Conestoga Wagons? They’re Made in Bear Lake!

Newcomers to the Bear Lake Valley are often surprised to see a covered wagon or two in the lakeside area. Heads often turn at the sight of a semi-load of the wagons on highways, on their way to destinations across the U.S. Old relics from the past?
Not at all- those handsome vehicles are newly-made, honest-to-goodness Conestoga wagons. Symbolic of the past, these wagons are built to last by Conestoga Wagon Co. in Bloomington, Idaho, using state-of-the-art materials and technology in a modern facility along the shores of Bear Lake.

Not all Old West covered wagons were Conestoga wagons. The Conestoga is a specific design of heavy wagon- a freighter, large enough to transport loads of up to six tons, drawn by teams of horses, mules or oxen. Many covered wagons were ordinary farm wagons fitted with canvas covers. But a Conestoga wagon was regarded as elite- a breed apart from the pack, “the Cadillac” of its time, well-known for its sturdy, yet functional design; made to haul a load- essentially the “semi-truck of the Old West.”

Fittingly, a Conestoga covered wagon has become symbolic of the settling of the West. And now Conestogas are becoming known as unique places to spend a night or more on vacation. The wagons, normally outfitted with a king-size bed, wi-fi, heater, air conditioning and a private bath inside, make your night in a wagon an unforgettable and memorable event for you and your family; with all the comforts of home.

Glamping wagons have been made in Bloomington Idaho since 2015 at Conestoga Wagon Co.’s modern facility, just east of Hwy 89 in Bloomington. Their Glamping Wagons, manufactured by 21st-century craftsmen, are sold to glamping providers across the United States. At last count, over 650 wagons, manufactured in Bloomington, have been shipped to glamping resorts throughout the nation. They’re now featured attractions at many exclusive resorts across the continental U.S.

Conestoga wagons provide guests with a taste of the pioneer spirit, but with the modern amenities today’s traveler expects. The perfect combination of Old West ambiance, comfort and convenience, this very popular lodging option has inspired guests to share their outstanding experiences, reliving the experience again and again.

Conestoga Wagon Co. does not offer hospitality services or lodging for travelers. As manufacturers, the Bloomington facility provides the wagons for Glamping resorts, like Conestoga Ranch in Garden City. For reservations in a Conestoga® Wagon, click on the map link at https://conestogawagonco.com/locations, where you can directly contact a resort.

Sources: Wikipedia, 2023- search word: glamping; conestogawagonco.com, interviews with representatives of Conestoga Wagon Co.