Decent Waterproof Camera for Hikes?

[lhermiston]

Hey gang,

I'm planning for a trip out to Utah that would be entirely National Parks based. I'm hoping to do the Narrows and Subway hikes at Zion NP and, of course, get a lot of photos along the way. Because the water can get up to chest deep (and even knee-high water could pose some challenges), I don't want to bring my DSLR on these hikes.

So...I'm looking for recommendations for a camera I could take on these hikes. My price range is probably $200-300 since I'm not sure how much I'll use the camera after these hikes, though I'm sure I'll end up taking it to the pool with the kids from time to time.

I've looked at GoPros, but those seem better suited for taking video, and I've also looked at a Nikon point and shoot.

Thanks in advance!

 

[DisTXMom]

Could you do a waterproof case on your phone? They also make pouches for phones in case you are taking under water pics. I have a life proof case and would just put my phone in a flip belt for easy access on the hike. I'm sure others can post about some cameras/I just personally wouldn't want to purchase something that was not used often. A waterproof case can be good for water sports, beach, etc.

 

[lhermiston]

Could you do a waterproof case on your phone? They also make pouches for phones in case you are taking under water pics. I have a life proof case and would just put my phone in a flip belt for easy access on the hike. I'm sure others can post about some cameras/I just personally wouldn't want to purchase something that was not used often. A waterproof case can be good for water sports, beach, etc.

I have considered that, yes. My hang up is my phone is a company phone, so I'm a little hesitant to subject it to unnecessary risk. "Sorry boss man, I ruined my phone hiking the base of some canyons!"

 

[tinkerbell1112]

I use an Olympus TG3. Waterproof, Shockproof, Freeze Proof. LOVE it. takes extremely good pictures too - and mine has survived quite a few drops!

 

[mom2rtk]

There are some nice comparisons online. Just google "best waterproof camera" and start reading. I was looking for one that took great underwater photos but also did pretty well outside the water. I ended up (a couple years ago) buying a Panasonic Lumix DSC-TS5 and have been very happy with it. I used it on a float trip but also love using the panoramic feature for something extra my DSLR doesn't do.

 

[Pooh2]

I got an Olympus TG3 for a trip to Hawaii and use it frequently for canoe and beach trips. It is holding up well after 3 years.

 

[manning]

how much do you want to pay?

 

[lhermiston]

Probably no more than $300. Just not sure I'll get much use out of it after the trip.

 

[manning]

This site will give you a pretty good review of cameras

https://www.dpreview.com/reviews/q311waterproofcompactgrouptest/2

 

[BaileyWhite]

I've taken the Olympus Tough TG-870 all over the Carribbean and to several waterparks! I like that it has a flip screen on it so you can take photos of yourself easier!

http://www.getolympus.com/us/en/tg-870.html

 

[lhermiston]

So, I ended up getting the Nikon AW130. Took it to the Dells a few weeks ago and I'm taking it kayaking at the end of this month. So far, so good.

Thanks to everyone for the suggestions!