Family-Friendly Day Trip to Blue Heart Springs

Apr 8
2 min read

If you’re looking for a fun, easy, and unforgettable family adventure, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Blue Heart Springs. I’ve been out to the springs more times than I can count—growing up here, it was kind of our go-to Saturday plan. Whether we were paddling with cousins, exploring with friends, or just packing a cooler for a casual float, it’s always been one of the best family-friendly day trips around.

Here’s everything you need to know to plan your own perfect outing with the kids (or the whole crew).

🚗 Getting There

You’ll launch from Banbury Adventures, just outside of Hagerman. From there, it’s about a 1.1-mile paddle upstream to Blue Heart Springs. That might sound like a lot, but it’s mellow and totally doable—even for beginners. And don’t worry: we’ve got kayaks, paddleboards, and even guided tours if you want to just cruise and enjoy the ride.

🕒 How Long Does It Take?

Plan on about 2 to 3 hours total, especially if you’ve got kids with you. It’s not a race—you’ll want to stop, snack, explore, and take your time paddling. A guided tour is a great option here too. You’ll learn about the river, see wildlife, and have help getting everyone in and out safely.

🎒 What to Bring for a Family Day on the Water

Here’s a quick checklist to help you prep like a local:

Life jackets (we provide them for all sizes)
Swimsuits or water-ready clothes
Towels and dry clothes for the drive home
Water shoes or sandals with straps
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses
Reusable water bottles and snacks
Waterproof phone case or dry bag (kids love snapping pics)
Optional: floaties, goggles, or small nets for the curious ones

🌿 Why Blue Heart is Perfect for Families

Calm, shallow water: The spring is super clear and slow-moving, great for splashing or just hanging out
Wildlife: Look for fish, herons, ducks, and sometimes bald eagles
Short paddle: Enough to feel like an adventure, but not too long for younger kids
Safe and scenic: The spring is tucked away, so there’s no boat traffic and tons of shade

And honestly, there’s something about seeing your kids’ faces the first time they look down into that crystal water. It’s one of those moments that sticks.

✅ Bonus Tip: Book a Tour!

Want to keep things easy? Book one of our family-friendly guided tours. You’ll get help with gear, guidance on the river, and a local who knows how to keep it fun and safe for everyone.

💡 Pro move: Morning tours tend to be quieter and cooler—perfect for younger kids.

👋 Ready to Go?

Blue Heart Springs is one of those places that brings people together. Whether it’s your first paddle or your tenth, it’s always worth the trip.

🚣‍♂️ Book your family trip now and let’s make some memories on the water.