Covered Wagon Adventure & BBQ

If you’re looking for a way to step back from the modern glitz of Palm Springs and into a simpler, more authentic experience, the Covered Wagon Adventure & BBQ might just be your ideal escape. This tour promises a taste of the old West, combined with stunning desert scenery, a hearty meal, and evening entertainment that feels straight out of a cowboy movie.

What makes this experience really shine are its knowledgeable guides, the breathtaking views of the San Jacinto Mountains, and the delicious BBQ paired with campfire marshmallows. That said, it’s a relatively short tour—just around three hours—so if you’re craving a full-day adventure, you might find this is more of a quick, charming taste of desert life. Perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting a fun, laid-back evening with a touch of history and entertainment.

One consideration is that weather can impact the experience, as the outdoor elements are central to the tour. Still, with a strong safety record and positive reviews, it’s generally a reliable outing. Altogether, this tour suits travelers who appreciate scenic, cultural experiences with good food and lively entertainment, especially those seeking an authentic old West vibe.

• Authentic Old West Atmosphere: Ride a mule-drawn covered wagon through private desert wilderness.
• Expert Guides: Learn about the desert, flora, fauna, and history from engaging naturalist guides.
• Stunning Views: Witness a sunset over the San Jacinto Mountains and explore vast desert landscapes.
• Family-Friendly and Fun: Offers yard games, barn dance, live music, and activities for all ages.
• Excellent Value: Includes a full BBQ dinner, marshmallows around a campfire, and entertainment.
• Weather-Dependent: The outdoor nature means weather can influence the experience; check the forecast.

Arriving and Meeting the Guides

The adventure kicks off at Washington Street, Thousand Palms, where a friendly team greets travelers with a warm welcome. The maximum group size of 46 ensures a lively, yet intimate atmosphere. The guides, including the Wagon Master Driver and a naturalist, are praised for their friendliness and knowledge—George and Paul, in particular, receive rave reviews for their storytelling skills.

The Mule-Drawn Wagon Ride: A Step Back in Time

The highlight is undoubtedly the 30-minute mule-drawn wagon ride through a 30,000-acre Oasis Wilderness Preserve. This private reserve, accessible exclusively to tour guests, offers a glimpse into desert landscapes unchanged by time. As you settle into the wagon, it’s easy to imagine the pioneer days, especially with the gentle rhythm of mules pulling you through rugged canyons, palm oases, and native flora.

Reviewers love how informative and entertaining the guides are—George and Paul share insights about local wildlife, geological features, and the San Andreas Fault, making it more than just a scenic ride. One guest exclaimed, “George and Paul were a wealth of information,” adding that their stories made the ride truly memorable. The naturalist guide keeps everyone engaged with fun facts and stories, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Exploring the Desert on Foot

After the wagon ride, there’s an optional guided nature walk. Reviewers mention that this walk offers a closer look at desert plants and wildlife, adding another layer to understanding this ancient landscape. It’s short but sweet, perfect for those who want to stretch their legs and learn more.

Sunset and Desert Views

As the wagon returns, the desert sunset begins to paint the sky in incredible colors, providing one of the best views in the Coachella Valley. Guests often mention how stunning it is to watch the sun dip behind the San Jacinto Mountains, with many taking photos of the changing light and shadows over the desert.

Classic Western Entertainment

Back at the ranch, the fun continues with yard games like horseshoes, cornhole, and even roping demonstrations. The live western music and barn dance create an energetic, authentic atmosphere. Several reviewers highlight the entertaining and friendly staff, including the musicians, who perform a mix of country and Western tunes that keep everyone tapping their feet.

Hearty BBQ and Sweets

The included BBQ dinner features smoked chicken, baked beans, fresh coleslaw, and bread—served on real plates with utensils, not paper. Many guests have raved about the quality, describing it as “delicious” and “filling,” making the short ride worth every bite. Desserts like pies and roasted marshmallows around the campfire round out the meal, offering a nostalgic touch.

Night Under the Stars

As night falls, the desert lighting creates a magical ambiance, with the moon and stars adding to the romance of the setting. Guests roast marshmallows over an open fire, sharing stories under the vast, clear sky. The overall atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it easy to settle into the old-fashioned, cowboy-style vibe.

Family and Group Appeal

This experience is praised repeatedly for being family-friendly—younger guests enjoy the wagon ride, games, and campfire, while adults appreciate the scenery and storytelling. It’s a well-rounded evening for couples looking for romance and adventure, or groups seeking a memorable night out.

At $129 per person, many reviews suggest this tour offers excellent value. It includes the scenic wagon ride, guided explanations, a hearty BBQ meal, and lively entertainment—all within a manageable three-hour window. Considering the private desert access, the quality of the food, and the engaging guides, it’s a good deal for those wanting a meaningful taste of desert life without a full-day commitment.

Most travelers book about a month in advance, indicating how popular this experience is. It’s also flexible in terms of logistics, with simple mobile ticketing and easy check-ins. You’ll want to factor in the weather, as outdoor activities are at the mercy of Mother Nature, but the tour’s high safety standards and positive reviews make cancellations rare.

This adventure is perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends wanting a relaxed yet immersive outdoor experience. It’s ideal for those interested in local history, desert scenery, and Western culture. If you enjoy live music, good food, and beautiful sunset views, this tour ticks all the boxes.

However, if you’re looking for a lengthy, intense outdoor activity or have mobility issues, the short ride and walk might feel limited. Weather-conscious travelers should check forecasts beforehand, as outdoor elements are key to the experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the experience is family-friendly, and kids often enjoy the wagon ride, games, and campfire activities.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts approximately three hours, including the wagon ride, dinner, and entertainment.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own adult beverages to enjoy during the evening.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities and mild desert evenings. A hat and sunscreen are recommended for the daytime.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, outdoor activities mean weather can impact the experience. The tour operator will reschedule or refund if canceled due to poor conditions.

Do I need to book in advance?
Most travelers book about 29 days ahead, as the tour is popular, and availability may be limited during peak season.

The Covered Wagon Adventure & BBQ offers a delightful slice of Western history paired with captivating desert scenery. With expert guides, a scenic mule-drawn ride, a generous BBQ, and starry skies, it’s a well-rounded experience that balances entertainment, education, and relaxation. It’s especially suited for those who want to enjoy a family-friendly outing with authentic touches and memorable views.

While it may not be for someone seeking a lengthy trek or intense outdoor adventure, it excels at providing a cozy, fun evening that transports you to a bygone era. The value is evident in the inclusive nature of the meal, entertainment, and private desert access. For anyone wanting to combine scenic beauty, cultural enrichment, and a bit of old West charm, this tour is a wonderful choice.

In summary, this tour offers a perfect blend of scenic riding, friendly storytelling, delicious food, and lively entertainment—all within a manageable time frame. It’s a charming, authentic experience that will leave you with stories to tell and memories of a desert adventure under the stars.