Lake Powell shorelines stretch along 1,960 miles within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, creating diverse camping opportunities across Utah and Arizona borders. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing, making spring and fall ideal for tent camping. Yurt accommodations provide protection from extreme desert conditions while offering access to shorelines and hiking trails.
What to do
Boat-in camping: Launch from Bullfrog Marina to find secluded coves away from crowded areas. "We drove a houseboat and moored/anchored in Good Hope Bay, which is a 2-3 hour houseboat ride. There were quite a few beautiful canyons that had rock slides and small beaches that you could anchor a houseboat to," reports Brendan A.
Water activities: Early morning boating provides calmer conditions before houseboats create waves. "I think is is best to get on the water early to beat all the house boats," advises Dan G. The reservoir supports skiing, wakeboarding, and swimming in protected bays.
Hiking petrified forests: Wide Hollow Campground provides access to fossilized wood trails with colorful mineral deposits. "The hiking trail was fun, the rainbow loop is a little tough but well worth it," notes Doris D. Morning hikes are recommended to avoid midday heat.
Navajo cultural experiences: Horse rides with local guides offer cultural context for geological formations. Nearby archaeological sites contain ancestral Puebloan artifacts requiring respectful visitation.
What campers like
Year-round accessibility: Most campgrounds remain open through winter months with reduced services. "We were here a week before opening season (the first week of March). Some people may not like it during this time because it's a ghost town. For us, it was perfect. No crowds... we had the place to ourselves," reports Nicole B.
Clean facilities: Monument Valley KOA maintains high standards for restrooms and shower facilities. "This facility is newly owned and very well updated by way of lavatories, showers and laundry facilities (immaculate). The owners are extremely friendly and connected to the guests," writes Nita D.
Stargazing opportunities: Desert skies provide exceptional night viewing with minimal light pollution. "Camping just in sleeping bags and on pads directly on the rocks was a treat under the cloudless starry skies," describes Isabelle K. Dark sky designations in nearby areas enhance astronomy activities.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer adequate separation between sites. "The sites were very close together, but to make up for it, trails, petrified forest and, showers for free," notes reviewer J at Wide Hollow Campground.
What you should know
Extreme temperatures: Summer heat requires shade structures at exposed sites. "The only problem is in the summer it can be over 100 degrees. This is a great way to see Lake Powell," Brad B. explains about Bullfrog RV & Campground.
Seasonal differences: Off-season camping offers solitude but reduced services. "Limited hours and dining options during off season, no boat rentals available during off season," cautions Nicole B.
Water hazards: Zebra mussels populate shorelines at Lake Powell. "I would recommend wearing some sort of water shoe or sandal, as the Zebra Mussels along the shore can really do some damage on bare feet!" warns Isabelle K.
Yurt camping Glen Canyon options: Antelope Hogan Bed and Breakfast provides authentic yurt experiences with traditional design elements. "The property is exclusive and off the grid. Don't forget to look up at the night sky, beautiful star lite," recommends Richardson E.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Ofland in Escalante offers family-friendly amenities including outdoor movies. "AMAZING year round outdoor heater showers, 'drive in' movies every night. My kids loved it, I loved it," reports Kelly B.
Playground access: Monument Valley KOA features play areas with scenic backdrops. "Playground with a view for the tots. Not a lot of shade but a few trees," notes Kim G.
Reservoir activities: Wide Hollow Campground provides water access for children. "The reservoir was looking low but still beautiful. You can rent kayaks there," mentions Jen B.
Weather preparation: Desert conditions change rapidly, requiring adaptable planning. "With that being said, the weather can change quite rapidly at Powell so proper precautions and gear should be taken in preparation for large storms or cold winds," advises Isabelle K.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose lake-facing sites for better views and cooling breezes. "We originally booked spot 12, which was listed as not suitable for larger rvs. I have a 18' travel trailer and assumed we could fit but I misunderstood the description. It's really only suitable for very small travel trailers (like 8' long) or vans," warns Jen B.
Utilities management: Water hookups can require extra equipment at some campgrounds. "Water taps are not easy to spot and basically require a lengthy hose or to park in a neighbor's spot to avail," explains Mark M.
Facility differences: Campground sections may have varying amenities. "The lake spots are so nice and D in particular had great views of the reservoir and didn't feel as close to neighbors as the other spots," notes Jen B. about Wide Hollow Campground.
