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

Venturing beyond the bright lights of Las Vegas, this two-day VIP camping trip offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty, thrilling activities, and relaxing hot springs — all within striking distance of the city. Designed by Adventure Child LLC, the experience caters to those eager to explore Arizona’s iconic landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail. What makes this trip stand out is its progressive, dynamic pricing that can become more affordable for larger groups, making it appealing for families or friends traveling together.

We’re particularly fond of the way this tour combines adventure and relaxation — kayaking down the Colorado River one moment and soaking in medicinal hot springs the next. Plus, the exclusive permission to visit the base of the Hoover Dam ensures a rare, awe-inspiring view not available to most visitors. That said, a potential consideration is the intensity of activities—this isn’t a casual half-day trip, and some stops involve hiking, ladders, and water crossings. But if you’re looking for an active, immersive experience that covers a lot of ground, this is a fantastic choice. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, aren’t shy about some physical activity, and love the idea of combining scenic exploration with natural hot springs.

Key Points

• Unique access to Hoover Dam’s base offers a rare perspective
• Combination of kayaking, hiking, and hot springs creates a well-rounded adventure
• Flexible group pricing makes it more affordable for larger parties
• Authentic hot spring experiences, including geothermal waterfalls and medicinal soaks
• All-inclusive with meals, kayaks, and gear, minimizing extra costs
• Suitable for active travelers who appreciate a mix of adventure and relaxation

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This two-day adventure promises a robust itinerary, combining stunning landscapes with physical activity and quiet moments in natural hot springs. It’s a good pick for those who want a taste of multiple Arizona highlights without the hassle of logistics. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect and why it might be perfect (or not) for your travel style.

Day 1: From Hoover Dam to Hot Springs and Slot Canyons

Starting at Hoover Dam is a definite highlight. Unlike many tours that view this marvel from afar, here you get exclusive access to the base of the dam through a restricted road, with passes arranged ahead of time. The tour includes a 20-minute visit with admission, which is enough time to appreciate the scale and engineering marvel of the dam. It’s a rare opportunity for most visitors and provides a strong start to the adventure.

Next, you’ll hike up from the Colorado River to reach the Arizona Hot Springs. The hike involves climbing a large ladder through a waterfall, promising a bit of physical exertion but offering rewarding views and a sense of accomplishment. The hot springs themselves, famous for their medicinal benefits, are a welcome respite after the hike. The tour includes a 30-minute soak here, which is enough to relax but might feel rushed if you’re looking for a long, leisurely bath.

Moving on, the trip continues into Lake Mead National Recreation Area to explore Boy Scout Canyon. This part is particularly exciting because it’s akin to stepping into a miniature Grand Canyon with colorful, towering walls and geothermal waterfalls that can reach up to 120°F. The tour allocates around three hours here, allowing plenty of time for exploration, photos, and even wading into the waterfalls if you’re feeling adventurous.

Then, the kayaking segment begins. Paddling down the Colorado River for about four hours over roughly 11 miles, you get a chance to enjoy the scenic river views while propelled by the dam’s outflow — a unique experience. The kayaks provided include single and double options, with sit-on-tops suitable for beginners, and the trip is designed to be manageable even for first-time paddlers.

The highlight of the kayaking is a visit to the Sauna Cave, a lava tube naturally heated to about 140°F. Entering this deep, steam-filled cavern offers a surreal experience—think of it as nature’s very own steam room. Guests often mention it as a quiet, contemplative moment amid the adventure, with the opportunity to set intentions for the trip.

The day concludes with visits to Black Canyon City, where you can explore the geothermal waterfalls of Gold Strike Canyon and relax in natural springs. The hot springs here, with water reaching 120°F, add another layer of relaxation to your day. Afterward, you’ll hike and photograph Infinity Hot Springs, Paradot Cave, and Paradise Falls, taking advantage of the extra time to capture stunning images of this rugged landscape.

Day 2: From Emerald Cave to Final Soaks

The second day begins with a visit to the famous Emerald Cave. This naturally formed, emerald-green-lit cave is a perfect photo stop—bright and surreal against the surrounding desert hues. Following that, there’s an optional last soak at the Arizona Hot Springs before kayaking back to Willow Beach, offering a final chance for relaxation and reflection.

