Primitive and dispersed camping options dominate the landscape near Big Water, Utah, with sandy or rocky terrain requiring careful vehicle selection. Summer temperatures in this high desert region routinely reach 90-105°F during daytime hours, dropping 30-40 degrees at night. Water conservation remains essential throughout the area with many sites located 15-45 minutes from the nearest potable water sources.
What to do
Explore riverside trails: Lees Ferry Campground provides access to several hiking paths along the Colorado River. "We saw big horn sheep on the river trail. Close by in the other direction is Cathedral Wash trail. wow, wow, wow. It is challenging in that there are 3 points where one needs to climb down (then back up) a 30 ft drop in the wash," notes a visitor at Lees Ferry.
Fish the Colorado River: Areas near Big Water offer prime fishing opportunities, particularly at the river access points. "Spend your days fishing, boating, or rafting, and spend your nights camping at Lee's Ferry Campground on the banks of the Colorado River," explains a camper who frequently visits the area.
Photograph night skies: The remote desert setting provides exceptional stargazing opportunities. At Soap Creek Dispersed, "Stargazers will not be disappointed. We woke up at 3:30 am to see the Milky Way from the horizon to the opposite horizon," shares one camper about the experience.
What campers like
No reservation requirements: Most dispersed camping areas operate on first-come, first-served basis. At Beehives Campground, "We pulled in late night found a spot and were very comfortable and paid the next morning. Pit toilets were very clean," reports a recent visitor.
Affordability: Free and low-cost options abound. "Only $14 a night w america the beautiful pass," notes a camper at Lone Rock Beach Primitive Camping Area, while others appreciate the cost-to-value ratio compared to developed campgrounds.
Distinct camping zones: Many sites offer different areas based on vehicle capability and camping preferences. At Lone Rock Beach, one camper explains, "There is an upper shelf of campsites about 100 yards from the water at the edge of a gentle slope. There is a whole other camping area below if you want to literally be on the water."
What you should know
High clearance recommended: Most dispersed sites require navigating rough roads. "The road is very rocky coming in. Clearance shouldn't be a problem, but tires might," warns a camper at Soap Creek Dispersed.
Plan for wind: The open desert landscape provides little wind protection. "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," reports a camper at Powell BLM.
Limited facilities: Most sites have minimal or no amenities. "No facilities at all. The town of Page is 3 mins away if you need anything," explains a visitor to Glen Canyon Dam Bridge Outlook.
Wildlife encounters: Cattle grazing occurs throughout the region. A Powell BLM camper 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
Select sites with bathroom access: Children often need regular bathroom access. "The bathrooms are close to the campsites and were clean. Camp store stocked with beer, wine, food, coffee, t-shirts, and gear," reports a visitor to Wahweap Campground.
Consider swimming options: Accessible swimming areas provide relief from heat. "Daytime dips in the lake, nighttime lakeside fires. Perfection," describes a Lone Rock Beach visitor about their family routine.
Watch for hazards: Desert camping presents specific challenges for children. At Soap Creek, one camper warns, "The only negative is dust gets everywhere because of the wind, and there are a lot of low cactus to get you or your dog."
Tips from RVers
Scout before entering: Sand conditions can change rapidly. "Would definitely scout out an area and how you want to approach it before barreling in. Might save you a headache or two," advises an RVer at Lone Rock Beach.
Overnight parking alternatives: For self-contained RVs, several parking areas provide legal overnight options. At Glen Canyon Dam Bridge Outlook, "It's literally a very large turn out off the highway right on the side of the canyon. Lots of room for cars, vans, trucks, SUVs, RVs, even big rigs!"
Dump station locations: Plan waste management in advance. "There is a dump station and potable water. Cost was 14$ and find your spot," notes a camper at Lone Rock Beach, highlighting essential RV facilities.
