Who Are We?
The Beginning...
Dan and Craig have been camping, hiking and motorcycling together for over 8 years! While guiding for a charity trip in New York and neither having been there before, a group invite was sent out to the other guides to explore the city that night. No one showed up but Craig and Dan...and the crazy adventures started! Having guided together many times over the last 8 years with REI it only made sense to create our own guided experiences with the ending of REI Adventures in 2025.
Our Philosophy
We believe that hard work makes for a memorable experience and the most amazing views make you dig deep, but the payoff is always 100% worth it. Hard enough hikes to make you know you are alive, but short enough to make sure you still want to be!
A refreshing camp is more than its logos and brands; it's amazing food, quality sleep and great company. Each meal starts with fresh ingredients and chefs who love to cook...Guess what!?! That's us too!
Having slept innumerable nights outside, we pride ourselves on providing a sleep system that lets anyone sleep comfortably in a tent (side sleepers included)! You may even experience better sleep in a tent than you do at home.... We often do!
Our van is comfortable and helps create unforgettable experience and makes long drives feel like a cruise! Spacious van seating and room to stretch let you take in all the amazing views - and no road trip is complete without snacks!
Whether you're planning a multi day camping trip, guided tour, or just a plain ol' great time, we've got you covered. Join us for the adventure of a lifetime!
Owners/operators
Dan Anderson
Quoted as being "One of the coolest people to exist" in his journal it is hard to describe Dan in one box. Growing up in Utah and living the last 25 years in Arizona he has become a true desert rat. Spending his time motor-biking in the desert, romping his Bronco or playing in the big city of Phoenix you are bound to run into him somewhere!
After years working in an office Dan had an epiphany and realized he could no longer work your typical 9-5 any longer. Everything from high-rise windows and 4x4 tours he has seen it all before; finally finding his footing outdoors as a multi-day guide. Since 2014 he has taken groups to the Grand Canyon and beyond and has never looked back.
If you have been out with Dan before you know the trip is going to be full of stories, laughter and some swear words for sure!
*After the editing and redacting of this paragraph this is all that is publishable! *
Craig Jones
Craig’s an Arizona native, YEEEEE-HAAAW! and certified sunshine chaser who finds relief from the stressful city in the great outdoors. Spending his free time exploring the West from the lowland Basin & Range deserts up to the Greater Yellowstone area. The diversity of landscapes, micro-climates and trails captivated his attention for life long exploration. Hiking mountain peaks, decoding geology, cooking, riding bikes of all types and picking the banjo are some of his favorite pursuits.
Craig may wear dorky socks with sandals, but he’s inspired many to see geology in a new light! After taking friends backpacking for years Craig attained his Wilderness First Responder certification to pursue guiding full time in 2018. In recent years his interest in trip development and logistics has grown. Creating Wildin’ Out West with Dan allows for a lifestyle of continued problem solving, growth and outdoor recreation with great souls.
"Live your best life and ride your own ride!" - Craig Jones