Best RV Camping At Lake Powell: Beachfront By The Resevoir
As full-time RVers, we are always in search of the next best place to travel in our home on wheels. We have stayed in campgrounds, RV parks, and free sites on public lands all over North America and the view of glistening blue waters and orange rocks at our site near Lake Powell is still one of our favorites! In this article, we break down the best RV camping at Lake Powell including paid campgrounds, RV resorts, and RV spots and campsites on public lands and within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
The areas in and around Lake Powell are ripe for adventure, making it the perfect destination for your next RV road trip!
About Lake Powell
Lake Powell is a vast reservoir, created by the construction of the Glen Canyon Dam on the Colorado River. Located in the picturesque region spanning southern Utah and northern Arizona in the United States, the reservoir stretches over 186 miles in length and encompasses parts of the stunning Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
Nestled amidst the captivating desert landscape, beautiful Lake Powell boasts breathtaking vistas and a tranquil atmosphere that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. However, in recent years, the lake’s water level has experienced a noticeable decline, causing the shoreline of Lake Powell to recede. Despite this, the allure of Lake Powell remains undiminished, offering a unique opportunity to witness the interplay between the majestic rock formations and the shimmering waters that continue to carve their way through the awe-inspiring canyons.
Where is Lake Powell
Located on Arizona and Utah’s northern border, the closest towns to one of the most visited areas of Lake Powell are Page and Big Water. The town of Page, Arizona has everything you might need during your RV trip, including a Walmart (which at the time of our trip you could stay at overnight for free) and several restaurants.
Best Time To Visit
Our spring visit to Lake Powell afforded us sunny days, mild days, and smaller crowds (although they were on the uptick). Depending on the time of year you visit, you can experience much different weather and very different crowd sizes during your Lake Powell camping trip:
JUNE- AUGUST: Peak tourist season at Lake Powell is during the summer months when the weather is warm and ideal for water activities such as boating, swimming, and fishing. However, it’s important to note that during this time, the lake and local camping areas can be quite crowded.
APRIL-MAY & SEP.-OCT.: For a more serene experience with milder temperatures, spring and fall are excellent times to visit. During these seasons, you can still enjoy water activities while avoiding the peak crowds. The weather is generally pleasant, although spring in southern Utah is known to be a very windy season and this was true during our visit in early April.
NOVEMBER – MARCH: Winter months offer a quieter and more secluded experience at Lake Powell. While water activities may be limited due to colder temperatures and seasonal businesses, the stunning rock formations, and canyons are still accessible for hiking, photography, and exploring. It’s important to check weather conditions and be prepared for cooler temperatures during this time.
RV Camping Near Lake Powell
Surrounded by natural beauty and vast recreation areas, there are several great options for RV camping at Lake Powell and in the surrounding bays. Whether you are looking for full hook-ups or dry camping on the beach, there is something for everyone.
Dry Camping & Public Boondocking
Many of the beach camping areas near Lake Powell lie within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and are run by the National Park Service.
Glen Canyon Recreation Area covers a large area so be sure to choose where you stay wisely (we provide a map with all camping locations below). Some RV camping areas are closer to the conveniences of Page at the Arizona/Utah border, while others are located farther north in Utah and are more remote and removed.
Lone Rock Beach Primitive Camping Area
Lone Rock Beach is still one of our favorite stays to this day. We visited during the spring season and had plenty of space to choose from and enjoyed stunning views out of every window of our RV. For the price and location, you really can’t beat this experience.
This area can get really crowded during the summer months, so you may want to plan for shoulder season to enjoy more privacy, but just note that potable water and the dump station will most likely not be available so you will have to plan accordingly.
The low water level of Lake Powell and Wahweap Bay has caused there to be a steep shoreline from the beach down to the water at Lone Rock Beach. This being said, it is still a beautiful stay and it is possible to get down to the water. Just note that the ground may look hard and dry where the water has receded, but in many places, it is more like quicksand and will promptly cover you in thick mud that is hard to get out of.
Learn from our personal experience and watch your step! Walking out to Lone Rock was an adventure, but a messy one and could get dangerous.
Cost: $14/night first come, first served + $30 entrance fee (National Parks Passes accepted)
Features: Seasonal dump station, seasonal potable water, seasonal trash, 4 micro flush toilets, 6 vault toilets, 1 comfort station/wheelchair accessible, outdoor cold shower. There is also access to an off-road vehicle area. This area has a 14-night stay limit
If you want to stay here, but haven’t dry camped before – check out our complete guide to RV boondocking for beginners to help you set yourself up for success!
Beehive Campground
Beehive Campground is a small designated camping area that is conveniently located directly across the street from Lake Powell and the Glen Canyon Dam. No frills, but a good central location for a short stay.
