Unearth The Voyage
Have you ever wanted to trade your modern bed for a night under canvas, surrounded by the sounds of nature and the romance of the old frontier? At one remarkable farm just south of Oklahoma City, you can do exactly that without sacrificing comfort or safety.
Families looking for something different from the usual hotel stay are discovering the joy of covered wagon camping, where history meets modern convenience in the most unexpected way. This unique overnight experience combines the adventure of pioneer life with amenities that make everyone comfortable, from grandparents to toddlers.
Welcome to Orr Family Farm
Tucked away at 14400 S Western Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73170, this 108-acre working farm has been welcoming adventurous families for years. The property stretches across rolling Oklahoma landscape, featuring a peaceful lake, seasonal attractions, and those famous covered wagons that dot the grounds like something straight out of a history book.
Most guests arrive expecting a simple pumpkin patch or petting zoo. What they find instead is a full-fledged destination where kids can run wild and parents can actually relax.
The farm sits just three miles from I-35, making it easy to reach from anywhere in the metro area or beyond.
First-time visitors often spend hours exploring before they even think about checking into their wagon. The sheer size of the place surprises people who assume it’s just another roadside attraction.
Between the animals, activities, and that gorgeous lake reflecting the Oklahoma sky, there’s enough here to fill an entire weekend without ever feeling cramped or bored.
The family behind this operation has poured genuine care into every corner. You can tell they wanted to create something special, not just another tourist trap that takes your money and sends you home disappointed.
The Covered Wagon Experience
Sleeping in a covered wagon sounds rustic, but these aren’t the cramped, uncomfortable prairie schooners your ancestors endured. Each wagon sleeps up to eight people and comes equipped with modern touches that make the experience enjoyable rather than punishing.
You’ll find a microwave and minifridge tucked inside, along with a BBQ grill outside for cooking meals under the stars.
The basic wagons require you to bring your own linens and use shared exterior bathrooms. But upgraded units offer private bathrooms with actual showers, plus linens already on the beds when you arrive.
Some even include cozy sitting areas where you can play cards or just watch the sunset through the canvas opening.
Wash basins sit ready for quick cleanups, and the canvas sides provide surprising privacy while still letting in fresh air. The wooden frames creak gently in the breeze, adding to that authentic pioneer atmosphere without the hardship.
Families spread out comfortably, with kids claiming bunks and parents appreciating the space to actually move around.
Modern Amenities Meet Frontier Living
Nobody wants to rough it too much on vacation, which is why the farm balances nostalgia with practicality. Free WiFi reaches most areas, so you can share photos or stream a movie if the kids need downtime.
Air conditioning in certain buildings provides relief during Oklahoma’s sweltering summer months, and the smoke-free policy keeps the air fresh for everyone.
The coin-operated laundry facility comes in handy for families staying multiple nights or dealing with muddy adventures. Free parking eliminates one of those annoying travel expenses, and the indoor pool offers a backup plan when weather doesn’t cooperate.
Some guests discover the hot tub late at night, soaking away the day’s excitement under a blanket of stars.
That fire pit near the wagons becomes the evening’s social hub. Families gather to roast marshmallows, swap stories, and watch sparks drift upward into the darkness.
The farm provides wood, so you don’t need to hunt for kindling or worry about starting the fire yourself.
The casual on-site restaurant saves you from driving into town when hunger strikes. While some guests mention the prices run a bit high, the convenience factor matters when you’re traveling with tired, hungry children who just want food now.
Seasonal Adventures and Activities
The farm transforms with each season, offering different reasons to visit throughout the year. Fall brings the famous pumpkin patch, where families hunt for the perfect jack-o-lantern candidate among rows of orange globes.
The corn maze challenges visitors with a scavenger hunt game that turns a simple walk into an adventure with purpose.
Go-karts zip around a dedicated track when conditions allow, giving older kids and adults a chance to race. The zipline course sends brave souls sailing over parts of the property, offering views you can’t get from ground level.
Paintball sessions let groups work out some competitive energy in a safe, supervised environment.
Pedal boats glide across the lake during warmer months, available for an additional fee but worth every penny on a perfect afternoon. Kids pedal furiously while parents steer, creating memories that stick long after the vacation ends.
The animal areas let little ones feed goats, chickens, and other farm residents who’ve grown accustomed to gentle hands and curious questions.
Train rides circle portions of the property when operational, though several reviews mention it breaks down frequently. The hayrides offer classic farm fun, bouncing along dirt paths while a guide points out landmarks and shares farm history.
The Reality of Crowds and Timing
Peak season brings crowds that can test your patience, especially during October weekends when every family in Oklahoma seems to have the same idea. Lines form at popular attractions, and finding a clean table at lunchtime requires timing and luck.
Some activities operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no staff managing the flow, which means assertive kids sometimes dominate equipment while shy ones wait forever.
Field trip days can overwhelm the property with hundreds of schoolchildren all arriving at once. Certain rides and attractions don’t open until afternoon, frustrating early arrivals who planned their day around specific activities.
The train, big slides, and some other features occasionally close without warning due to maintenance issues or weather concerns.
Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak seasons dramatically improves the experience. You’ll find shorter lines, more attentive staff, and space to actually enjoy each activity without feeling rushed.
Early morning arrivals beat the crowds and claim the best spots for photos before everyone else shows up.
Weather plays a huge role in your visit quality. Rain turns pathways muddy and closes outdoor attractions, leaving indoor options overwhelmed.
Hot days offer little shade for cooling off between activities, so plan accordingly with hats, sunscreen, and realistic expectations about how long young children can handle the heat.
Food, Pricing, and Budget Considerations
The on-site restaurant serves typical farm fare like chicken strips, burgers, hot dogs, and those irresistible apple cider donuts that guests rave about. Everything arrives hot and fresh when the kitchen isn’t overwhelmed, with that homestyle quality you expect from a family operation.
The donuts alone justify a visit, crispy outside and fluffy inside with just the right amount of cinnamon sugar coating.
But here’s where things get complicated. Food prices shock many visitors who’ve already paid admission.
Three chicken strips with fries and a drink runs around $17. A basic hot dog plate costs nearly the same.
Fountain drinks hover around $7 for two mediums with no refills unless you buy the $17 souvenir cup.
Some guests call it a money grab. Others accept it as standard amusement venue pricing.
Either way, you’ll spend significantly on food if you stay all day. Smart families pack coolers and eat in the parking lot between activities, though this feels awkward when you’re supposed to be enjoying a destination experience.
Admission runs about $60 for two adults, with additional charges for certain premium activities. Season passes make sense for locals who visit repeatedly, but out-of-town families need to budget carefully to avoid sticker shock at day’s end.
Weather Preparedness and Safety Concerns
Oklahoma weather can turn dangerous quickly, and staying overnight in a covered wagon during severe storms raises legitimate safety questions. One family reported leaving in the middle of the night when tornado sirens sounded and their wagon shook violently in the wind.
They found no safe shelter, no staff guidance, and no follow-up from management afterward.
The farm sits in Tornado Alley, where spring and early summer bring regular severe weather threats. Canvas walls and wooden frames offer zero protection against high winds or flying debris.
The lack of a clearly communicated emergency plan for overnight guests represents a serious oversight that management needs to address immediately.
Day visitors face different but still significant weather challenges. Summer heat becomes oppressive with limited shade structures for cooling off.
Thunderstorms roll in suddenly, sending everyone scrambling for cover in already-crowded indoor spaces. The outdoor bathroom situation becomes particularly unpleasant during rain when you’re trudging through mud to reach a port-a-john.
Check forecasts carefully before booking overnight stays, especially during spring storm season. Consider whether your family can handle sudden weather changes without panic.
Pack emergency supplies including flashlights, first aid items, and weather radio. Ask management directly about their severe weather protocols before committing to a wagon stay during unpredictable months.
Making the Most of Your Visit
Success at Orr Family Farm requires planning and realistic expectations. Arrive early to beat crowds and claim your spot for popular activities.
Bring your own food and drinks to avoid budget-busting restaurant prices. Pack extra clothes because kids will get dirty, muddy, and possibly soaked depending on what they choose to do.
Comfortable walking shoes matter more than you think. You’ll cover miles exploring the 108 acres, and flip-flops or sandals lead to blisters and complaints.
Sunscreen, hats, and refillable water bottles become essential equipment rather than optional extras. A small backpack lets you carry supplies without juggling armfuls of stuff all day.
Set expectations with children before arriving. Explain that some attractions might be closed and lines might be long.
Focus on the unique experiences rather than checking off every single activity. The covered wagon stay itself provides enough novelty to satisfy most families without cramming in everything else.
Photography opportunities abound, from the pumpkin patch to the animals to that perfect sunset over the lake. Bring a decent camera or ensure your phone has storage space.
These moments capture childhood in ways that regular vacations simply don’t, creating tangible memories you’ll treasure for decades.
Despite occasional frustrations with pricing, crowds, or closed attractions, most families leave happy. The combination of outdoor adventure, historical novelty, and genuine Oklahoma hospitality creates something special worth experiencing at least once.
