Lake Powell straddles the Utah-Arizona border at approximately 3,700 feet elevation, featuring nearly 2,000 miles of shoreline with striking red sandstone formations. The area experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F and mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures. Camping options range from developed RV parks with full hookups to primitive beach camping directly on the lakeshore.
What to Do
Water recreation access: At Lone Rock Beach Primitive Camping Area, campers can park right on the sandy beach with easy lake access. "Great spot on the water! Can get as close to the lake as you want or short walk down to the beach area. Tons of open space available. Only $14 a night w america the beautiful pass," notes a visitor.
Hiking nearby canyons: Several trails are accessible within short driving distance from campgrounds. "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," shares a camper at Lees Ferry Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The surrounding area offers opportunities to spot local wildlife. "We saw big horn sheep on the river trail," reports a Lees Ferry visitor, while another notes that at Navajo Bridge Monument, "The condors hang out on the bridge structures. You will be able to capture amazing pictures."
What Campers Like
Off-grid camping with conveniences: Many campers appreciate the balance of primitive camping with basic amenities. "Perfect mixture of dispersed with amenities. Great sized camping area so you have plenty of space between you and your neighbor," notes a visitor about Lone Rock Beach. "There is a dump station with water and sewer on the way in which is a great bonus for this dispersed style of camping."
Swimming areas: Access to swimming spots ranks high among camper preferences at Antelope Point RV Park. "Also a swimming area nearby to take dogs to," mentions one reviewer, while another appreciates the "Daytime dips in the lake, nighttime lakeside fires. Perfection."
Unique bathroom facilities: Surprisingly, campground bathrooms receive positive attention. At Roam Horseshoe Bend, a camper shares, "3 large modern units for bathrooms, showers (soaps, shampoo and conditioner provided) and washer/dryer." Another visitor raves, "I don't care if you have a fully-equipped bathroom in your RV...you have to checkout their showers. It's a spa. Not kidding."
What You Should Know
Sand conditions for vehicles: The soft sand can be challenging for non-specialized vehicles. "Would definitely scout out an area and how you want to approach it before barreling in. Might save you a headache or two," advises a Lone Rock camper. Another notes, "The drive down from the road to the beach is very hard packed in most areas, and can easily be done in a 2WD as long as you are aware of where you are going."
Wind and weather preparation: The open areas around Lake Powell experience significant wind. At Glen Canyon Dam Bridge Outlook, a camper warns, "The wind nearly took my 2024 Dodge Ram 2500 out- but I made through the night." Lone Rock visitors also mention, "Obviously can get pretty messy with the sand if it's windy."
National park fees: Some campgrounds require payment of national park entrance fees in addition to camping fees. "Beware you will have to pay NP fee to get in unless you have annual pass," mentions an Antelope Point RV Park visitor. Another camper reports, "This RV park is located within the National Park so you have to pay to enter park grounds at the Ranger Station."
Tips for Camping with Families
Accessible beaches: Beaches with gentle slopes make for safer family swimming areas. "We stayed on the top level but for those that can brave the soft sand there are spots on the water," notes a Lone Rock camper. Another mentions the "Sandy Beach dry camping at its best. Great price and Beautiful views. Can't get much closer to the water."
Activities for children: Some campgrounds offer amenities specifically designed for children. A visitor at Antelope Point RV Park mentions "They have full hookups and some cute amenities like mini golf and barbecue areas."
Shade considerations: Plan for limited shade at many Lake Powell camping areas. At Bullfrog RV & Campground, a visitor notes, "Big campsites with a table and nice restrooms. The only problem is in the summer it can be over 100 degrees. This is a great way to see Lake Powell." Another camper advises, "Not many trees. Showers work great. Clean campground."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: RV campers should prepare for uneven sites in some locations. At Roam Horseshoe Bend, a visitor cautions, "Note: many of the sites are sloping so be ready to level a bit." Another camper shares, "We had some issues getting our motor home level on our spot (82), but other than that, it was great."
Access considerations: RV campers report varying experiences with site access. "They switched us to another site no questions asked easy least. We had a pull through with FHU, everything worked as it should," reports a visitor at Roam Horseshoe Bend.
Late arrival procedures: For RV camping near Lake Powell, Utah, late check-in options are available at some campgrounds. A Page Lake Powell Campground visitor explains, "We arrived at a late hour and it was not a problem. At reception, a sheet indicates the vacant places for the evening, simply indicate your name on the place you have chosen and come to pay the next morning."