Cost: $14/night first come, first served + $30 entrance fee (National Parks Passes accepted)
Features: 6 designated sites with a picnic table at each site. No hookups, dump stations, or restrooms available. No campfires or glass containers. Three-night camping limit.
Lees Ferry Campground
After hiking Lees Ferry and Spenser Trail Lookout, marveling at the rare California Condors flying overhead, and dipping our toes in the Colorado River, we spent some time driving through the Lees Ferry Campground.
This is a great location for a quieter stay away from the crowds of Page and Lone Rock Beach and has beautiful canyon views and close proximity to the Colorado River (some sites even have river views!).
This area had zero cell service when we visited, so Starlink would be a must if you need internet while staying here.
Cost: $20/night first served + $30 entrance fee (National Parks Passes accepted)
Features: 54 designated sites, no hookups (dry camping). RV dump station on site. Grills and picnic tables provided, no open fires allowed. Modern bathroom/comfort station, potable water available, launch ramp 2 miles from the campground.
Staunton Creek Campground
Remote, dry camping with great views of the north section of Lake Powell. Some sections of this camping area may be friendly for bigger RVs, while others may require 4×4 clearance and be more suitable for tenters or off-road capable vehicles.
We recommend reading reviews on Campendium for this spot for details about the best directions for your type of RV, should you choose to stay here.
Cost: $12/night first come, first served + $30 entrance fee (National Parks Passes accepted)
Features: Designated primitive camping areas that are accessible by vehicle and sometimes by vessel as well. First-come first served, no reservations. No designated sites. No potable water.
- Lone Rock Beach Campground (best lake powell camping spots)- miles of shoreline, beach camping great views, primitive camping area, tent sites, no designated sites, National Park Service – not free camping spots, but a good price and well worth visiting
- entrance fee:
- cell service
- Primitive campsites on public land / BLM area – more like a parking lot – free camping sites, dirt roads
Private Lake Powell Campgrounds & RV Parks
For a more traditional RV camping experience with additional amenities available, you can opt for a stay at a local private park or a park run by one of the National Park Service concessioners.
Most of these options will provide you with the option to reserve sites in advance if you want to plan ahead, as well as provide RV hook-ups if your RV is not off-grid ready.
Page-Lake Powell Campground
A cheaper option than nearby Wahweap Campground, Page-Lake Powell Campground offers good views of the water, walking distance to the lake, more amenities, and closer proximity to downtown Page.
Cost: $25/night for dry camping, $45/night for water and electric, $50/night for full hookups
Features: pull-through campsites, full hookups for water, electricity, and sewer, a shower house, a laundry room, a fitness room, a playground, an indoor pool and hot tub, walking trails, WiFi access, cable TV, a community space, propane refill services, an on-site store, and an on-site manager
The Canyons RV Resort & Cabins
The Canyons RV Resort and Cabins is a new luxury RV resort located near the heart of Page Arizona, not far from Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend, and the Glen Canyon Dam.
Cost: $65-$100/night depending on the site and time of visit
Features: Full hook-up sites with bathhouse, laundry, and lodge on site. The park is still expanding, with features like a pool and on-site dining coming soon.
There are also two RV parks run by the National Park Service official concessioners:
Wahweap Campground & RV Park
Located in the heart of it all right at the Wahweap Marina, 1/4 of a mile from the shore of Lake Powell. Wahweap Campground offers all of the amenities and great proximity to much of what Lake Powell has to offer, but like The Canyons RV Resort, it does come at a price!
Cost: Dry sites (no hook-ups) and tent sites start around $30/night, with FHU sites ranging from $68-$88/night + $30 entrance fee (America the Beautiful National Parks Pass accepted)
Features: 112 dry campsites (no hook-ups), 90 full hook-ups, and 6 group camping sites. Facilities include restrooms, laundry, showers, store, phones, dump station and potable water, which are available year-round.
Bullfrog RV Park & Campground
Sitting on the northern half of Lake Powell not far from Ticaboo Utah, Bullfrog offers two separate camping areas, located near Bullfrog Marina and Bullfrog Bay. While located on Lake Powell, it would take about 5 hours to reach attractions near Page Arizona like Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon so this would be best selected if you plan to spend your time around this specific section of Lake Powell.
It is convenient to Capitol Reef National Park, which is located about 1.5 hours north.
Cost: Average of $46/night + $30 entrance fee (America the Beautiful National Parks Pass accepted)
RV Park Features:
- 18 pull-through spaces and 4 back-in spaces for RVs that offer full hook-ups and can accommodate up to 50′ long RVs, 30-amp power, restrooms, showers, charcoal grills, and tables
Campground Features:
- 80 concrete padded sites that can accommodate tents and RV’s, restrooms, charcoal Grills, fire ring and tables
Lake Powell Camping Map
As a reminder, the campgrounds on the northern section of Lake Powell can be deceivingly far from the spots located near Page on the Utah/Arizona border. We recommend deciding what you plan to do during your stay and choosing a centrally located RV site in one of these two areas of Lake Powell.
