This custom-made mini Sheep Wagon belongs to Swanee Owen of Unadilla, Georgia. Handcrafted by an artisan in Colorado, the wagon is the result of four months of back-and-forth emails to perfect every detail. Unlike traditional sheep wagons, which are typically 6×12 feet with a double bed, Swanee’s version is built on a compact 6×8 trailer and features a cozy single bed—earning it the playful nickname “one-butt camper” from her friends.
Decorated with a rustic Western flair, this little wagon turns heads wherever it goes, especially at Sisters on the Fly charity events, where it’s always a crowd favorite. Though small, it’s packed with thoughtful features designed for comfort. The walls and roof are fully insulated, with an added layer between the interior ceiling and galvanized metal roof. An air conditioning unit keeps it cool in the summer, though heavy rainstorms rattle the roof with a sound reminiscent of gunfire. On the other hand, a gentle rain provides a peaceful rhythm that can lull anyone to sleep.
Swanee’s sheep wagon is surprisingly practical, offering abundant storage under the bed, inside the bench seating, and in roomy drawers at each end of the bed. While authentic sheep wagons often featured canvas tops and wood stoves for cooking and heating, Swanee opted for a small electric heater and portable electric burner, making the wagon cozy and functional even in winter. She recalls camping in Tennessee with temperatures dipping to 21 degrees and staying toasty warm inside. Most meals are cooked outside, staying true to the spirit of outdoor living.
The exterior is built from T1-11 pine paneling with cedar trim, while the interior showcases tongue-and-groove beadboard walls and pine plank flooring. The galvanized corrugated metal ceiling completes the rustic yet durable design.
Lightweight and easy to tow, this mini sheep wagon is perfect for hitting the road, though backing it up takes a bit more patience than a longer trailer. Inspired by the historic sheep-herders who once lived solitary lives in wagons like these, Swanee’s tiny Western retreat offers a charming nod to the past—with all the comforts of today.