Throughout the trip, all meals are included — breakfast, lunch, and dinner — along with paddle gear, life jackets, and kayaks. The inclusivity of gear and meals helps keep costs predictable, though you should budget for the $32 launch permit if you’re planning to participate.

What Travelers Will Love

The access to Hoover Dam’s base is a standout feature, rarely available on other tours and providing a real sense of the dam’s imposing presence. The combination of activities—hiking, kayaking, soaking—keeps the experience dynamic, with no dull moments. The hot springs themselves, especially the geothermal waterfalls and the Emerald Cave, offer genuine, memorable experiences that are hard to find elsewhere.

The tour’s flexible pricing for larger groups is a smart way to make this adventure more affordable, which is ideal for families or friends traveling together. Many reviewers appreciate the well-organized logistics and the fact that everything is included, removing some of the guesswork and extra expense.

Potential Drawbacks

While packed with highlights, this tour is physically demanding at times. The hikes involve ladders and water crossings, which could be challenging for those with mobility issues. The itinerary, while flexible, leaves little room for downtime, so expect a fast-paced day with minimal leisure time between stops.

Plus, the weather can impact activities, especially in hot or rainy conditions, which might lead to cancellations or adjustments. It’s important to be prepared for outdoor elements and to check the weather forecast before booking.

The Value of the Experience

Compared to standalone day trips or self-organized visits, this tour offers convenience and access—notably to places like the Hoover Dam and remote slot canyons—that are otherwise difficult to see. The guided aspect ensures you won’t have to worry about navigating routes or permits, and the inclusion of gear and meals adds to its overall value.

Pricing at $266.40 per person might seem high at a glance, but factoring in transport, permits, meals, gear, and exclusive access, it becomes a cost-effective way to see a lot of Arizona’s natural wonders in just two days.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for adventure seekers who enjoy a mix of physical activity and scenic beauty. If you’re comfortable with hiking, water crossings, and a full schedule, you’ll find it rewarding. It’s also perfect for groups or families looking for a shared experience that’s both exciting and relaxing, thanks to the hot springs.

However, those with limited mobility or preferring a more relaxed pace might find the itinerary a bit too packed or physically demanding. It’s also ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a sense of discovery and adventure, rather than just visiting a single landmark.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This trip offers a compelling blend of access, activity, and relaxation — from the impressive Hoover Dam and slot canyons to geothermal waterfalls and medicinal hot springs. The fact that it’s a private tour means a more personalized experience, free from large crowds.

While it does require a fair amount of energy, the payoff is a diverse, memorable journey through some of Arizona’s most captivating landscapes. It’s a solid choice for those who want more than just a sightseeing bus tour and prefer to actively explore their surroundings.

If you’re eager to see the hidden depths of the Grand Canyon’s neighboring canyons, soak in natural hot springs, and enjoy some kayaking, this adventure is worth considering. Just prep for a busy schedule and be ready for some physical exertion — you’ll come away with stories and photos to last a lifetime.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), kayaks (single, double, sit-on-top), life jackets, paddles, and permits are included. The tour also covers admission fees for stops like Hoover Dam and the hot springs.

How long is the kayaking portion?
You’ll kayak approximately 11 miles over about four hours, enjoying scenic views and the dam’s outflow to propel you downstream.

Is this tour suitable for children or beginners?
Yes, with the provided kayaks being suitable for beginners and the tour being organized for most travelers. However, some hiking, ladder climbing, and water crossings may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
No, all necessary gear like kayaks, paddles, and life jackets are provided. You should bring comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities and possibly a towel or swimsuit for the hot springs.

What should I prepare for physically?
Expect hiking, water crossings, and some climbing—be ready for an active two days. Good footwear, sun protection, and hydration are essential.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, and if canceled due to bad weather, you can choose a different date or get a full refund.

Final Word

This adventure delivers a genuinely diverse taste of Arizona’s natural beauty, combining iconic landmarks, thrilling activities, and soothing hot springs. It’s best for travelers who love active outdoor experiences and want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. While physically demanding, the trip offers unmatched access, memorable sights, and a sense of achievement that makes every moment worthwhile. Whether traveling with family or friends, this tour promises a unique, fun-filled escape into the wild heart of Arizona.