Tips For RVing To Lake Powell
We visited Lake Powell, Big Water Utah, and Page Arizona in the first year of our full-time RV adventure. We planned out a 1 year RV road trip following the weather and headed to Lake Powell after visiting the Grand Canyon and before heading up to Zion National Park to hike The Narrows and explore the rest of Utah’s “mighty five” National Parks!
Our drive north from the Grand Canyon was stunning…but not necessarily the easiest tow with an RV.
Here are some things to keep in mind when RVing to Lake Powell:
Towing Directions
The directions are pretty straightforward, as there is one main road leading into and out of the Lake Powell area (Highway 89).
From the North:
- Starting from the north, take US-89 South towards Page, Arizona.
- Continue on US-89 South until you reach Page.
- In Page, follow the signs for Lake Powell and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
From the South:
- If you are coming from the south, take US-89 North towards Page, Arizona.
- Stay on US-89 North until you reach Page.
- In Page, follow the signs for Lake Powell and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
We use the RV LIFE RV safe GPS to give us peace of mind when towing our tiny home on wheels to new places to make sure we don’t get caught in any sketchy situations. We use this app along with many others as full-time RVers.
Read more about why it is our single favorite RV travel app and the help it provides with route planning, finding camp spots, and RV-safe navigation!
Factors To Be Mindful Of:
- Steep grades: Depending on your route, you may encounter steep grades, particularly if you’re approaching from the north or south. It’s important to be aware of the grade and ensure that your vehicle is capable of safely navigating uphill and downhill sections. Take it slow and use lower gears if necessary.
- Narrow roads: Some roads leading to Lake Powell, especially those within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, may be narrower, winding, or have limited shoulder space (as you can see from our video). Pay attention to signage, drive within the designated lanes, and exercise caution when passing or encountering oncoming traffic.
- Limited services: While there are facilities and services available in the area, it’s important to note that some remote sections near Lake Powell may have limited amenities. Plan your fuel stops, rest breaks, and necessary supplies in advance to ensure you have what you need during your journey. (RV LIFE can be extremely helpful for this type of planning using the Trip Wizard feature)
- Weather conditions: Be aware of the weather conditions, especially during the monsoon season (July to September) when heavy rains can cause flash floods in the area. Stay informed about weather forecasts and road conditions, and avoid traveling during inclement weather or flooded roads.
Cell Reception & Connectivity
During the time of our visit, cell service in the area surrounding Lake Powell was pretty poor. We had good enough T-mobile cell service at Lone Rock Beach to make basic phone calls and our Verizon data plan with our antenna boosting was enough to get by at work, but it was shaky at best and a bit stressful.
At that point in our RV journey we did not yet have Starlink, but we would highly recommend Starlink if you plan to work or need a solid internet connection while visiting Lake Powell. The sky is open in most places, making it a prime candidate for this game-changing satellite internet!
Read more: Starlink Roam RV Nomad Internet
What To Pack
Here are some things we recommend packing while RV camping at Lake Powell:
- Water Bladder for adding water to your RV fresh water tank during extended boondocking
- Portable Waste Tank for dumping your RV gray and black tanks without having to move your RV if they become full
- Some form of mobile internet if you need to be connected during your trip (cell service is poor in this area). We recommend Starlink for RVing at Lake Powell, but cell-based data plans may also work depending on your needs and if you have a booster
- Traction pads or wood/shovel in case you get stuck in the sand
- Hiking basics like hiking shoes, Camelbak, sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, sunglasses, first-aid kit
- Watercraft (we love our 2-person inflatable kayak!)
- A complete set of the best apps for RVing to help you make the most of your adventure (like planning where to fill water or dump if you visit during the off-season)!
Fulfilling Travel Tips
The best RV camping at Lake Powell is the kind where everything goes off without a hitch! Here are some tips to prepare yourself for a stress-free trip:
- Sand can be deeper and softer than it appears. Learn from the several RVs we saw getting stuck in the sand each day. If you plan to camp on the beach, walk the path to your site first before driving it. Consider purchasing traction boards to have on hand if you get in a bind
- Prepare for wind. We found the area near Lake Powell to be quite windy. Make sure outdoor items are secured each night and don’t leave your awnings out unattended
- Expect sand to get everywhere (you will be finding it in your RV for a while). It’s part of the experience!
- This area and its attractions are popular. Try to visit outside of peak season and plan your excursions early in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Don’t forget to explore areas off the beaten path. There are some great hidden gems on the local public lands and you most likely won’t see many other hikers. We recommend Skylight Arch and Ressurection Canyon!
