Covered Wagon Adventure & BBQ

If you’re looking for something a little different from the usual Palm Springs tour scene, this Covered Wagon Adventure & BBQ might just be your ticket to a more laid-back, authentic side of the desert. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, this experience promises a taste of old-fashioned frontier life — complete with mule-drawn wagons, scenic vistas, and a hearty BBQ under the stars.

What really draws people in are the knowledgeable guides and the stunning desert scenery. Imagine sitting in a real covered wagon pulled by a mule, cruising through the rugged canyons and palm oases of the Sonoran landscape, while a naturalist points out flora, fauna, and desert secrets. Plus, the lively evening at the ranch with live music, yard games, and a campfire topped with marshmallows is an appealing way to wind down after the ride.

One thing to consider is that this is a group experience lasting around three hours, which might feel a bit short if you’re expecting a full-day adventure. The price at $129 per person offers solid value given the included dinner, entertainment, and natural exploration — but it’s worth noting that gratuities are separate. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic drives, and a touch of western nostalgia, making it ideal for couples, friends, or anyone wanting to step back in time without losing comfort.

Key Points

• Authentic Old-West Vibe: Ride a mule-drawn covered wagon through private desert wilderness.
• Expert Guides: Naturalist-led tours provide educational insights about the desert environment.
• Scenic Views & Sunset: Catch a desert sunset with mountain backdrops, perfect for memorable photos.
• Relaxed Evening Activities: Enjoy yard games, live western music, a barn dance, and marshmallows around the campfire.
• Hearty BBQ Dinner: Savor smoked chicken, baked beans, fresh bread, and dessert, with non-alcoholic drinks included.
• Flexible Experience: Optional nature walk, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 46.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and What to Expect First

The tour begins at Washington Street in Thousand Palms, with details to confirm your exact meeting time and location by contacting the operator the day before. The morning or early afternoon preparation time is minimal, and you’ll be greeted by friendly staff who set the scene for a relaxed, fun evening.

The Mule-Drawn Wagon Ride

The heart of this experience is the 30-minute mule-drawn wagon ride across the private 30,000-acre Oasis Wilderness Preserve. Think of it as a step back into the days of the pioneers, with the gentle rhythm of mules pulling the wagon as a naturalist guides you through the stunning landscape.

During this ride, you’ll see rugged canyon views, palm oases, and local flora and fauna. The guides, like George and Paul, are praised for their wealth of knowledge about the desert, adding an educational layer that many reviews find charming and engaging. As one reviewer noted, “George and Paul were a wealth of information regarding the desert and the oasis,” which really enhances the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Guided Nature Walk

An included optional nature walk allows you to stretch your legs and explore further. This small addition lets you get closer to the landscape, learning about the desert’s plants and wildlife. If you’re a nature lover, this is a bonus, but if you prefer just the ride, you can skip it.

Sunset and Desert Views

As the wagon heads back to the ranch, you’ll witness the desert sunset over the San Jacinto Mountains. Many reviewers highlight this moment as a highlight — a perfect time for taking photos and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. The landscape transforms as shadows lengthen, and the open sky turns into a canvas of warm colors.

The Ranch and Evening Entertainment

Back at the ranch, the fun continues with a variety of yard games like horseshoes, roping, and cornhole. There’s a lively barn dance with live country music — “a very good band” and “great music” are common compliments from guests who loved the lively atmosphere.

Dinner & Dessert

The included BBQ dinner hits the right spot after an active evening. You can expect smoked chicken, baked beans, fresh bread, and a dessert that rounds out the meal nicely. Many reviews praise the food for its quality — “the food was excellent” and “the turkey was delicious” are typical sentiments. Beverages include lemonade and iced tea, and you’re welcome to bring your own adult drinks if you wish.

Campfire & Night Sky

The night wraps up with roasting marshmallows over an open campfire, under the starlit desert sky. Several guests mention how magical this part is, with “desert lighting all under the sunset, moon, and stars,” making it a memorable finish to an already charming evening.

What’s the Experience Like? The Good and the Not-So-Good

The Positives

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, describing them as friendly, informative, and engaging. Their insights about the desert environment help you appreciate the landscape beyond its surface beauty. The scenic views — especially at sunset — are widely regarded as stunning, with many guests noting the perfect photo opportunities.

The dinner often gets special mention: “the food was out of this world,” with the BBQ and desserts hitting just the right spot. The live music and barn dance add a lively, fun element that keeps the energy up, making it more than just a sightseeing tour.

Guests also love the relaxed, old-west atmosphere, feeling transported to a simpler time, yet with all the comforts of a well-organized tour. The storytelling, the authentic decor, and the friendly staff all contribute to a warm, welcoming vibe.

Things to Keep in Mind

Some reviews mention the short duration of the wagon ride — about 30 minutes — which might feel quick if you’re expecting a lengthy journey. Also, some guests noted that the wagon ride was a bit short, but they appreciated the time spent at the ranch afterward.

A few reviews highlight the importance of checking directions carefully, as the initial address can be confusing. The tour requires good weather, and in case of heavy winds or bad conditions, it might get canceled (with a full refund offered).

Pricing at $129 per person is reasonable considering the included dinner, entertainment, and scenic experience, but tips for guides and staff are additional, so factor that into your budget.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic drives, and a touch of Western nostalgia. It’s great for couples wanting a romantic sunset ride, families looking for a relaxed evening, or anyone interested in learning a bit about desert ecology from friendly guides. The lively evening with music and games makes it especially appealing for those who want a fun, social night out.

However, if you’re expecting a lengthy, high-intensity activity or have mobility issues, keep the short duration and outdoor setting in mind. The tour isn’t specifically tailored for kids, but children comfortable with outdoor adventures and campfire stories should enjoy it.

Final Thoughts

The Covered Wagon Adventure & BBQ offers a genuine slice of desert life, with the scenic beauty of the Sonoran landscape, guided by hosts who know their stuff. It’s a balanced blend of education, entertainment, and great food — all wrapped up in a cozy, old-west package.

If you’re after an experience that’s relaxed yet memorable, and you enjoy a bit of storytelling and live music, this tour fits the bill. The sunset views, the authentic vibe, and the quality of the food make it a tempting choice for anyone wanting to slow down and savor the desert’s quieter, more natural side.

While the ride itself is brief, the overall package creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that many guests say feels like an old-fashioned adventure. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate scenic landscapes, good company, and a bit of western flair — all in the comfort of a well-organized tour.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the tour involves outdoor activities and a short wagon ride. Children comfortable with nature and outdoor settings should enjoy the experience, especially with the campfire and yard games.

What should I bring with me?
Most of what you need is provided, but bringing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for the daytime ride can be helpful. If you plan to drink adult beverages, you can bring those along as they are welcome.

How long is the wagon ride?
The wagon ride lasts about 30 minutes, which many reviews consider a good length for the experience, though some find it a bit short.

Is the experience weather-dependent?
Yes, good weather is essential. If the weather is poor or windy, the tour might be canceled, with a full refund or rescheduling offered.

How much does it cost?
The tour is priced at $129 per person. This includes the wagon ride, dinner, live music, and other activities. Gratuities are separate and not included in the price.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, the tour is booked about 29 days ahead, so it’s best to reserve early to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

In all, this tour offers a warm, engaging way to experience a slice of desert history and nature, with plenty of fun and good food along the way. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to unwind in a scenic setting, the Covered Wagon Adventure & BBQ can be a memorable part of your Palm Springs trip.