Paria River Ranch is an equestrian-focused property situated between Kanab and Page in southern Utah. The facility combines horse rescue operations with trail riding opportunities through nearby public lands. Campers with RVs and horse trailers can access hookups with advance reservations. The ranch sits in the remote landscape of the Grand Staircase-Escalante region, requiring self-sufficiency due to its distance from services.
What to do
Explore slot canyons: Kitchen Corral Wash Dispersed Site provides convenient access to nearby Buckskin Gulch. "Short driving distance to Buckskin Canyon," notes Tamara S., who stayed with a 25-foot trailer and found the dirt roads manageable.
Enjoy night sky viewing: The remote location offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. At Antelope Hogan Bed and Breakfast, Richardson E. recommends: "The property is exclusive and off the grid. Don't forget to look up at the night sky, beautiful star lite."
Photograph rock formations: The distinctive geology around Rock Springs Bench provides excellent photography opportunities. "We came here on a Friday night in mid-June before exploring Kodachrome Basin State Park. I could not believe how close we were to the state park without having any other people around," reports Hawkin S.
What campers like
Privacy and solitude: The dispersed camping areas near Lake Powell offer separation from crowds. At Kitchen Corral Wash, Tamara S. appreciated that "No one else was there! So amazing to have a cup of coffee and view the beautiful landscape."
Clean facilities: When choosing established campgrounds over dispersed sites, campers consistently mention facility quality. At Bryce View Campground, Lisa N. observed: "The bathrooms and showers are clean and the best we have seen for a State Park."
Wildlife viewing: The desert landscape supports surprising biodiversity. One camper at Bryce View Campground noted: "Beautiful sunrise and sunsets! Lots of wildlife surprisingly. Somewhat quiet, there was about 5 other tents and a few were drinking so they had gotten rowdy."
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Access to many horse campgrounds near Lake Powell, Utah requires careful vehicle selection. At Henrieville Creek, Justin C. warns: "The road in needs a high clearance 4 wheel drive vehicle. We could not drive in. The camping spot looked nice, quiet and tucked away."
Weather impacts: Rain can dramatically affect accessibility. At Rock Springs Bench, Jeff R. cautions: "Dirt access road that can get impassable when it rains (and believe them when they say impassable!)."
Limited services: Most sites near Lake Powell lack amenities. Christian M. notes about Kitchen Corral Wash: "Optd to camp out here for the night. Was about 3 miles back off HW 89. Super peaceful area. Was able to pull my 22ft TT with my Ram 1500 just fine on the way to the spot."
Tips for camping with families
Pack plenty of water: No potable water exists at most dispersed camping locations around Lake Powell, requiring complete self-sufficiency for families.
Consider alternative accommodations: For families seeking more amenities, Paria River Ranch offers an educational experience. Cindy notes: "The work the owner is doing here by rescuing horses, donkeys, and goats is so important."
Prepare for isolation: Cell service varies throughout the region. Tamara S. reported from Kitchen Corral Wash: "No problem with our Verizon phones." However, coverage remains spotty in many areas.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Larger RVs need to carefully assess site suitability. Christian M. shares about Kitchen Corral Wash: "You could probably get up to a 30ft TT or RV back there. There were a lot of spots available, just need to continue driving back."
Generator restrictions: For equestrian campers with RVs seeking organized campgrounds near Lake Powell, be aware of generator policies. Mary S. notes about Bryce View Campground: "Generators may only be run between noon and 4 pm. That's a great rule because most people are exploring the park at that time."
Road hazards: RVers should exercise caution on backcountry roads. Grant B. stayed at Rock Springs Bench with "No problem with access for our 20' BaseCamp" but others report challenges on the same roads during wet conditions.