- Depending on the time of year and what happens with daylight savings time…you may experience a time change when traveling back and forth across the Arizona/Utah border to explore. Just a heads up, as this can be a bit confusing!
Nearby Attractions & Outdoor Recreation
RV Camping at Lake Powell is just the tip of the iceberg! Lake Powell is the perfect destination for water activities like paddle boarding, kayaking, jet skiing, and boat tours. Beyond the lake, the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is full of great hikes, backpacking spots, and otherworldly terrain just waiting to be explored.
We only touched the surface of all that there is to do in the area during our 2-week stay at Lone Rock Beach!
- Glen Canyon National Recreation Area: A stunning and expansive outdoor playground, encompassing beautiful canyons, red rock cliffs, and the serene waters of Lake Powell. It is popular for water recreation, as well as backcountry adventures
- Antelope Canyon: A slot canyon renowned for its exquisite beauty and swirling patterns formed by thousands of years of water erosion. Divided into Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon. To visit you must book and pay for a tour (ideally in advance as they fill up quickly). We opted to explore the slot canyons in nearby Buckskin Gulch instead, but many people rave about this experience!
- Horseshoe Bend: A mesmerizing natural wonder located near Page, Arizona, where the Colorado River curves gracefully, creating a distinctive horseshoe-shaped bend amidst the stunning red rock cliffs and canyons. There is a $10 entrance fee (not covered by any National Park passes) and you can expect this to be VERY busy. We recommend hiking out to the left or right of the main viewpoint to enjoy the views with some peace and quiet.
- Glen Canyon Dam: Situated on the Colorado River in northern Arizona, this stands as a remarkable engineering feat, forming Lake Powell and providing hydroelectric power, water storage, and recreational opportunities in the surrounding area. Visit the Glen Canyon Dam Overlook, The Glen Canyon Dam Bridge, and Carl Hayden Visitor Center!
- Grand Canyon National Park: Showcases the immense beauty and geological grandeur of the massive canyon carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, offering breathtaking vistas, hiking trails, and an unparalleled outdoor experience. A destination that truly took our breath away.
- Lees Ferry: a historic site where pioneers and explorers once crossed the Colorado River, serving as a crucial river crossing point and now offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the area. This area offers great hiking and you can also watch rafting trips as they embark on their journey to the Grand Canyon.
- Colorado River: The Colorado River is a mighty and iconic river that winds its way through the southwestern United States, carving deep canyons and providing a lifeline to the arid landscapes of the region, including its crucial role in the formation of the Grand Canyon.
- Navajo Nation: Spanning portions of Arizona, Utah, and New Mexico, is a sovereign Native American territory that encompasses stunning landscapes, including parts of the Grand Canyon and areas of cultural significance, providing the opportunity for a rich cultural experience and the chance to explore the Navajo people’s heritage and traditions. When driving to Lake Powell from the south you will pass through parts of the Navajo Nation.
- Popular Guided Tours & Activities in The Page Arizona/ Lake Powell area:
Other Nearby Destinations For Your Road Trip or RV Adventure
- Monument Valley (2 hours east): Backdrop to the iconic scene from Forest Gump
- Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument (30 minutes – 4 hours, depending on where you explore). Home to remote hikes, waterfalls, and slot canyons amidst a colorful landscape
- Zion National Park (2 hours northwest): Amazing hiking, climbing, and canyoneering with stunning canyon views
- If you are headed north from Lake Powell and have time for an extended trip, we highly recommend exploring some of the other great National Parks in Utah as well (Arches National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Bryce Canyon National Park)
Read More with our guides to Utah’s National Parks:
- Hiking the Syncline Loop in Canyonlands National Park
- Hiking The Needles in Canyonlands National Park
- Best Places To See Sunrise in Arches National Park
- Complete Guide to Devil’s Garden in Arches National Park
- Guide to the Fiery Furnace in Arches National Park
PLAN YOUR MOST EPIC RV TRIP
One of the best ways to boost the benefits of travel and vacation is by combining it with the restorative powers of nature! Camping, RVing, and glamping can be great ways to do this, and can often be very cost-effective as well!
If you are looking for the perfect one-stop shop for comparing RV parks and glamping options and prices with instant booking, we highly recommend Campspot.
Our other favorite resources for finding great campgrounds and campsites and reading reviews include Campendium, RV Life, and iOverlander.
You can also check out HipCamp and TheDyrt for more unique camping experiences and accommodations.
Looking to rent an RV? Consider renting one through RV Share. You can search for availability near you or your destination and explore a variety of RVs! We used this service when renting out our Casita and found them to be high quality and easy to use!