Jerky Shop Is the Best Stop on Route 66

Just over two years ago, I took over the Needles location of what used to be my dad’s jerky shop—a place with deep roots and even deeper flavor. When I arrived, the floors were worn down, the pegboards were outdated, and the store had lost some of its charm. But the bones were still good. And more importantly—the memories were still alive.

I knew people remembered Gus.
They remembered the jerky.
And they used to stop on their way to the river, without fail.

So I went all in—and gave the shop the love it deserved.

?️ We Gave It a Total Makeover

We tore out the old pegboards, redid the floors, cleaned it up, and restocked it wall to wall. Everything now looks fresh, rustic, and organized—ready for travelers, river goers, and longtime jerky lovers to enjoy again.

? Best Route 66 Stop—Hands Down

On top of everything else, we’ve got one of the coolest murals along Route 66. It’s big, bold, and Western—and folks driving through Needles, CA can’t help but stop to snap a photo. Whether you're road-tripping across the country or just cruising the desert, this mural makes our shop a must-see destination along the legendary Mother Road.

So whether you come for the photo, the jerky, or the good vibes—you’ll leave with something to talk about.

? What’s Inside Now?

• Classic, handcrafted beef jerky (sweet, spicy, dry—it’s all here)

• Local honey, pickled garlic, cowboy snacks

• Ice-cold drinks and gifts

• And the same legacy that made Gus’ shop a desert staple

? Calling All River Rats & Road Trippers

If you’re headed to Lake Havasu, Laughlin, or rolling down Route 66, make a pit stop in Needles. You won’t miss the mural—and once you step inside, you won’t want to leave without a bag (or three) of jerky.

? Come See What We’ve Built

? Just off I-40 in Needles, CA, along historic Route 66
? Open weekends for road trippers and river folks alike
? Jerky, snacks, and one unforgettable Route 66 photo op