Camping Las Vegas 40 Min Drive, Kayak to 3-9 Hour Hot Spring Soak

Thinking about swapping the usual tourist spots for something a bit more rugged and immersive? This Camping Las Vegas trip offers an exciting mix of outdoor adventure, natural beauty, and a good dose of relaxation. It’s a two-day experience that takes you from the iconic Hoover Dam to the breathtaking slot canyons and soothing hot springs of Arizona. If you’re craving something more than just a quick visit—something that combines activity, scenery, and a touch of comfort—this tour might be just what you need.

What really catches our eye about this experience are its flexible pricing for groups and the opportunity to see multiple slot canyons in one trip—all from a unique shortcut via the Colorado River. Plus, the chance to soak in natural hot springs for hours makes it stand out from your typical canyon day trip. On the flip side, it’s a pretty full itinerary, so it’s not for those looking for a completely relaxed or unstructured getaway. This trip suits adventurous souls who love outdoor activities, stunning vistas, and don’t mind a bit of physical activity — especially hiking and paddling.

Key Points

• Flexible group pricing makes this trip more affordable the larger your group.
• You’ll visit multiple slot canyons and hot springs in a relatively short time, maximizing your experience.
• The kayaking on the Colorado River offers a scenic and active way to travel.
• It’s a 2-day adventure packed with hiking, kayaking, and soaking, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
• The tour is all-private for your group, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Includes meals, kayaks, life jackets, and some hot springs access, providing good value for the price.

What the Tour Offers

This Arizona-based adventure is designed to give you a taste of some of the most striking natural features in the southwest, all while adding the thrill of camping and water sports. The tour starts just 40 minutes from Las Vegas, making it accessible without a long drive. It’s a good choice if you want to blend desert scenery with river adventures and hot springs, all bundled into a manageable two-day itinerary.

The Itinerary: An In-Depth Look

Day 1: From Hoover Dam to Hot Springs

Your first day kicks off at the Hoover Dam, where you’ll get a rare chance to visit the base of this monumental structure — not just the visitor center or overlook, but the actual restricted area accessed with special passes. The experience of standing so close to such a feat of engineering is exciting and something many travelers don’t get to see.

Next, a hike up to Arizona Hot Springs is on the agenda. You’ll trek through a canyon, climbing a ladder and crossing waterfalls to reach these famous natural baths. The hot springs are renowned for their medicinal benefits, and the experience of soaking in warm mineral waters in such a wild setting is genuinely relaxing.

The tour then takes you to Lake Mead National Recreation Area, where you’ll explore Boy Scout Canyon—a highlight for many. This slot canyon, part of the Grand Canyon’s broader landscape, offers towering walls and geothermal waterfalls that drip down hundreds of feet. Visitors have reported spending around 3 hours here, enjoying the scenery and the geology of this stunning formation.

Following that, you’ll hop on your kayak to traverse 11 miles of the Colorado River. The flow of the dam provides an excellent opportunity for a smooth, scenic paddle. We love how this part of the trip balances activity with the chance to take in the views of the surrounding canyon walls.

The afternoon includes a visit inside Sauna Cave, a lava tube filled with naturally heated steam at about 140 degrees. It’s a cool little feature that adds a unique element to your adventure. A short stop at Black Canyon City lets you see Gold Strike Hot Springs, where geothermal waterfalls reach temperatures of up to 120 degrees—ideal for a quick dip or photo.

In the late afternoon, you’ll have more time to hike and photograph Infinity Hot Springs, Paradot Cave, and Paradise Falls—each offering natural beauty and great photo ops. This part of the trip emphasizes exploration and capturing memorable moments.

Day 2: From Emerald Cave to Return

On the second day, you’ll make a stop at Emerald Cove and the famous Emerald Cave, lit up with a luminous green hue thanks to natural faulting—a real visual treat. It’s a short visit but a highlight for many.

You have the option to return to Arizona Hot Springs for a final soak before heading back to Willow Beach. This last dip can be a perfect way to unwind after days of activity.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour are all the essentials for a hassle-free experience: breakfast, lunch, dinner, kayaks, life jackets, paddles, and access to hot springs. You’ll ride in single kayaks or double Old Town Loons, which are great for beginners, plus other paddle options like sit-on-top kayaks and canoes (extra cost).

