Camping near Page, Arizona occupies a unique geographic position where the Colorado Plateau transitions to desert landscapes at elevations ranging from 3,700 to 4,200 feet. Summer temperatures regularly reach 100°F while winter nights can drop below freezing, creating distinct seasonal camping considerations. The area's sandstone geology creates both challenges and opportunities for campers seeking pet-friendly accommodations in this remote corner of northern Arizona.
What to do
Explore historic sites: Lee's Ferry serves as more than just a campground with its significant pioneer history. "Nearby historical riverfront hike at the boat launch" provides insight into the area's past as a crucial Colorado River crossing point, according to Rene W. from Lees Ferry Campground.
Hike slot canyons: Cathedral Wash trail near Lee's Ferry delivers exceptional geological exploration. One visitor reports, "The walk down the wash is magical because as you descend you are going through the layers of sediment that you can see in the Vermillion Cliffs," noting it has "3 points where one needs to climb down (then back up) a 30 ft drop in the wash."
Wildlife viewing: Rare California Condors frequent the Vermillion Cliffs area. "Shortly after setting up camp we were also greeted by a curious California Condor riding the thermals along the canyon edges," reports a camper at Soap Creek Dispersed Camping. These critically endangered birds were "all but extinct in the late 80s when the last twenty some in the wild were captured, bred, and released."
Stargazing: Dark skies dominate the region away from Page. Brad B. reports from Soap Creek, "Stargazers will not be disappointed. We woke up at 3:30 am. to see the Milky Way from the horizon to the opposite horizon."
What campers like
Beach camping: Direct lake access ranks high among camper preferences. "You pick and choose your spot anywhere you want on the beach!" says Brandon F. about Lone Rock Beach Primitive Camping Area. Another camper appreciates the "Perfect mixture of dispersed with amenities" describing how "There is an upper shelf of campsites about 100 yards from the water at the edge of a gentle slope."
Affordability: Free camping options provide budget alternatives. "Ferry Swale Road - BLM Dispersed Campsite offers big open land with a choice of roads to find your spot," according to Julie M., who notes their "Class C had no problem" with the bumpy access road despite some minimal highway noise.
Convenient amenities: Even at primitive sites, certain facilities make extended stays more comfortable. Josh F. appreciates that at Lone Rock "there is a dump station with water and sewer on the way in which is a great bonus for this dispersed style of camping. Cost is $14 a night so it's not free BLM, but that keeps the masses away."
Clean facilities: New campgrounds offer modern comforts. One visitor to Roam America Horseshoe Bend describes "Beautiful facilities" with "awesome showers/bathhouse facilities, wifi, a little walk-up cafe that serves sandwiches, etc, and a nice pool!"
What you should know
Sand challenges: Beach camping requires preparation for specific conditions. Mikki S. advises at Lone Rock to "scout out an area and how you want to approach it before barreling in. Might save you a headache or two." Another camper warns, "You can get pretty messy with the sand if it's windy."
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat impacts all camping activities. Weather patterns create wind challenges too, as noted at State Line Spot Dispersed Camping: "Small little site and extremely wide open and quiet; no shade or anything blocking you from the wind."
Terrain navigation: Many sites require careful vehicle assessment. At Soap Creek, a visitor reports, "The road is very rocky coming in. Clearance shouldn't be a problem, but tires might. Turn off from 89A has a steep drop on the eastern side."
Public land regulations: Camping on BLM and National Recreation Area land near Page comes with specific rules. The Corral Dispersed camping reviewer notes, "If you like cows.. well you're in luck. They will come visit. You have to 'cow resistant' your space, they are curious and will poke around if you give them reason."
Tips for camping with families
Choose developed sites for amenities: Families benefit from established facilities. Lori A. found that Roam America Horseshoe Bend offered "lovely new campground with awesome showers/bathhouse facilities" which proved ideal for family needs.
Consider pet-friendly hiking options: When bringing dogs to Page Lake Powell Campground, take advantage of nearby trails. Carl D. notes there are "Lots of fun recreational activities and plenty of options for lodging" with the campground being "nice and close to activities."
Plan for wind protection: Family tents benefit from strategic placement. David H. warns about camping near Page, "The wind here is sort of the only complaint, but it has been completely manageable. I don't doubt it could get bad, but we had one or two bouts of an hour or less over the course of a few days."
Bring entertainment: Limited shade means having alternatives to outdoor play during peak heat. One camper suggests, "For spots further away, you should have a 4WD" to access more remote areas that might offer better environmental conditions for children.
Tips from RVers
Scout dispersed sites first: RVers should evaluate road conditions before committing. Alex and Tanya B. report from Ferry Swale Road, "A bit bumpy on the dirt road to the site, but we managed our 30ft RV ok and enjoyed a quiet night tucked just off the dirt road."
Watch for leveling needs: Many sites require adjustment equipment. At Roam America Horseshoe Bend, Kim G. advises, "Note: many of the sites are sloping so be ready to level a bit."
Use partial hookup strategies: RVers staying at primitive sites develop systems for extended stays. Bethany W. shares her Lone Rock experience: "We didn't camp ON the beach, we didn't want to risk getting our Class C or our Nissan Altima stuck out there since neither of them are off-road capable. There is a gravel area overlooking the beach primitive camping area on the same road."
Plan for power management: Without hookups, temperature control becomes challenging. One RVer at Antelope Point RV Park mentions, "Full Hookups" as essential given the climate, with another noting the "Good facility" with "amenities they offered."
