Bachelor parties don’t have to be Las Vegas ragers. If you’re looking for something a little different, check out these destinations that will offer you and your best buds a chance to bond outdoors and experience the kind of adventure you’ll all remember forever. From skydiving and ATVing in Lake Tahoe, to cowboy-worthy horseback riding in Tucson, whitewater rafting and mountain biking in Denver and an epic motorcycle journey from the Sequoias to Yosemite, these are the top seven outdoor bachelor party ideas in the United States—plus, where to camp along the way. Bookmark this adventurous bachelor party guide now, so when the time comes, you’re ready.
1. Lake Tahoe, California
Why it’s cool: Whether you’re looking to golf with the guys on the lakeside Bijou Municipal Course or take the Tamarack Express chairlift up to Skyline Trail for a moderate hike and some stunning views, Lake Tahoe is an ideal outdoor getaway for you and the fellas. If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s skydiving, horseback riding and ATV expeditions that are all accessible from South Lake. For winter visitors (January to March), skiing the slopes is also an option. At night, you can unwind at Unbuckle, a popular night spot just off the mountain with DJs, drinks and go-go dancers, or you can venture to Montbleu Casino for more nightlife action.
Where to stay: If you want to party, check out the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino near Heavenly in South Lake. If you’re a skier, Kirkwood is a good option that’s about 45 minutes out of town. For cheaper options and for a more relaxing vibe, consider renting a cabin or condo nearby on VRBO or AirBnB.
Where to camp: Check out more California camping options.
2. Austin, Texas
Why it’s cool: Rent a canoe or kayak and cruise around Lady Bird Lake, where the lush daytime scenery turns into a haven for the city’s famous bats at night. If you’re not into creepy creatures, the Barton Springs Pool is 68-degrees year-round and is surrounded by well-kept gardens and pecan trees. The 232-acre Hamilton Pool Preserve is another nearby option with plenty of hiking trails and a 45-foot waterfall that makes for a good day trip. For more hiking, cycling and fishing, thirteen miles outside the city you’ll find the 640-acre Mckinney Falls State Park where you can camp with the boys if you don’t mind roughing it.
Where to stay: If you’re looking for something other than chain lodging, Hotel St. Cecilia is a quirky boutique hotel with a laid-back Austin vibe that pays homage to beat poetry and rock & roll. A cheaper option is the Austin Motel, which has been in business since 1938 and is a city landmark on South Congress that’s walking distance to pretty much all the nightlife fun.
3. Denver, Colorado
Why it’s cool: Aside from the legalization of the many mind-altering substances that have tourists flocking to the state of Colorado, Denver has plenty of awesome outdoor activities that are worthy of an unforgettable bachelor party. Whether it’s hitting the rapids downtown in Confluence Park or cycling the 80 miles worth of off-street bike paths, there’s plenty to keep you and your buds busy. Just outside the city, you can head to the beautiful ski resorts in Vail or hike one of the state’s 53 14,000-foot summits. Pike’s Peak is one such climb you won’t forget, and is only about 45 minutes away in Colorado Springs.
Where to stay: The Hyatt Regency in downtown is priced reasonably and the Peaks Lounge on the top floor has good drinks and a great view of the city. For something a little different, try the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, which is a classic for its haunted history.
Where to camp: Check out more Colorado camping options.
4. The Appalachian Trail, New York
Why it’s cool: While you might want to save the whole 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail for a different go round, completing one section is totally doable. The three-day section between Garrison and Arden Point in New York is one way to go, and you’ll get plenty of epic scenery along the way. Bear Mountain Bridge, the Hudson River and Lake Tiorati are a few of the sites you’ll take in during this challenging hike that you won’t soon forget.
For a pretty detailed itinerary, check out this blog from two brothers who completed the trek for their own bachelor party a few years back.
Where to stay: West Mountain Shelter and Fingerboard Shelter in Harriman State Park are two possible options at the end of day one and two. You could also camp on Bear Mountain on day one or near Lake Tiorati on day two, if you’re up for it.
Where to camp: Check out more New York camping options.
5. Sequoia to Yosemite, California
Why it’s cool: This four-day guided motorcycle excursion from the Sequoias to Yosemite offered by the Wilderness Collective is a dream trip for any outdoor enthusiast. For $2,750 per person, this all-inclusive adventure (food, drinks, bikes, camping gear and equipment) will take your group of eight to 10 on some of the most beautiful remote mountain roads in the U.S.. You’ll observe historic sites at the Sequoia groves, stop for scenic views from 8,000+ summits and enjoy a few relaxing stops along the river. And even cooler, a professional cook and cameraman will accompany you along the way to make sure you eat well and to capture a few of your most epic memories.
Where to stay: It’s all planned for you. Once you depart from Los Angeles, you’ll stay at Mountain Camp, Creek Camp and Grove Camp on the way to Yosemite Valley.
Where to camp: Check out more California camping options.
6. Tucson, Arizona
Why it’s cool: Nothing says bachelor party like the Wild West. In between the Rincon Mountains and the Saguaro National Park, head to the Tanque Verde Ranch to channel your inner cowboy while you take on horseback riding, a team cattle penning challenge and a chili cook off. Hiking and singletrack mountain biking are also available on this 600-acre ranch that you can experience solo or as part of a number of guided tours. If you’re into looking at the stars, try SkyCenter’s telescope from the top of Mount Lemmon for some perspective.
For those hotter days during the summer, get off the ranch and head to the indoor Rocks and Ropes for one of the best rock climbing walls you’ll find anywhere. Afterwards, you can cool off at Barrio Brewing across the street for a few cold ones while you unwind.
Where to stay: Try one of the lodging packages on the Tanque Verde Ranch or stay at the Omni Tucson National Resort—the golf courses here are part of the PGA Tour.
7. Moab, Utah
Why it’s cool: There are few places in the U.S. more beautiful than Moab. Arches and Canyonlands National Parks are two must-visit areas that you can tackle by motorcycle or mountain bike. For the latter, try Porcupine Rim or SlickRock bike trail, which are two bucket list rides for anyone who loves biking. Off the trail, kayak the canyons with a guided tour or rent a four-wheel drive vehicle with Adrift Adventures for a good time in the dirt.
Where to stay: Sorrel River Ranch & Spa can be pricey, but offers plenty of activities on site that make it worth the cost. If you’re looking for less of a resort atmosphere, book a tent at Under Canvas Moab and relax beneath the stars.
Where to camp: Check out more Utah camping options.
Are you ready for an outdoor adventure? Start planning your camping trip.