Best Campgrounds near Lake Powell, UT

The red rock shorelines of Lake Powell make this Utah destination a fascinating mix of desert and water camping. Beehives Campground sits within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and puts campers close to the lake for swimming and fishing. Most people who stay at Wahweap Campground & RV Park appreciate having flush toilets and hot showers after a day on the water. Lake Powell works well as a base camp for day trips to Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon if you don't mind some driving. Many campers come specifically to photograph the contrast between blue water and red sandstone formations throughout the area. Summer temperatures regularly climb above 100°F during the day but can drop significantly at night, so packing layers helps. You'll need to bring plenty of water regardless of when you visit, as the desert environment is extremely dry. Both tent and RV campers find good options around Lake Powell, though reservations are essential during peak summer months.

Best Camping Sites Near Lake Powell, Utah (67)

    1. Lone Rock Beach Primitive Camping Area — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

    115 Reviews
    Big Water, AZ
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 608-6200

    "Fifteen minutes from lake Powell park."

    "Dry camping next to Lake Powell. Boating,fishing and rzr riding."

    2. Wahweap Campground & RV Park — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

    61 Reviews
    Page, AZ
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 896-3829

    "Location: excellent proximity to the Grand Canyon, Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Upper & Lower Slot Canyons. Within approximately 1 hour to each."

    "Wahweap CG was a great roadtrip stop with access to Lake Powell, but in the heat of the sun it was a bummer to not have really any shade at all. "

    3. Page Lake Powell Campground

    51 Reviews
    Page, AZ
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 645-3374

    $28 - $125 / night

    "Minutes from lake Powell and Horseshoe bend."

    "We stayed at the Page Lake Powell campground for the second time in May 2021.  The sites are excellent with decent spacing. "

    4. Beehives Campground — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

    25 Reviews
    Page, AZ
    10 miles
    Website

    "Not ideal for star gazing since you're right next to the Dam, but right across from Lake Powell and only 20 minutes from Horseshoe Bend. Bring cash and you'll be able to drop that in the envelope."

    "This is a fee location but the rates are reasonable. It is right next to Route 89 so there is some traffic noise but not excessive. It has a nice view looking out towards Lake Powell."

    5. Lees Ferry Campground — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

    47 Reviews
    Marble Canyon, AZ
    19 miles
    Website

    "Being near the water is not too prevalent in the area, so getting to camp so near water would be a treat!"

    "Awesome little campground surrounded by cliffs, overlooking the Colorado River. No reservations taken, so first come first served. No hook ups. But potable water & dump station close by."

    6. Corral Dispersed — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

    25 Reviews
    Big Water, AZ
    14 miles

    "Absolutely stunning sunrise & sunset & you're right next to the white sandstone that separates UT from the AZ border."

    "Stayed 7/18/20- FREE

    Our site was situated on a “corner”, overlooking Lake Powell and with beautiful rocks behind us."

    7. Glen Canyon Dam Bridge Outlook

    18 Reviews
    Page, AZ
    10 miles

    "Big wide open parking area next to the bridge. Nothing special, but convenient."

    "You’re right next to a mini canyon so it is fun to explore"

    8. Antelope Point RV Park

    12 Reviews
    Page, AZ
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 645-5900

    "Loved the turf areas outside our camper. Being a walk or little drive to the boat ramp and having access to Lake Powell is awesome."

    "Located near Page, Arizona, this is very good choice for anyone wanting to go into the Antelope Canyon (10 to 20 minute drive from the RV park)."

    9. Roam America Horseshoe Bend

    10 Reviews
    Page, AZ
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 660-4035

    $73 - $80 / night

    "It's in a nice location, with attractive cliffs all around, and it's actually pretty close to Antelope Canyon and very close to Page itself. "

    "Brand new camping, close to everything. Amazing showers, a bit close to the road"

    10. Ferry Swale Rd - BLM Dispersed Campsite

    6 Reviews
    Big Water, AZ
    13 miles

    "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"

    "Few places next to a dirt road, super quiet. We managed well with our 24ft RV 2WD but road is first bumpy and will be sandy after"

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Recent Reviews near Lake Powell, UT

650 Reviews of 67 Lake Powell Campgrounds


  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Roam America Horseshoe Bend

    Like new beautiful campground

    Check in was easy we booked online and had requested a pull through, when we arrived our reservation was for a back in. They switched us to another site no questions asked easy least. We had a pull through with FHU, everything worked as it should. Good Wi-Fi. Nice space between sites. Would definitely stay here again.

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    Haycock Ranch Road BLM

    Convenient to Town

    Nice locations, pretty views, close to town with cell service.

