If you’re looking for a way to combine outdoor adventure with a taste of desert solitude just a short drive from Las Vegas, this Camping Las Vegas Trip from the Hoover Dam might be just what you need. Offered by Adventure Child, this experience takes you into the stunning Black Canyon, with kayaking, hot springs, and camping all rolled into a 1.5-day package. It’s a solid choice for those craving a less touristy, more rugged escape with plenty of opportunities to explore natural wonders.
What I appreciate about this tour is how it balances guided convenience with genuine adventure. You’ll get knowledgeable guides who know the area well, and the chance to enjoy kayaking on the Colorado River with equipment provided. The chance to soak in hot springs and explore various canyons adds a uniquely relaxing and scenic element. Plus, the fact that you can extend your exploration with optional stops like Boyscout Canyon or Goldstrike Hot Springs makes it flexible and tailored to your interests.
One consideration, however, is that this trip involves a lot of physical activity—kayaking, climbing ropes, and walking through canyons—so it’s best suited for those in reasonable shape and comfortable with outdoor pursuits. Also, the trip’s price of $222 per person is quite fair given the included gear, food, and guided expertise, but you’ll want to keep in mind the optional extras like tents or extra water.
Overall, if you’re an adventure seeker, a lover of natural hot springs, and eager to see a different side of the desert Southwest, this trip offers a compelling blend of excitement, natural beauty, and authentic camping fun.
Key Points
- Guided adventure with knowledgeable guides providing insight into the area’s natural features
- Kayaking on the Colorado River offers scenic views and active fun close to Hoover Dam
- Hot springs visits provide relaxing, geothermal soaking experiences in stunning canyon environments
- Flexible exploration options like Boyscout Canyon, Sauna Cave, and Goldstrike Hot Springs allow personalized adventure
- Camping experience with hand-selected scenic sites and optional tents for added comfort
- All-inclusive food and equipment make it a convenient outdoor escape
An In-Depth Look at the Hoover Dam Camping Trip
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Willow Beach.
Starting Point and Logistics
The adventure begins at the far left parking lot next to the Hoover Dam Lodge, a location familiar to many visitors to the dam. The trip is a private group experience, with the flexibility of booking and paying later, which is a convenience for travelers with uncertain schedules.
The tour duration of 1.5 days is perfect for those seeking an overnight adventure without a full weekend commitment. Typically starting in the morning, you’ll spend your day kayaking, exploring canyons, and setting up camp, with optional yoga sessions available to help you stretch after a day outdoors.
Kayaking on the Colorado River
One of the main highlights is paddling the Colorado River south of the Hoover Dam. This stretch offers a chance to see the dam from a different perspective—up close on the water. The provided paddle craft include single kayaks, tandem kayaks, and canoes, catering to different skill levels and group sizes.
Reviewers have noted the experience as “beautiful,” and the guides’ local knowledge enhances the trip by pointing out geological and historical features along the river. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced kayaker, the calm waters and stunning canyon walls make for memorable paddling.
Camping at Arizona Hot Springs
Camping is at the core of this trip. The guides will choose the best spot suitable for your group, offering an authentic night under the stars. The campsite is conveniently located near natural hot springs—Infinity Hot Springs, Sauna Cave, and Goldstrike Hot Springs—which you’ll have the opportunity to explore further.
You can bring your own tent or opt for the $50 tent add-on. The camp setup promises to be comfortable, given the carefully chosen locations. Plus, food—pre-packaged breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are provided, with options available for vegans and other dietary needs, making the experience more relaxing.
More Great Tours NearbyHot Springs and Canyon Explorations
The tour is notably rich in hot springs visits. You’ll get to soak in geothermal waterfalls, which is a rare treat outside of well-known hot spring resorts. Highlights include the Infinity Hot Springs—a natural geothermal pool with mesmerizing glow—and the Melt Your Shoes Hot Springs. These spots aren’t just about relaxation; they’re also about adventure, with opportunities to climb ropes up geothermal waterfalls and explore hidden caves.
Boyscout Canyon and Goldstrike Hot Springs are among the key stops, each offering unique landscapes, secret pools, and photo-worthy moments. The guides are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making these stops informative and fun.
Unique Features & Experiences
The trip offers more than just paddling and soaking. The “Joy in the Journey” treasure hunt adds an element of fun and discovery, engaging you with clues and small prizes. This makes for a playful aspect, especially suitable for families or groups with young explorers.
The guided tours take you through remarkable geological formations, including golden waterfalls and geothermal streams flowing across canyon walls. The experience of walking, climbing, and floating through these natural features creates a sense of adventure and wonder.
Food and Extras
All meals are pre-packed with bottled water, simplifying logistics. You can bring extra snacks or beverages if desired. The availability of morning and night yoga sessions provides a relaxing addition, helping you unwind amid nature.
Cost and Value
At $222 per person, this trip offers great value considering the included kayak gear, guided expertise, camping setup, and all meals. Private groups ensure a personalized experience, and the flexibility to reserve now and pay later reduces planning stress.
Additional costs like tents ($50) and extra water (~2 liters per person recommended) are modest considerations for maximizing comfort and hydration. It’s a well-priced option for those who want to combine kayaking, hot springs, and camping without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.
Who Is This Best For?
This adventure suits outdoor enthusiasts comfortable with physical activity, adventure lovers, and those eager to explore lesser-known natural spots near Las Vegas. It’s also ideal for travelers looking for guided, all-in-one outdoor experience, with options to customize the exploration. Not recommended for very young children, seniors over 95, or those with mobility limitations, given the physical nature of the activities.
Final Thoughts
This trip offers a compelling way to experience the desert Southwest’s natural beauty, away from crowds and commercialism. You’ll enjoy the thrill of paddling on the Colorado River, the serenity of soaking in geothermal hot springs, and the satisfaction of setting up camp in a scenic location. The knowledgeable guides add value, making sure you see the best spots while staying safe and informed.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a nature lover who appreciates authentic outdoor experiences, this tour provides a good balance of activity, relaxation, and exploration. It’s an opportunity to make memories in stunning canyon landscapes, all within a manageable timeframe and budget.
If you’re prepared for some physical activity and eager to discover the hidden gems of the Black Canyon, this trip is a rewarding choice—truly a different way to see the American Southwest.
FAQ
What does the trip include?
The tour includes guided kayaking, camping, meals (pre-packaged breakfast, lunch, dinner), bottled water, and optional yoga sessions. Tents are available for an additional fee.
Where does the trip start?
The meeting point is the NPS parking lot on the far left side, adjacent to the Hoover Dam Lodge.
Can I extend my exploration time?
Yes, you can add extra hours to explore areas like Boyscout Canyon, Arizona Hot Springs, or Sauna Cave.
Is this trip suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 4 years old or those over 95, mainly due to the physical activities involved.
What gear is provided?
You’ll receive paddle craft—single kayaks, tandem kayaks, and canoes—and safety equipment. Tents are optional and cost $50 each.
Is the trip suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guided kayak experience is suitable for most skill levels, but participants should be comfortable with outdoor physical activity.
How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.
What about dietary restrictions?
Vegan options are available; please inform the provider beforehand if needed.
Is transportation included?
The tour starts at the designated meeting point; transportation from Las Vegas isn’t included, so plan accordingly.
This trip provides a wonderful mix of adventure, relaxation, and discovery—perfect for those who want to see a different side of the Southwest beyond the bright lights of Vegas. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and authentic outdoor experiences, it’s a trip that can leave lasting memories.
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