To know that the lever at the quick connect is open, it should be in line or parallel with the hose. If it is sticking out, 90 degrees from the line of the hose, then it is in the "closed" position.
In order to unsafely check for gas at the quick connect, I would get another LP quick connect fixture (I see them all of the time at my propane dealer) and connect it then turn the valve lever to open. You should hear and smell the LP. The better way would be to get the LP detector that exeter_acres linked to and barely crack the valve in this situation, to minimize the escape of LP.
If you get nothing out of the end of the quick connector end, then it or something prior to it is blocked or pinched.
Make sure that the quick connect connectors are FIRMLY seated and that the spring-loaded collar goes back into the fully locked position. If not, pressure on the internal spring safety valve of the connector might not be enough to open the safety valve and allow LP to flow.
The connector on the actual stove itself, is this the same used on the inside where it works, or are you having to add a hose to the outside port that you do NOT use on the inside?
If you have to use a hose on the outside but don't necessarily need it on the inside, take that hose and use it inside to further narrow down the culprit.
