The next time you go camping, try it old-school style. Really, really old-school. Thanks to Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania, campers can now experience overnight adventures in a covered wagon. Two new covered wagon camping units will be available to rent at Camp Furnace Hills in Lancaster County beginning in March.
Bringing the wagons to camp will offer a one-of-a-kind experience, said B.J. Folk, director of camp property for Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania.
“The wagons give our troops an exciting new way to sleep at camp while still having that rustic camping charm feeling,” he said. Although the units are modeled after wagons popularized in the 18th century, each wagon features modern amenities and creature comforts. The wagons include three bunk beds, a wagon-wheel table with chairs, electricity, heating, and air conditioning.
The decision to place the wagons at Camp Furnace Hills was an easy one, Folk said. “Upon looking at our camps already, Camp Archbald has the Mariners boathouse, Camp Small Valley has the yurts, Camp Happy Valley has Skyloft, and we were really looking for something different at Camp Furnace Hills,” he explained. “We really wanted to provide a rustic feel and unique experience that could stand out and be different than other camps.”
Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania worked with Idaho-based Conestoga Wagon Company to acquire the units. The business manufactures wagons for campgrounds, state parks, and ranches across the country. Since 2015, they have built more than 500 wagons for locations in 36 states.
Folk emphasized that it has been a long road to bring the wagons to Pennsylvania, but it’s worth the wait.
“The project started a couple years ago but really picked up steam in the last few months,” he said, adding that funding for the project came from a variety of sources, including grants. “Delivery for the wagons is scheduled for late January. With weather and the needed preparation, our goal is to have them in use by March.”
Folk encourages troops to experience the covered wagons firsthand.
“Not only could you be one of the first ones to try the wagons, but this experience is unlike any at our properties,” he said.
He’s expecting the wagons to be a popular draw for campers.
“Our goal with additional funding is to add two more wagons and additional amenities in the surrounding area,” he said.
To learn more about Camp Furnace Hills, click here. Wagons will be available to rent beginning in January 2025.