  • Heather P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    Seaman Wash Dispersed

    Not good for trailers

    So this is a very, very long, box bladed, very smooth dirt road. On either side it looks as if a snow plow has come through and just piled up the dirt. In some places over 2’ high. Near the entrance, there are various places where folks have pulled off into the sand and parked/camped. However, the areas are small and still very bumpy & sandy. There are a few places where it looks like off roaders come for fun, but with all the very prickly underbrush, it’s not very “camping” friendly. The road is VERY long, and I was driving a 2WD van, towing a utility trailer. I turned down the road to scout out a place for us to park our 5th wheel for the night. Eventually the small camping spots disappeared and all there was were walls of dirt on either side with no where to turn around in site. Judging from the map the dirt road went on for a few more miles. I decided not to go any farther as there was zero cell service and my phone went into satellite SOS mode. I’m so thankful I did not get stuck trying to turn around, that would have been a very long walk in the dark back to the main road. I will say that it is very remote, and the road is wide and flat and smooth enough to just park on for the night if you don’t require a camping spot, but DO NOT attempt to pull a trailer in here unless you feel like during all the way to the end to turn around, or want to back allllll the way out. I finally stopped to turn around about 2 miles in, at the cattle guard. I very nearly got stuck in the very soft dirt. I have no idea

  • Jim M.
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Page Lake Powell Campground

    Quiet camp spot

    Clean bathrooms campground was very well maintained and staff was very friendly

  • Tiffany S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Lone Rock Beach Primitive Camping Area — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

    Serene

    Happened upon this spot 3 years ago and was so excited to be able to come back. Nice, quiet little spot right on the water. Made it down to the beach in my Honda odyssey and did just fine. Watched the most gorgeous sunset and sunrise.

    There are portalete facilities on the beach and up by the parking lot. It was quite warm in the evening, as to be expected but cooled off in the morning. A lovely 75 degrees. Quite a difference from Louisiana mornings.

  • Petr K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Antelope Point RV Park

    Good location, clean and hookups

    Located near Page, Arizona, this is very good choice for anyone wanting to go into the Antelope Canyon (10 to 20 minute drive from the RV park). The RV park is clean and looks new, has all the hookups. No restrooms although there might be showers that we did not test.

    If you want a dinner, there is a Marina restaurant very near and in the summer, they provide a small shuttle to the Marina. There is even a discount for the restaurant I think (from the RV park). The absolute best thing in the RV park is the BBQ area. New grills and a great spot to see the surrounding landscape. The camp host is very nice and friendly. Would stay here again.


Guide to Lake Powell

Lake Powell straddles the Utah-Arizona border at approximately 3,700 feet elevation, with shoreline fluctuations varying dramatically based on water levels. This desert reservoir experiences extreme seasonal temperature changes, with winter nights often dropping below freezing despite mild daytime temperatures. Many camping sites near Lake Powell, Utah offer primitive camping options without hookups, requiring campers to bring sufficient water supplies.

What to do

Beach camping at the water's edge: At Lone Rock Beach Primitive Camping Area, campers can position themselves close to the water. "You pick and choose your spot anywhere you want on the beach! Just be cautious of areas of sand but most of the beach is easy to drive on," notes Brandon F. The beach setting allows for easy water access.

Historical exploration: The Lees Ferry area provides opportunities to explore pioneer history. "Nearby historical riverfront hike at the boat launch" is recommended by Rene W. at Lees Ferry Campground. The nearby settlement was established in the 1870s as a Colorado River crossing point.

Canyon hiking: Several slot canyons and washes are accessible from camping areas. "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," writes kim at Lees Ferry Campground.

Wildlife viewing: The region hosts diverse desert wildlife including bighorn sheep. "We saw big horn sheep on the river trail," reports kim at Lees Ferry Campground. At Navajo Bridge, California condors can frequently be spotted.

What campers like

Private sites with barriers: The arrangement of campsites at several locations provides more privacy than typical desert camping. "Most picnic tables have shade structures and there are privacy barriers between many of the campsites," notes kim at Lees Ferry Campground.

Practical amenities in primitive settings: Even at more rustic locations, basic facilities are available. "There is a dump station and potable water on the way in which is a great bonus for this dispersed style of camping," explains Josh F. about Lone Rock Beach Primitive Camping Area.

Camping levels at Lone Rock: The beach area offers different camping zones based on proximity to water. "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," describes Josh F.

Modern facilities at developed campgrounds: Some Lake Powell campgrounds offer resort-like amenities. "The tent sites include a sandy pad for your tent, picnic table, fire ring, camp fire grill, and parking space. Bathrooms are close to the campsites and were clean," reports Gillian C. about Wahweap Campground & RV Park.

What you should know

High winds can create challenging conditions: The open desert landscape provides little wind protection. "When we were there the winds were 40mph gusting to 50mph so sand was all over the place," warns Francois T. about Lone Rock Beach. Wind preparation is essential for tent campers.

