Tucked away in the heart of middle Georgia lies a charming pecan orchard with deep roots, both in the soil and in family tradition. Ocmulgee Orchards, founded and lovingly maintained by twin brothers David and Donald Johnson, is more than just a farm, it's a living legacy that stretches across generations.
Before their days in pecan production, the Johnson brothers spent decades working in the farm equipment business. But the pull of their family land was strong. Today, they’ve embraced full-time life on the orchard, cultivating some of the very pecan trees planted by their father in the early 1980s, and even older ones dating back decades before. The land itself has been in agricultural use for over a century, once home to cornfields, cattle, pigs, and more under the stewardship of their grandfather.
What makes Ocmulgee Orchards even more special is its picturesque setting. The farm is nestled beside the Ocmulgee River, a name derived from the Okmulgee tribe, meaning “where water bubbles up.” It’s a fitting metaphor for a place where family values, hard work, and natural beauty come together to create something truly delightful.
While the orchard and the surrounding farm (complete with goats, dogs, and free-ranging poultry) are a sight to behold, the real stars of the show are the Sugar Fried Pecans. A treasured family recipe passed down through generations, these irresistible snacks are made by coating fresh Georgia-grown pecans in sugar, deep-frying them, and finishing them off with a touch of salt. The result? A crunchy, sweet-and-savory indulgence that’s perfect as a snack, a dessert topper, or even sprinkled over salads and sweet potatoes.
Whether you’re a Georgia native or just discovering Southern pecans for the first time, Ocmulgee Orchards Sugar Fried Pecans offer a taste of tradition that’s hard to resist!
Information and inspiration for this post were drawn with appreciation from Ocmulgee Orchards Our Roots.