Dispersed camping sites surround Lake Powell's shoreline with varied terrain and access points. Campers may establish sites along numerous coves and inlets where boat-in options provide maximum seclusion. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting beach access and shoreline camping availability throughout the reservoir.
What to do
Boat to secluded coves: Launch from Bullfrog Marina to access remote camping spots throughout Lake Powell. "We found a cove that was about a 40-minute boat ride from the marina and were totally secluded in our campsite, minus just a few fishermen that stopped in during the day," notes Isabelle K. at Bullfrog RV & Campground.
Explore nearby state parks: Rock Springs Bench offers free dispersed camping near Kodachrome Basin State Park. A camper reports, "I could not believe how close we were to the state park without having any other people around. We had a site all to ourself!" according to Hawkin S..
Water recreation: Lake Powell provides opportunities for skiing and wakeboarding in larger bays. "Good Hope Bay is as large as most Utah lakes. This made for ideal skiing and boarding because the bay was large enough to dissipate the waves from the passing boats," shares one visitor at Bullfrog RV & Campground.
What campers like
Uncrowded off-season stays: Visiting during shoulder seasons provides a different experience. "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," remarks Nicole B. about her stay at Bullfrog.
Night sky viewing: The remote location offers excellent stargazing opportunities. "Camping just in sleeping bags and on pads directly on the rocks was a treat under the cloudless starry skies," says Isabelle K. about her camping experience near Bullfrog.
Campsite privacy: Rock Springs Bench provides isolated sites with scenic views. "Several campsites on SR410 very private, great views of Kodacrome Basin in Grande Staircase Escalante," notes Heather E..
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Lake Powell's climate can change rapidly. "The weather can change quite rapidly at Powell so proper precautions and gear should be taken in preparation for large storms or cold winds," warns a Bullfrog camper.
Road conditions: Access to some dispersed sites depends on recent weather. "Dirt access road that can get impassable when it rains (and believe them when they say impassable!). Not a lot of dispersed camp sites, maybe 6 or 7 in this immediate area," cautions Jeff R. about Rock Springs Bench.
Facility variations: Campground amenities differ significantly between locations. "This RV park is different than the campground that you drive by on the main road on the way in. Many of the sites were out of order or had problems with their water/and or electric," reports Mike B. about his Bullfrog experience.
Tips for camping with families
Beach safety: Zebra mussels can cause foot injuries along shorelines. "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!" advises a Bullfrog visitor.
Heat protection: Summer temperatures frequently exceed 100°F. "This is a great place to camp close to the lake. Lots of sandy beaches close and lots of fun in Powell. It can get hot so having a place to get out of the sun is key," suggests Brad B. from his Lake Powell experience.
Campsite selection: Look for shaded sites when available. "Nice shade trees at each site. Well planned. Not too tight. Very clean washroom but no showers," notes DL M. about the Bullfrog campground.
Tips from RVers
Site availability: During peak season, arrive early for better site options. "I think is is best to get on the water early to beat all the house boats," recommends Dan G. about Bullfrog.
Facility considerations: Bullfrog offers varying RV accommodations between campgrounds. "Save your money for the big campground on the road and you will have a much better experience," suggests Mike B. after noting limited facility maintenance at the marina RV park.
Access for smaller trailers: Some dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs. "No problem with access for our 20' BaseCamp. About 5 or 6 sites in the area, several with pull through. Beautiful views all around," reports Grant B. about glamping in Lake Powell, Utah at the Rock Springs Bench area.
