Registration Open For The 2026 4-H Wagon Train Along Oregon Trail’s Historic Barlow Road (Photo) - 05/26/26
Families invited to experience Oregon Trail history through immersive weeklong outdoor adventure
SALEM, Ore. — Registration is open for the 2026 Oregon 4-H Wagon Train, a one-of-a-kind living history experience that invites participants to travel portions of the historic Oregon Trail by horseback, covered wagon and on foot. The 4-H Wagon Train is an outreach program of Oregon State University’s Extension Service. It has been held every year since 1982 and is the only 4-H Wagon Train club in the country.
“The Wagon Train is more than a camp. It’s a transformative experience that connects people to Oregon’s history, the outdoors and each other,” said Wayne Beckwith, a Wagon Train leader whose ancestors traveled the Oregon Trail. “Many families come back year after year because of the friendships, life lessons and memories created along the trail.”
A Living Oregon Trail Experience
The 2026 Wagon Train will take place July 12–18, 2026, along the historic Barlow Road, the final land route pioneers used to reach the Willamette Valley before arriving in Oregon City. Organizers encourage those interested to register by June 28, 2026. Participants do not need prior wagon train experience to participate. They will spend one week immersed in pioneer-style living. They set up camps each night, care for horses, cook outdoors and learn Oregon history and leadership skills while traveling across Oregon landscapes.
Tune-Up Weekend Offers Preview of Wagon Train Experience
In advance of the July trek, the organization will host its annual Tune-Up Weekend June 6–7, 2026, at the Oregon Outdoor Education Center in West Salem. The event offers newcomers and returning participants an opportunity to meet organizers, experience wagon train activities, learn pioneer skills and prepare for the summer journey.
Below are details about the Tune Up event in June and full Wagon Train experience in July:
Tune-Up Weekend
Dates: June 6–7, 2026
Location: Oregon Outdoor Education Center (formerly the Oregon 4-H Center)
5390 Four H Rd NW, Salem, OR 97304
Cost: $50 per participant. Cost includes all meals. Tune Up cost will be waived if participants sign up for 4-H Wagon Train at the same time.
Registration: Contact Wayne Beckwith at wb.muleskinner@gmail.com or 503-899-0123
2026 Oregon 4-H Wagon Train
Dates: July 12–18, 2026
Route: Historic Barlow Road
Cost: $350 per participant, plus $50 fee per animal. Cost includes all meals.
Financial assistance is available.
Registration: Youth Registration
Questions about attending the Tune Up or full 4-H Wagon Train Experience? Contact Wayne Beckwith at wb.muleskinner@gmail.com or 503-899-0123. More information and registration details are available at: www.4hwagontrain.org.
About the Oregon 4-H Wagon Train
The Oregon 4-H Wagon Train is a nonprofit educational program that provides immersive Oregon Trail experiences for youth, families and volunteers through outdoor living, historical education and leadership development. Founded in 1982, the program is the only 4-H Wagon Train club in the country. It continues to preserve Oregon pioneer history while fostering community, teamwork and lifelong learning.
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