Not included are gratuities for your guide and a launch permit costing $32 per booking—an important detail to keep in mind before you go. The permit is non-refundable, so plan accordingly.

Practical Considerations

This trip is designed for most travelers, with confirmation received at booking and the activity being private for your party. It’s accessible for service animals, and most people should be able to participate, assuming they’re comfortable with outdoor activity and some physical exertion.

The group discounts and mobile ticket make it flexible and easy for larger parties or those who prefer digital access. The tour lasts about two days, but each day is packed with activities—so pack accordingly with sturdy shoes, sun protection, and a sense of adventure.

What You Should Know

• The cancellation policy is flexible, offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—good if your plans are uncertain.
• The price of $266.40 per person is quite reasonable considering the number of stops, included meals, activities, and the unique access to certain sites.
• The small extra cost for canoe rentals might be worth it if you prefer a different watercraft.

Authentic Traveler Insights

While there are no official reviews yet, the detailed itinerary and features speak to a well-organized trip that emphasizes both adventure and comfort. The inclusion of hot springs, especially, is a major draw—many will appreciate soaking in warm waters after a day of hiking and paddling.

The ability to visit multiple slot canyons and the Colorado River adds a varied experience that many outdoor lovers crave. Plus, the private group setting ensures you won’t get lost in a large crowd, making it feel more exclusive and personalized.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who enjoys active outdoor pursuits, loves scenery-rich environments, and isn’t afraid of some physical activity, this trip checks a lot of boxes. It’s perfect for adventurous couples, groups of friends, or even small families with older kids comfortable with hiking and paddling.

However, if you prefer a very relaxed, low-effort experience or are traveling with very young children, this might feel a bit too packed and physically demanding. The focus on exploration, water activities, and hot springs soaking is ideal for those eager to see a broad swath of Arizona’s natural wonders in a short time.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a blend of adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation, this VIP camping trip in Arizona offers an impressive variety. From the striking slot canyons and the powerful flow of the Colorado River to the soothing hot springs, it covers many of the southwest’s best features in just two days. The inclusion of meals, kayaking equipment, and private group access makes it good value for those wanting a hassle-free experience without sacrificing quality.

While it’s quite active and may require a decent level of fitness and outdoor enthusiasm, for the right traveler, it promises a memorable, diverse adventure that goes beyond typical sightseeing. Whether you’re after stunning photo opportunities, a break in warm natural waters, or just a chance to escape into wilderness for a couple of days, this tour delivers.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour provides kayaks suitable for beginners and includes necessary gear like life jackets. The activities are designed to be accessible, but some physical activity and comfort with outdoors are helpful.

How long is the kayaking portion?
You’ll kayak about 11 miles down the Colorado River, which takes around four hours. It’s a scenic paddle, with the dam’s flow aiding your trip back.

Are hot springs included in the itinerary?
Yes, the hot springs — including Arizona Hot Springs, Gold Strike, and others — are part of the planned stops. You’ll have multiple opportunities to soak and enjoy their medicinal benefits.

What are the lodging arrangements?
The tour is a camping experience, so you’ll be staying outdoors. Details on camping gear aren’t specified, but it’s implied you’ll be camping overnight, adding an authentic adventure vibe.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, giving some flexibility if your schedule shifts.

What’s the price point for this tour?
At $266.40 per person, it’s a fair price considering the included activities, meals, and access to special sites like the Hoover Dam base and hot springs.

Are there any restrictions or considerations?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s good to be prepared for outdoor activity. Service animals are allowed, and the tour is private, so you’ll be with your group only. The permit for launching on the river costs extra and is non-refundable.

If you’re ready for a two-day escape into some of Arizona’s most stunning spots—complete with adventure, relaxation, and a dash of wild wilderness—this trip looks like a solid pick. Just pack your sense of curiosity and a willingness to get a little muddy, wet, and wowed by nature’s artistry.