Campfire S'mores and Stars Tour in Kanab

This well-loved evening experience promises a casual night under the stars, around a campfire in a beautiful Utah setting. Visitors are driven to a private canyon used frequently as a filming location, where they meet Longhorn cattle, enjoy homemade S’mores, and learn about the stars overhead. With a perfect perfect five-star rating from hundreds of reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this night excursion both charming and authentic.

One simple drawback worth considering is timing—this tour happens in the evening, which means you need to be prepared for the dark and cooler temperatures at night. If you’re not comfortable in the dark or have small children who get jittery after sunset, this might be less ideal.

What we really love are the distinctive personal touches—especially the chance to pet Longhorns and enjoy the homemade marshmallows for S’mores. The guide, Cowboy John, earns consistent praise for his animated storytelling and deep local knowledge. A potential downside, however, is that, on partly cloudy nights, stargazing might not be as spectacular, as some reviews mention the Milky Way was not always visible during their visits.

Highlights of the Campfire S’mores and Stars Tour

Escape the crowds: Enjoy a peaceful evening away from the busy park areas.
Exclusive location: A private canyon with a history as a film set — enjoy the scenery and quiet.
Dark skies: Premium stargazing opportunities in an area ideal for night-sky photography.
Gourmet S’mores: Includes a S’mores bar with homemade marshmallows, adding a special touch.
Longhorn Cattle: Meet and pet these impressive animals, making the experience vivid and memorable.
Bonfire and games: Engage in fun activities before or after the star-gazing, rounding out the night.

An in-depth look at what to expect

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at the Kanab Visitor Center, located at 116 S 100 E. From here, you’ll hop into a vehicle—most passengers mention in reviews that the journey into the private canyon involves a drive through the dark, which enhances the sense of adventure but does demand a level of comfort in night-time conditions. Group sizes are typically around 35 people, so you’ll enjoy a small-group vibe, perfect for a more personal experience.

The Drive into the Canyon

The drive out of town is part of what we love about this tour. Traveling in a military-style truck or other off-road capable vehicle, you’ll pass through a deserted landscape, getting a glimpse of the rugged beauty that makes this region special. During this ride, you’ll have opportunities to see Longhorn cattle up close, snapping memorable photos and even petting the cattle if the timing and mood allow, as one reviewer fondly noted: “The best part of the evening was getting up close and personal with the Longhorn cattle.”

Old Movie Fort and Filming Locations

Once at the private canyon and animal meet-and-greet are part of the experience, where you’re surrounded by scenery that has served as a filming backdrop for over 25 movies, including the “Apple Dumpling Gang” and “Westworld” (Season 2). Cowboy John delights in sharing stories about these movies and stars, which adds a layer of film history to the atmosphere. As one guest put it: “Cowboy John was very knowledgeable and had lots of interesting stories.”

Campfire and S’mores Bar

The crew then gathers around a large campfire, where you can unwind and socialize. The highlight — the homemade marshmallows — truly elevate this treats in addition to a large S’mores bar. From learning how to perfect a S’more to chatting around the humbling flickering fireside, this part of the evening offers warmth and comfort amidst the cool evening air.

Stargazing and Sky Learning

As night falls, the focus shifts to gazing at the night sky, which is surprisingly clear thanks to the area’s dark sky designation. Cowboy John’s expertise shines when it comes to identifying planets, satellites, and occasionally even the International Space Station (ISS). Many reviews mention how engaging and animated he is, making the stargazing not just observational but educational. “He pointed out the planets and satellites, making us look like true sky enthusiasts,” a common compliment.

However, some visitors note that if the weather is partly cloudy, stargazing can be less impressive — but even then, the atmosphere — glowing campfire, Longhorns, and storytelling — makes the trip worthwhile.

Ending the Night Back in Kanab

The tour wraps up after about two hours, returning to the starting point near Kanab’s visitor center. Most people say the rate of $65 per person offers genuine value, especially considering the personalized experience, the unique scenery, and the memorable encounters.

What reviews highlight the most

The majority of visitors praise Cowboy John, the knowledgeable and lively guide. Several reviews emphasize how his stories bring history and film lore to life, making the tour more than just a quick outdoor experience. Family travelers especially enjoy the engaging stories and the chance to pet animals—they say it’s perfect even for children.

Many guests describe the stunning night sky as one of the best parts—from clear views of stars to satellites, even the faint Milky Way when the timing is right. Others highlight the longhorns, campfire, and homemade marshmallows,which help create a warm, inviting environment.

A handful of reviewers did mention some minor downsides, like cloudy skies preventing stellar views, or issues with the consistency of story length if the night is partly overcast.

Who is this tour best for?

This experience works well for families, couples, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone with a curiosity about old Western films or local history. It’s especially suited for anyone looking for a relaxed evening out, away from crowded visitor centers. Those with limited mobility might want to confirm accessibility since the journey involves some travel on dark, uneven terrain. Overall, it’s a no-frills but authentic way to cap off a day in Kanab with a touch of adventure, education, and plenty of charm.

Final thoughts on value and experience

For just $65, this tour offers a strong 2-hour package that combines nature, history, and fun. The craft of making homemade marshmallows and the chance to pet Longhorns are surprises that add a warm, personal dimension. The campfire setting, paired with dark skies, means a refreshing break from crowds and a genuine chance to see stars.

It’s an experience that’s especially rewarding if weather cooperates at night. It’s well-priced for what it delivers—an experience that balances outdoor adventure, storytelling, and cultural tidbits, all within a beautiful private landscape. If you’re a fan of stars, animals, or movies, or simply want a relaxing evening in a historic setting, this tour deserves serious consideration.

FAQs about the Campfire S’mores and Stars Tour

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention children are engaged by the animals and stories, making it a good family activity. Keep in mind it starts at 8:00 pm, so very young children may need to be prepared for late hours.

What’s included in the tour?
You’ll enjoy a campfire, large S’mores bar with homemade marshmallows, and encounters with Longhorns. The guide shares stories about the movies filmed locally and the night sky.

Does the tour involve walking or physical activity?
Most of the experience involves a drive to the canyon, with some light walking around the farm and campfire area. Be prepared for uneven terrain during the sights – it’s mostly a relaxed, sit-around-and-listen kind of event.

Are the dark skies guaranteed?
While the area is well known for dark skies, weather conditions can affect stargazing. Cloudy or overcast nights might limit star visibility, but the ambience, stories, and campfire make it worthwhile regardless.

What should I wear?
Evening temperatures can drop, so warmer clothing, layers, and comfortable shoes are advisable. Bring a flashlight if you want to see the longhorns and surroundings clearly.

Are gratuities included?
No, gratuity is not included. Given the excellent service noted in reviews, tipping your guide Cowboy John (or others) if you’re pleased is suggested, especially since guides are often praised for their storytelling and friendliness.

How far in advance should I book?
Travelers tend to book about 28 days ahead on average, especially during peak seasons, ensuring you secure a spot.

In essence, the Campfire S’mores and Stars Tour in Kanab offers a peaceful, memorable taste of southwestern history, wildlife, and spectacular night skies—all at a fair price for a unique experience. Whether you’re a film buff, a star-gazing enthusiast, or just looking for a relaxing outdoor evening, it’s definitely worth considering into your Utah adventure plan.