From Las Vegas: 7-day Mighty 5 & Grand Canyon Camping Trip

Traveling through the American Southwest offers some of the most stunning landscapes in the country, and this 7-day camping tour from Las Vegas promises an in-depth experience of Utah’s “Mighty 5” national parks plus the Grand Canyon. Designed for those who love natural beauty but also want the benefits of guided tours and comfortable amenities, this trip balances adventure with ease. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, you’ll find plenty to love—like the chance to hike iconic landmarks or sit under star-studded skies in a quiet desert camp.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of expert guided hikes, a Navajo-guided jeep tour of Monument Valley, and the opportunity to explore some of the most photogenic spots in the American West. Plus, it offers a small-group setting limited to 14 people, which means you’re unlikely to get lost in a crowd—and more likely to get personalized attention. That said, with a price of around $1,895 per person, it’s a significant investment, but one that many reviewers say offers good value considering the inclusions.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour is all about camping, which naturally means you’ll be outdoors for most of the trip, and some logistical details require preparation—like renting a sleeping bag or managing optional activities that come at extra costs. This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor days, are comfortable with camping, and want a deep dive into some of the West’s most famous landscapes. If you’re after luxury hotels or a leisurely pace, this might not be your ideal fit.

Key Points

• Stunning landscapes: You’ll visit Zion, Bryce, Arches, Canyonlands, and the Grand Canyon—each offering unique scenery.
• Authentic experiences: Guided hikes and Navajo jeep tours bring deeper understanding and connection to the places you visit.
• Small group size: Limited to 14 guests, ensuring intimacy and personalized guidance.
• Value for money: Includes all park entrance fees, camp equipment, and transportation—making it a good deal for an in-depth adventure.
• Optional add-ons: Helicopter rides, canyoneering, and other activities can enhance your trip but come at extra costs.
• Practical details: Meeting point at the Palms Casino in Vegas, and a focus on outdoor gear and preparedness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Utah’s National Parks

Zion National Park kicks off the week with its towering sandstone cliffs and narrow slot canyons. We loved the way the tour includes hikes like the River Walk through The Narrows—though this is a water-based trek, it’s accessible for most and offers a true sense of adventure. The Emerald Pools are a more relaxed option, with waterfalls and lush surroundings providing a nice contrast to the desert landscape. The guide’s commentary makes these vistas come alive, sharing stories about the geology and history of the area.

Next, Bryce Canyon offers a completely different scene. The famous hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock—are best appreciated at sunrise or sunset, but the tour includes a daytime hike that allows you to walk amongst these natural sculptures. Being at 8,000 feet, Bryce feels like an alpine refuge amid otherworldly rock formations. You’ll love the chance to descend into the hoodoos for an up-close view, though be prepared for some steep, but manageable, climbs.

Arches National Park is home to over 2,000 natural stone arches—Delicate Arch being the most famous. The hike to this iconic formation is moderately challenging but well worth the effort for the panoramic views. The scenery here is a blend of red rock, desert flora, and sky, making it a photographer’s paradise. Canyonlands follows, where the meeting of the Green and Colorado Rivers creates jaw-dropping vistas. Some travelers have mentioned optional activities like sunset Hummer tours or canyoneering—perfect for those craving a more adrenaline-fueled experience.

Monument Valley and the Navajo Experience

No trip to the Southwest is complete without a visit to Monument Valley. Here, the iconic red buttes and mesas have been featured in countless Western films. The Navajo-guided jeep tour is a highlight, offering insights into Navajo culture and the geological features you see. We appreciated how the tour is about more than just scenery; it’s about understanding a living culture. After the tour, you can camp along the rim, where clear night skies make for unforgettable star gazing.

Many reviews point out that the jeep tour is a substantial value at $75, giving you access to parts of the valley that are otherwise off-limits. Some optional extras, like traditional Navajo tacos, add flavor both literally and culturally. Plus, camping here provides a surprisingly peaceful place to sleep under the stars after a day of sightseeing.

Grand Canyon and Nearby Highlights

Crossing into Arizona, the tour includes visits to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. Antelope Canyon’s narrow, winding passages and light beams are a photographer’s dream, and while there is an optional tour costing around $90-$100, the canyon’s natural beauty is striking even without a guided walk. Horseshoe Bend offers a dramatic view of the Colorado River looping through the rock, easily accessible with a short walk from the parking lot.