Off-road driving challenges: Beach and sand camping requires appropriate vehicles and driving techniques. "Would definitely scout out an area and how you want to approach it before barreling in. Might save you a headache or two," advises Mikki S. at Lone Rock Beach.

Low water levels affect lake access: Fluctuating water levels can change the distance to the shoreline. "The lake is so low that its nearly a mile from campsite," John H. noted about Wahweap Campground. Water levels should be checked before arrival.

Extremely dry conditions: The desert environment requires additional water supplies. "No water, NO TOILETS, no trash receptacles," reports Greg L. about Beehives Campground. Campers must plan accordingly for drinking and cooking needs.

Tips for camping with families

Swimming beaches: Several areas offer designated swimming access points. "Daytime dips in the lake, nighttime lakeside fires. Perfection," describes Chris S. about the Lone Rock Beach experience. The gradual beach entry is suitable for children.

Campground amenities for kids: Some developed campgrounds include facilities designed for families. "Nice clean campground with great facilities. We got here late on a road trip and hadn't made a reservation but were advised to pick a spot that wasn't taken or reserved and just register in the morning," says Kat P. about Wahweap Campground.

Safety considerations for water access: Supervising children around the water is essential. "It is the Colorado, so know the water temp stays low and cold even when it's 115 degrees out! Swimming is an absolute, but other caution is force of the water, so watch the little ones!" advises Jacob W. about Page Lake Powell Campground.

Educational opportunities: The area provides numerous learning experiences about geology and history. "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," explains kim about Cathedral Wash near Lees Ferry.

Tips from RVers

Size considerations at primitive sites: Not all locations accommodate larger RVs. "Only 6 sites just outside of Page Az. No reservations, sites are ok for TT and larger RVs," notes Greg L. about Beehives Campground.

Site selection strategies: Careful site selection can improve comfort significantly. "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," explains Bethany W. at Lone Rock Beach.

Leveling challenges: The terrain at some campgrounds requires additional equipment. "We had some issues getting our motor home level on our spot (82), but other than that, it was great," reports Lori A. about Roam America Horseshoe Bend.

Hookup availability: Services vary widely between locations. "The site was mostly level, had a picnic table and fire ring. The views of Lake Powell were amazing and we were able to get a site last minute with no reservation," explains Abner H. about dry camping at Wahweap Campground.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds near Lake Powell?

The best campgrounds near Lake Powell offer stunning views and convenient access to attractions. Page Lake Powell Campground provides level pads with nearby hiking trails and is minutes from the lake and Horseshoe Bend. For RV travelers, Antelope Point RV Park offers newer facilities with turf areas and boat ramp access. Other excellent options include Stateline dispersed camping for sweeping lake vistas, and Corral Dispersed camping featuring spectacular sandstone formations. For those willing to venture slightly farther, Basin Campground at Kodachrome Basin State Park makes a great base for exploring the broader region. Each location offers unique amenities and proximity to different lake access points and attractions.

What are the options for tent camping at Lake Powell?

Lake Powell offers diverse tent camping options for all preferences. Wahweap Campground & RV Park provides developed tent sites with bordered flat areas for setup, picnic tables, and stunning lake views. For a more primitive experience, Beehives Campground offers basic facilities with cash payment via envelope system and convenient access to Lake Powell and Horseshoe Bend. Other options include dispersed camping areas on public lands surrounding the lake and state parks within driving distance. Most tent sites require campers to bring their own water and practice leave-no-trace principles. The best tent camping locations offer proximity to the water while providing enough space for privacy and gear setup.

Can you camp on the beaches at Lake Powell?

Yes, beach camping is possible and popular at Lake Powell. Lone Rock Beach Primitive Camping Area offers one of the best beach camping experiences with sandy shoreline camping right at the water's edge. This primitive area allows campers to set up tents or park RVs directly on the beach with beautiful views and water access. National Park passes are accepted here. Another option is Warm Creek Bay Dispersed Camping, where you can find beach spots depending on water levels. Beach camping at Lake Powell requires preparation for sandy conditions, potential wind, and fluctuating water levels. Remember to pack out all trash and bring necessary supplies as services are limited at these primitive locations.

Do I need reservations for camping at Lake Powell?

Reservation requirements vary by campground type at Lake Powell. For established campgrounds like Wahweap Campground & RV Park, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season (spring through fall) when sites fill quickly. The campground offers online booking for securing specific sites in advance. In contrast, State Line Spot Dispersed Camping and other dispersed areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. For these areas, arriving mid-week or earlier in the day improves your chances of finding a spot. During holiday weekends and summer months, plan well ahead for any Lake Powell camping trip. Some locations may require entry permits or fees separate from camping costs, so check requirements before arrival.