Ozark Trail Wagon

Everything You Need To Know Before Purchasing an Ozark Trail Wagon

An Ozark Trail wagon can be an extremely useful and fun way to haul your gear and belongings while out and about. Ozark Trail offers durable and affordable wagons that are perfect for camping trips, days at the beach, or just adventures around the neighborhood. But with so many wagon options out there, how do you know if an Ozark Trail wagon is right for you? This buying guide covers everything you need to know before purchasing an Ozark Trail wagon.

What are the Key Features of an Ozark Trail Wagon?

Ozark Trail wagons are known for their classic red metal wagon design and excellent durability. Here are some of the key features found in most Ozark Trail wagon models:

• All-steel construction – Most Ozark Trail wagons feature an all-steel body and frame. This makes them very sturdy and able to hold a lot of weight.
• Folding design – Many Ozark Trail wagons can fold up for easy storage and transportation. This makes them great for camping trips and days out.
• Removable sides – Some models have removable sides that convert the wagon into a flatbed for hauling larger items. Very convenient feature.
• Extra-large wheels – The wagons feature oversized wheels that can easily roll over rocks, gravel, and other tough terrain. Great for adventures off the beaten path.
• Multiple color options – While the classic red is available, some models also come in green, blue, black, and orange color options.
• Wooden side panels – Some Ozark Trail wagons have attractive and durable wooden side panels for a vintage look.
• Adjustable handle – Most models have a handle that can shift between three different heights for comfort.
• UV and rust resistant – Materials and finishes are meant to stand up to outdoor elements.

So in summary, key features are the all-steel construction, folding design on some models, large durable wheels, and finishes that resist the outdoor environment.

How Much Weight Can an Ozark Trail Wagon Carry?

One big benefit of the all-steel construction of Ozark Trail wagons is their high weight capacities. Most models can safely haul around 150 pounds in their standard configurations. However, some models can handle even heavier loads:

• The large 10 cubic foot Ozark Trail Wagon is rated to carry up to 250 pounds. Great for big loads.
• The massive Ozark Trail Deluxe Tailgating Wagon has a 300 pound weight capacity. Among the highest for Ozark Trail wagons.
• Wagons with wooden side panels often have a reduced capacity around 100-130 pounds. The wood sides aren’t quite as strong.

So standard capacities are 150 pounds, but larger heavy-duty models can haul up to 300 pounds. Always check the specific weight rating for the model you are looking at.

Where Can I Buy an Ozark Trail Wagon?

The primary place to purchase an Ozark Trail wagon is at Walmart, either in-store or online. Ozark Trail is Walmart’s house brand, so you can generally only find these wagons at Walmart.

In terms of online, Walmart.com has the widest selection and usually the best prices on Ozark Trail wagons. You can have your wagon shipped to home or select in-store pickup.

If you want to see and test out the wagons in person, head to your local Walmart store. However, selection is sometimes limited with seasonal wagons only available certain times of the year.

Outside of Walmart, you may be able to find Ozark Trail wagons on third party sites like Amazon or eBay. However, pricing and availability tends to be inconsistent, so Walmart is still your best bet for buying an Ozark Trail wagon.

Is the Ozark Trail Wagon Easy To Fold?

One of the nice features of some Ozark Trail wagon models is their ability to fold up when not in use. This makes storage and transportation much easier. But how easy are they to actually fold up?

Here are a few key things to know about folding an Ozark Trail wagon:

• Look for the folding release mechanism – There is typically a lever, button, or handle on the wagon to release the folding mechanism.
• Remove any contents first – Be sure to fully empty the wagon before attempting to fold it.
• Expect some initial resistance – It may take some shaking and adjusting to get the folding mechanism to release. Don’t force it.
• Follow the instructions – If your model came with specific instructions for folding, be sure to follow them. Steps may vary between models.
• It’s a two-person job – Having someone lift each end of the wagon makes folding much easier. Doing it alone can be a challenge.
• Practice makes perfect – Like with most things, folding the wagon gets easier the more times you do it and follow the proper technique.

So while not always simple, folding an Ozark Trail wagon can certainly be done with some patience and practice. Taking a friend along to help makes it much easier.

What Materials Are Used in an Ozark Trail Wagon?

