Have REI’s Campgrounds and Guided Adventures Cracked the Experiential Retail Code?

In the vast expanse of Arizona’s Grand Canyon area, adventure seekers and nature lovers will soon find a new haven courtesy of REI Co-op. The outdoor retailer and travel operator has announced plans to expand its camping opportunities with the recent acquisition of 20 acres of land south of Grand Canyon National Park. This land will soon be transformed into a Signature Camp, joining the ranks of REI’s other camping destinations near Bryce Canyon, Zion, and Great Smoky Mountains national parks.

Located just off Alta Villa Road in Valle, a stone’s throw away from the Grand Canyon National Park entrance, REI’s new Grand Canyon campground is strategically situated for both convenience and immersion in nature. Nestled amidst picturesque surroundings, this campground promises to offer a retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Upon completion, the campground will feature 10 tents on platforms. REI has also planned a range of amenities to enhance the camping experience, including a communal fire pit, picnic areas, and three communal restrooms and showers, providing the convenience of modern facilities amidst the rugged beauty of the outdoors. There will also be a driveway with space for two vehicles and a storage shed for camping essentials.

The target date for opening this outdoor haven is set for spring 2025, with operations planned from April to October each year.

But what sets REI’s Signature Camps apart from traditional camping experiences? According to the retailer, these carefully curated destinations combine the thrill of outdoor exploration with the comfort of modern amenities like flushable toilets and hot showers.

Moreover, REI’s trips offer a range of experiences to suit every adventurer’s preferences. From two-night excursions at Bryce Canyon or Zion to comprehensive seven-night trips encompassing various iconic landmarks, there’s something for everyone. Plus, REI Co-op members enjoy competitive pricing and exclusive perks.

REI has been guiding adventure seekers since 1987, including hiking and camping excursions in national parks. With trips catering to various activity levels and interests, REI Adventures aims to make outdoor exploration accessible and enjoyable.

A Business Insider review of a sunrise hike in Pinnacles National Park, courtesy of REI Adventures, showcased an outdoor adventure with comfortable camping, expert guides, and delicious meals. The trip offered insights into park features, wildlife, and geology, making it an enjoyable experience for both novice and experienced outdoor enthusiasts. REI Adventures provides diverse excursions in the U.S. as well as the Canadian Rockies, with 145 adventure trips to choose from and prices ranging from $1,099 to $8,699.

Over the past few years, there have also been positive reviews on Reddit by those who have been on REI-guided trips, though many noted the high cost.

As for REI’s Grand Canyon adventures, the company already offers 14 different tours and trips at the national park, ranging from “a two-night weekend hike that includes a night at Phantom Ranch ($2,599) to a seven-night trip that starts at Grand Canyon and also includes Lake Powell, Monument Valley and Canyon de Chelly National Monument ($4,299).”