Great question. Yes, I believe you can satisfy your need for trippy experiences by learning lucid dreaming. A good lucid dream is better than any drug induced experience - and I've had my fair share.

The challenge is to ramp up quickly and make consistent progress so you don't ge discouraged and give up. I would suggest a broad range of reading and personal experimentation. Don't get caught up too far in one method someone thinks is great but isn't working for you.