Ozark Trail utilizes durable, high-quality materials to build their wagons. Here are some of the main materials used:

• Steel – The wagon tub and main frame are made from thick, powder-coated steel. Provides strength and rust resistance.
• Wood – Some models feature attractive wooden side panels and trim pieces made from wood like pine.
• Plastic – Mold-injected plastic is used for pieces like the handle, wheels, and hub caps. Durable and weather resistant.
• Fabric – 600D polyester fabric with PVC backing is used when the wagons have attached canopies or seats. Waterproof and rugged.
• Aluminum – Extruded aluminum makes up secondary supports and structural framing. Lightweight but very strong.
• Rubber – Oversized rubber tires provide suspension and make rolling smooth.

So in summary, main materials are steel, wood, plastic, fabric, aluminum, and rubber – all chosen for maximum durability. High quality at the Ozark Trail price point.

How Do You Clean an Ozark Trail Wagon?

Like any utility wagon, an Ozark Trail model will get dirty with regular use outdoors. Here is an effective way to clean it:

• Shake out any loose debris – Turn the wagon over to let any loose dirt, sand, grass, etc. fall out of crevices.
• Mix dish soap and warm water – Use a couple tablespoons of dish soap in a bucket of warm water.
• Scrub with a brush – Use a stiff scrub brush to work the soapy water over the entire wagon, wheels, and corners.
• Rinse thoroughly – Dump the soapy water and rinse the whole wagon well with just clean water.
• Dry in sunlight – Allow the wagon to fully air dry in the sun to prevent any water spots.
• Spot treat tough stains – Use a multipurpose cleaner to spot treat any remaining dried mud or difficult grime.
• Apply protectant – Coat plastic and metal surfaces with a protectant like ArmorAll to keep them looking new.

Regular cleaning will keep your Ozark Trail wagon looking like new for many adventures to come! Be sure to inspect for damage during cleaning.

Can an Ozark Trail Wagon be Used on Sand?

With their oversized all-terrain tires and durable construction, Ozark Trail wagons can definitely be used on sand, both on the beach and on desert dunes. However, there are a couple things to keep in mind:

• Air down the tires – Partially deflating the tires will create more surface area and traction in soft sand. Just make sure to re-inflate after.
• Watch the payload weight – Heavier loads can cause you to dig in more. Travel light on very soft sand.
• Periodically rinse the wagon – When back home, rinse the wheels and body to remove sand buildup which can abrade finishes.
• Grease the axles – Applying multi-purpose grease to axles and moving parts will keep sand out.
• Beware saltwater – Rinse thoroughly after ocean use to minimize corrosion from saltwater. Spray with protectant.

So feel free to enjoy your Ozark Trail wagon on the sand. Just take precautions during use and proper care after to keep it rolling smoothly for the long run. It’s built rugged to handle adventures.

What are the Dimensions of an Ozark Trail Wagon?

Ozark Trail wagons come in a variety of sizes, but most models have overall dimensions approximately:

• 36 to 40 inches long – The wagon tub itself, not including the handle.
• 21 to 24 inches wide – Width of the main tub space.
• 12 to 16 inches tall – Height of the steel body sides.
• 26 to 30 inch wheels – Large wheels for handling different terrain.
• Weighs 30 to 50 pounds – Total weight depends on size and materials. Easy for an adult to maneuver.

However, it’s important to verify the exact dimensions of the specific Ozark Trail wagon you are considering. Large load capacity models can be up to 50 inches long. Measure for proper hauling capacity and storage space needed.

Are Ozark Trail Wagons Durable?

In general, Ozark Trail wagons are built to be quite durable for the moderate price point. Here are some of the reasons they tend to last:

• Steel construction – The all-steel body and frame are resistant to cracking and warping.
• Powder coated finish – The paint helps prevent rusting and corrosion.
• Large tires – The big rugged tires allow them to roll over obstacles that could damage lesser wagons.
• Reinforced stress points – Places like the handle mount and wheel axles have been beefed up.
• UV resistant – Materials are made to handle sun exposure and not become brittle.
• Low maintenance – Basic care helps them last for years of use.
• Carry weight rating – Designed not to fail under the maximum tested weight capacity.

For the price, they provide better durability than cheaper toy wagons. Proper care also goes a long way toward a long useful life.

How to Assemble an Ozark Trail Wagon

Putting together your new Ozark Trail wagon is usually a quick and straightforward process. Here are the basic assembly steps:

1. Unpack all parts and hardware and make sure nothing is missing. Most include tools needed.
2. Bolt the axle assembly onto the main wagon tub using the provided hardware.
3. Attach the wheels onto each end of the axle securely.
4. Mount the long handle uprights to brackets on the corners of the wagon.
5. Attach the plastic handle grip to the top of the upright tubes, likely using set screws.
6. Add any accessory pieces like side panels or seats as shown in the instructions.
7. Fully tighten any loose bolts securely. Do not over tighten.
8. Test the action of the handle adjustment and the rolling wheels before loading.