For the Grand Canyon itself, travelers can choose their preferred experience. Many reviewers tout the breathtaking vistas from the rim, with options like watching a sunset or sunrise that can be genuinely moving. For a more immersive experience, some opt for a helicopter ride—though at a higher cost ($280-$400), it’s a splurge for those seeking a bird’s-eye view of the canyon’s vastness. Others enjoy hiking into the canyon or relaxing at a rim café, soaking in the scenery at their own pace.

Practical Details and Logistics

Transportation is in a private, spacious 14-passenger vehicle, which offers comfort and a sense of camaraderie. The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd and allows for more personalized attention from your guide. The tour’s logistics are well thought out: all park entrance fees are included, as is the camping equipment if you choose that option (or you can rent it for an additional $40).

Meal arrangements involve a $125 local food kitty, covering six breakfasts, three picnic lunches, and four dinners. This setup means you won’t need to worry about meal planning, though you might find some days longer than others, so bringing snacks is recommended. The tour’s meeting point is conveniently located at the Palms Casino, within walking distance from the main entrance.

The itinerary balances active days with some downtime. Hikes range from easy strolls to more strenuous descents, and the optional activities allow for customization depending on your energy level or particular interests.

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What We Love About This Tour

We particularly appreciated the combination of guided hikes and cultural tours—it’s a great way to learn about the landscape and its history without feeling rushed. The small-group format fosters a more intimate experience, and the inclusion of all park fees and camping gear simplifies planning. Plus, the Navajo-guided jeep tour adds a cultural dimension you won’t find on every trip, making the experience richer.

Reviewers mention that the stunning views and good value for money are among the top reasons to consider this tour. One noted, “The scenery was breathtaking, and I felt like I truly got to see the best of Utah’s parks.” Another appreciated the ease of having everything arranged, from transportation to park entry.

Considerations and Who It’s Best For

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and don’t mind camping in a tent. It suits those looking for an immersive, authentic experience of the Southwest’s natural beauty, combined with expert guidance. If you prefer luxury accommodations or a completely relaxed pace, this might not be your best choice.

Some travelers have noted that because the tour includes optional activities at extra cost, budgeting for those is wise if you want to maximize your experience. Also, since most of the days involve significant outdoor activity, good physical fitness and proper gear are essential.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day camping trip from Las Vegas offers an excellent blend of natural beauty, cultural insight, and adventure. The inclusion of guided hikes, Navajo jeep tours, and visits to some of the most iconic parks make it a compelling choice for those wanting a deep dive into Utah’s landscapes.

At a price of just under $2,000, with most essentials included, it represents a solid value for travelers eager to explore the core of the American West without the hassle of planning every detail. Whether you’re snapping photos of Bryce’s hoodoos, hiking into Zion’s slot canyons, or gazing at the stars in Monument Valley, this tour promises memorable moments in some of the most beautiful places on Earth.

FAQ

What’s included in the tour?
The tour covers all park entrance fees, national park hikes, transportation in a private vehicle, camping equipment (or rental), and a Navajo-guided jeep tour of Monument Valley. It also includes a free downloadable commentary app in multiple languages.

Do I need to bring my own camping gear?
You can rent camping equipment for $40 if you don’t bring your own. A sleeping bag is not included, so it’s best to prepare accordingly. The tour provides all other necessary gear.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included but there is a $125 local food kitty that covers six breakfasts, three picnic lunches, and four dinners. You might want to bring snacks for busy days.

Can I do optional activities?
Yes, optional activities like helicopter rides, Antelope Canyon tours, canyoneering, and Hummer tours are available at extra costs, ranging from about $90 to $400.

What is the group size?
The group is limited to 14 guests, which allows for a more personal experience and better interaction with your guide.

Where does the tour start?
Meet at the Palms Casino & Hotel main front entrance, about a four-minute walk from the main entrance. It’s best to arrive early to avoid missing the pickup.

In all, this tour is a well-rounded, authentic way to see Utah’s highlights and the Grand Canyon while enjoying the adventure of camping. It’s a memorable way to connect with the land, culture, and history of this extraordinary part of the United States.

You can check availability for your dates here: