Jackson: Chuck Wagon Cookout and Live Show

Planning a trip to Jackson Hole and looking for an evening activity that combines scenery, good food, and some fun entertainment? The Chuck Wagon Cookout and Live Show offers just that — a taste of the Old West right in your backyard, seasoned with some modern touches. It’s a popular choice, with an overall solid rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 228 reviews, and it’s easy to see why travelers keep coming back for more.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it captures the essence of Western hospitality — from the scenic wagon ride to the hearty, all-you-can-eat barbecue, topped off with lively music under the stars. And while there’s lots to love, it’s worth considering that this activity does run rain or shine, so bringing weather-appropriate clothing is a must. This tour is a great pick for anyone wanting a relaxed, immersive taste of Jackson Hole’s cowboy charm, especially if they enjoy good food and a bit of storytelling.

Key Points

• Authentic Old West Atmosphere: The combination of a wagon ride, camp dinner, and live music creates an engaging Western vibe.
• Hearty, All-You-Can-Eat Meal: Expect BBQ pork or chicken, baked beans, corn, and cowboy cookies, with drinks included.
• Stunning Scenery & Sunset Views: The wagon journey takes you through Cache Creek Canyon, offering beautiful vistas and a memorable sunset.
• Engaging Live Entertainment: The Bar T 5 Band provides lively tunes, making the evening festive and fun.
• Family-Friendly & Accessible: The tour is wheelchair accessible, and the relaxed pace works well for most visitors.
• Good Value for Money: At $70 per person for a 3-hour experience, many reviews highlight the quality of food and entertainment relative to the cost.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Full Breakdown of What to Expect

Starting Your Western Adventure

Your evening begins at the Bar T-5 Corral, just a short drive southeast of downtown Jackson — a convenient location with free parking. The moment you arrive, you’re greeted with warm hospitality that immediately sets a friendly tone. The staff are clearly experienced and eager to make everyone feel comfortable, which we think is such an important touch for this kind of experience.

The Wagon Ride Through Cache Creek Canyon

Once everyone is assembled, you’ll hop into one of the horse-drawn covered wagons. These aren’t just for show — the team of strong draft horses pulls the wagons smoothly along the trail. Expect the ride to be informative; the guides are knowledgeable and tell stories of the Old West, which adds a layer of authenticity and fun. One reviewer noted, “Tyler was very thorough in his instructions,” and others appreciated the personal touch guides like Kylie and Liam provided.

The scenery is, quite simply, stunning. As you glide through Cache Creek Canyon, you’ll enjoy views of rugged Wyoming landscapes that change with the light — especially as the sun begins to set, casting a golden glow that’s perfect for photos. The ride takes roughly an hour, giving plenty of time to relax and soak in the peaceful surroundings.

The Camp & the Delicious Dutch Oven Dinner

Arriving at camp, the scent of food wafts through the air. This is where the real highlight begins — the Dutch oven buffet dinner. The majority of reviews rave about the plentiful, hearty food. Expect all-you-can-eat BBQ pork or chicken, with sides like baked beans, corn, and fresh dinner rolls. Many mention the roast beef and baked beans as particular standouts.

The food quality is generally very good, especially considering it’s served to a large group. One guest remarked, “The food was really good — better than some restaurants we visited in Jackson,” which is high praise in this area. Drinks like lemonade, water, coffee, and hot chocolate are included, with the option to go back for seconds or thirds.

The camp setting is casual and welcoming, with staff putting final touches on the meal while guests settle in. For those with dietary restrictions, it’s worth noting that the tour offers gluten-free or vegetarian options if arranged beforehand — just reach out to the provider.

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The Entertainment & Live Music

After dinner, the fun continues with a lively Western-themed show. The energy is contagious, and the band, the Bar T 5 Band, keeps the atmosphere upbeat with country and Western tunes. Many reviews describe the entertainment as “hilarious” and “brilliant,” with some guests noting it’s hokey in the best way — fun, interactive, and full of jokes that keep everyone smiling.

One reviewer said, “The show was very entertaining, and the musicians were talented,” which highlights that while some humor may be cheesy, the quality of music is genuine. The show lasts around 30 to 45 minutes, providing a lively finish before the ride back.