Refer to the full instructions for your specific model for proper assembly. But overall, expect a quick 15-30 minute assembly with basic tools and hardware included.

What is the Warranty on an Ozark Trail Wagon?

Ozark Trail wagons are primarily sold at Walmart, so they come with Walmart’s standard warranty for products. This means:

• 90 day limited warranty – Against defects in workmanship and materials. Does not cover damage from normal wear and tear.
• Return to Walmart – To make a warranty claim, you need to bring the wagon back to Walmart along with your receipt.
• Replacement or repair – If found defective, Walmart will either replace the wagon or repair the specific problem area.
• Proof of purchase – The original purchase receipt is required to verify date for warranty claims.

So while not the longest coverage, Ozark Trail wagons do come with a basic 90 day factory warranty through Walmart to cover any potential manufacturing issues. Contact Walmart for full warranty details.

How Does the Ozark Trail Wagon Compare to Other Brands?

Ozark Trail wagons get you excellent durability and features at very affordable prices. But how do they stack up against other top brands?

• Little Tikes – More plastic parts but better for very young kids. Ozark Trail better for older kids and gear hauling.
• Radio Flyer – Similar designs but Radio Flyer uses more wood and plastic pieces. Ozark Trail all steel for ruggedness.
• Mac Sports – Comparable features and quality. Mac Sports wagons cost slightly more on average.
• Timber Ridge – Timber Ridge focused more on folding wagons. Ozark Trail more well-rounded traditional design.
• WORX – WORX wagons have more accessories like canopies. But Ozark Trail wagons stronger for gear/utility use.

Overall, Ozark Trail holds its own against even the premium brands while being priced low for the quality. Great value buy.

Is the Ozark Trail Wagon Suitable for Kids?

The durable and intuitive design of Ozark Trail wagons make them very suitable for use by kids. Here are some benefits for kids:

• Low carrying height – Low wagon sides make it easy for kids to climb in and out themselves.
• Adjustable handle – Handle can be shifted to be the ideal pulling height for kids of various sizes.
• Lightweight for kids – Weighs 30-40 pounds so even smaller kids can move it around.
• Large tires – Big all-terrain tires easily roll over bumps and tough terrain.
• Folding models – Good for storage in the garage or bringing along in the family vehicle.
• Fun colors – Models like the blue and green wagons appeal more to kids than the classic red.

Just be sure kids are safely seated inside the wagon and being watched by an adult if younger than 5 years old. But overall the design works great for kid adventures and hauling.

What Accessories are Available for the Ozark Trail Wagon?

One advantage of the Ozark Trail wagons is the number of available accessories that work with most models:

• Canopies – Flip up canopies provide shade and light rain protection. Come in variety of colors.
• Seat pads – Cushioned pad attaches over wagon sides using straps to make more comfortable seating.
• Cup holders – Small cup holders can mount over the sides or to the handle for beverage transport.
• Tailgate protectors – Help protect your vehicle when loading the wagon in the back.
• Handle grips – Replace plastic handle grips with more ergonomic foam grips.
• Cargo nets – Nets attach to sides to help secure loose items in the wagon bed.
• Coolers – Special coolers designed to nest perfectly in the wagon tub and keep food/drinks cold.

Check the accessories available for your specific Ozark Trail wagon model number to customize it for how you will use it.

How to Repair an Ozark Trail Wagon

Ozark Trail wagons are built to be durable, but accidents happen. Here are some tips for making common repairs:

• Broken plastic – Use plastic epoxy or super glue to reattach broken pieces like handles or hub caps.
• Flat tire – Tires can often be patched if punctured. Otherwise replace with a tire of the same size.
• Rusted areas – Use a wire brush to remove rust and touch up with matching metal-specific spray paint.
• Loose bolts – Tighten any loose bolts, particularly on the handle assembly. Don’t over tighten.
• Split wood – Wood glue and clamps can repair minor splits in any wooden side panels or trim pieces.
• Bent axle – Carefully use a rubber mallet to try gently straightening a bent axle. Don’t bend it back and forth.
• Major damage – For things like cracked tub or bent frame, replacement may be needed. Compare cost of new wagon.

Simple fixes can keep your Ozark Trail wagon rolling for a long time. Evaluate whether extensive repairs are worth the cost vs a new wagon.

Can an Ozark Trail Wagon Fit in a Car Trunk?

The folding design of some Ozark Trail wagon models makes them able to fit inside many car trunks for easy transportation. However, there are a few factors to consider:

• Measure folded dimensions – The folded wagon has to be narrower and shorter than the trunk opening. Compare sizes.
• Mind the handle – The handle may prevent closing the trunk lid even if the base fits. You may need to detach it.
• Allow room for other items – It has to fit with other stuff you may be putting in the trunk.
• SUVs and vans are easier – The larger cargo areas in SUVs and vans make fitting a folded wagon much easier.
• Fold technique matters – Taking time to tightly fold the wagon makes it most compact for fitting in tight trunk spaces.

With some trial and error, a folded Ozark Trail wagon can work in many car trunks. Just be ready to detach the handle and allow extra space for optimal fitting.

What is the Price Range of Ozark Trail Wagons?

A major appeal of Ozark Trail wagons is that they provide great durability and quality at very affordable prices. Here is what to expect for pricing:

• $50 to $100 – Basic steel wagon models like the 10 cubic foot utility wagon.
• $100 to $150 – Wagons with extra features like folding design, wood panels, convertible beds.
• $150 to $200 – Extra large and heavy duty models that hold more weight.
• $200 to $300 – Special edition models with accessories like canopies included.
• $50 to $100 – Accessories like canopies and tailgate pads when purchased separately.

So expect to pay between $50 and $300 depending on the wagon size, features, and accessories selected. Far less than premium brands while still being highly functional utility wagons.

Are There Any Reviews for the Ozark Trail Wagon?

With the Ozark Trail wagon being a very popular item sold exclusively at Walmart, there are many online reviews that provide great first-hand feedback on the different models.

Some key themes seen in reviews are:

• Sturdy steel construction holds up well to abuse.
• Excellent stability when pulled thanks to wide wheel base.
• Capable of going off-road over bumps and trails.
• Very easy and quick to assemble out of the box.
• Fits a lot of cargo, tents, small coolers, kids, etc.
• Great budget alternative to more expensive wagon brands.
• Most complaints involve plastic pieces breaking over time.
• Paint finish chips and wears down rather quickly based on use.
• Wheels work well but treads wear down after 1-2 years of heavy use.

Overall, the consensus seems to be that Ozark Trail wagons are an excellent value for the price and stand up to lots of outdoor use. Just expect some finish wear with time.

How to Store an Ozark Trail Wagon

When not in use, proper storage is important for keeping your Ozark Trail wagon protected and ready for fun. Here are some tips:

• Clean before storing – Remove any dirt and debris that could cause abrasion or corrosion during storage.
• Fold models – For folding wagons, make sure they are tightly folded and secured in the closed position.
• Cover with tarp – Use a waterproof tarp, secured tightly, to protect from rain, snow, and sun exposure when stored outdoors.
• Hang handle – The handle should be positioned upright so it takes up less space.
• Indoors – Storing inside the garage or shed is best for minimizing weathering to the finish.
• Tires – Fully inflate tires before storing to avoid flat spots over time.
• Lubricate – Wipe a light coat of WD40 over metal parts before storage to limit rust formation.

Properly caring for your wagon during off-seasons will have it looking and performing like new for years.

What are the Best Uses for an Ozark Trail Wagon?

Ozark Trail wagons are very versatile utility carts than can come in handy for all sorts of activities:

• Camping – Haul gear and firewood around the campsite. Fits great in the trunk when folded.
• Beach – Effortlessly pull tons of beach toys, chairs, coolers, and more through sand.
• Sporting Events – Carry tailgating food and supplies from the parking lot to your party spot.
• Farming – Scoot harvested produce, potted plants, and gardening tools around your property.
• Park Outings – Let the kids ride safely on trips to the neighborhood park or playground.
• Events – Use it to vend food, drinks, crafts or hand out giveaways at local events like parades.
• Yard Work – Load up dirt, mulch, landscaping rocks, and yard waste for quick transport.

So anything involving hauling medium-sized loads, an Ozark Trail wagon can make the job infinitely easier!

Getting an Ozark Trail wagon can be a great investment for outdoor fun, camping trips, yard work, and many other activities. This buying guide covers everything you need – from key features to maintenance and storage. Considering the affordable prices and good durability, Ozark Trail wagons deliver fantastic utility and value. Do your research to pick the right size and features for your needs. Then get out and start hauling!