The Return Ride & Final Views

As the evening winds down, you’ll hop back onto the wagons for the return trip, riding through the canyon again under a starry Wyoming sky. The clip-clop of the horses’ hooves creates a peaceful soundtrack to the closing moments of your night. It’s a calming and memorable way to end the experience.

Practicalities & Tips for Visitors

Duration & Pricing

This tour runs for about 3 hours, which is just enough time to enjoy a scenic ride, a filling meal, and some good entertainment without feeling rushed. At $70 per person, many find the experience to be well worth the cost, especially considering the quality of the food and the engaging guides.

Accessibility & Weather Considerations

The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a big plus if mobility is a concern. The wagons are covered, offering some protection from the elements, but since it runs rain or shine, dressing weather-appropriate is advised — layers and waterproof gear might come in handy.

What to Bring

Bring comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, especially if the forecast calls for rain or cooler temps. Sunscreen and hats are good ideas for the daytime, and sturdy shoes are recommended for the wagon ride.

What’s Not Included

The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan to drive to the meeting point. Alcoholic drinks aren’t available on site, as this is a dry camp, so BYOB isn’t an option.

The Real Traveler Experience

From the reviews, it’s clear that guides and staff make a big difference — they’re praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and personable. Many reviewers share how they felt welcomed and like part of a Western family, which adds warmth to an already charming experience.

Food is consistently highlighted as a highlight — the variety, abundance, and quality are much appreciated, especially considering the large groups served efficiently. The entertainment, while sometimes playful or cheesy, hits just the right note for many, making it a lively, memorable night.

The scenery is another star. The ride through Cache Creek Canyon offers a peaceful yet stunning backdrop, especially at sunset. Many travelers mention that the viewing experience alone is worth the price of admission.

This experience balances fun, scenery, and good old-fashioned hospitality. It’s especially suited for those who want a relaxed, engaging evening that captures the spirit of the American West.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who enjoys outdoor scenery combined with hearty food and lively music, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s a great way to get a taste of Jackson Hole’s cowboy culture without the physical exertion of a rigorous activity — making it suitable for most adults and older kids comfortable in a group setting.

Keep in mind, if you’re sensitive to weather or have particular dietary needs, considering those factors ahead of time will ensure a smooth experience. It’s an activity that suits couples, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a taste of authentic Western hospitality in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.

FAQ: Practical Questions About the Chuck Wagon Cookout and Show

Is there hotel pickup and drop-off?
No, this tour does not include hotel transportation. You’ll need to drive to the meeting point at the Bar T-5 Corral.

What’s the price per person?
It’s $70 per person, which many reviews say is a fair price for the amount of food, the scenic wagon ride, and entertainment.

How long does the experience last?
Expect about 3 hours from start to finish, covering the wagon ride, dinner, and show.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it doable for most guests with mobility needs.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, as the tour runs rain or shine. Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes for the ride.

Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options?
Yes, if you contact the provider beforehand, they can accommodate dietary restrictions such as gluten-free or vegetarian — just ask ahead.

Is alcohol available?
No, this is a dry camp, so alcoholic drinks aren’t served on site.

What if it rains?
The wagons and pavilion are covered, so the experience continues rain or shine. Dress accordingly for weather.

How many people typically attend?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, reviews suggest it’s a well-organized event handling around 120 guests efficiently, keeping the atmosphere lively but comfortable.

Final Thoughts

The Jackson: Chuck Wagon Cookout and Live Show offers a genuine slice of Western life, blending scenic outdoor fun, a hearty meal, and lively entertainment into a three-hour package. It’s an affordable way to enjoy Jackson Hole’s cowboy spirit without overwhelming your schedule or budget. Whether you’re a first-timer or someone who’s visited the American West before, this experience provides a memorable, authentic taste of the region’s charm.

If you love good stories, great food, and beautiful surroundings, and if you’re okay with some playful, cheesy entertainment, you’re likely to find this adventure as enjoyable as many travelers have reported. Just remember to dress appropriately and arrive ready for a fun night under the Wyoming stars.

You can check availability for your dates here: