Is Colorado River Primitive Camping Between Glen Canyon Dam And Lees Ferry first-come first-served or reservation?

Colorado River Primitive Camping Between Glen Canyon Dam And Lees Ferry operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a spot.

What amenities are available at Colorado River Primitive Camping Between Glen Canyon Dam And Lees Ferry?

Colorado River Primitive Camping Between Glen Canyon Dam And Lees Ferry offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Colorado River Primitive Camping Between Glen Canyon Dam And Lees Ferry

Q: Can I see photos of campsites at Colorado River Primitive Camping Between Glen Canyon Dam And Lees Ferry before I book?

Yes! Colorado River Primitive Camping Between Glen Canyon Dam And Lees Ferry has 3 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

Q: Are dogs allowed at Colorado River Primitive Camping Between Glen Canyon Dam And Lees Ferry?

Pets are not allowed at Colorado River Primitive Camping Between Glen Canyon Dam And Lees Ferry. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

4.13

248 reviews

Colorado River upstream of Lees Ferry, Page, AZ, 86040, USA

StargazingFishing

Featured in:Camping Near Canyonlands National Park Grand Canyon

First-come, first-served

This campground doesn't take reservations — sites are claimed in person on arrival, so there's no availability to check online. Plan to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays.

Quick Facts

3,146 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

54 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

First-come, first-served

This campground doesn't take reservations — sites are claimed in person on arrival, so there's no availability to check online. Plan to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays.

Quick Facts

3,146 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

54 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Colorado River Primitive Camping Between Glen Canyon Dam And Lees Ferry

No fees available

Campsite Fees

No paid fee categories listed.

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Provider

glca_information@nps.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Colorado River upstream of Lees Ferry, Page, AZ, 86040, USA

Colorado River Primitive Camping Between Glen Canyon Dam And Lees Ferry

Colorado River upstream of Lees Ferry, Page, AZ, 86040, USA

Nearby places

Page (42 miles), North Rim of the Grand Canyon (85 miles), Marble Canyon (nearby).

Driving directionsLees Ferry is 42 miles (61 km) from Page via Hwy 89 south and Hwy 89A west. It is 85 miles (125 km) from the North Rim of the Grand Canyon via Hwy 89A and Hwy 67. The Lees Ferry Junction and Park Entrance is in Marble Canyon, just west of Navajo Bridge Interpretive Center. A paved road leads 5 miles (8 km) to the Ferry area. Use public launch ramp to access the river and motor or paddle to one of the campsites.

Weather at Colorado River Primitive Camping Between Glen Canyon Dam And Lees Ferry

Best Time to Camp at Colorado River Primitive Camping Between Glen Canyon Dam And Lees Ferry

Best season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of mild daytime temperatures (typically 60s–80s°F / 15–27°C) and cooler nights (40s–50s°F / 5–10°C), steady weather, and greatly reduced monsoon thunderstorm risk. Water-based activities — paddling, beach camping, fishing and photography of the canyon walls — are at their peak with warm water and long, clear days. Crowds thin after Labor Day, so you’ll enjoy quieter beaches and easier access to prime primitive campsites, though popular weekends still fill quickly Peak months: October, April, May, September Avoid: July, August

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Fall described as the 'sweet spot' with mild days, comfortable nights and good water conditions.

Planning Tips

About Colorado River Primitive Camping Between Glen Canyon Dam And Lees Ferry

Colorado River Primitive Camping sits along the Colorado River between Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, 3,146 feet above sea level. This National Park Service campground offers 54 primitive sites with flush toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables, accommodating tents, RVs, and dispersed camping for up to 14 days. Reviewers praise stunning canyon views, excellent trout fishing, dark skies for stargazing, and nearby hiking trails, though restrooms can be poorly maintained and potable water is not available on-site.

Primitive camping is the only type of accommodation available, with designated areas accessible by small vessels. RVs are allowed in some areas, and group camping is supported. No reservations are accepted.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of mild daytime temperatures (typically 60s–80s°F / 15–27°C) and cooler nights (40s–50s°F / 5–10°C), steady weather, and greatly reduced monsoon thunderstorm risk. Water-based activities — paddling, beach camping, fishing and photography of the canyon walls — are at their peak with warm water and long, clear days. Crowds thin after Labor Day, so you’ll enjoy quieter beaches and easier access to prime primitive campsites, though popular weekends still fill quickly Peak months: October, April, May, September Avoid: July, August

Elevation3146 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe Colorado River cuts through exposed rock layers in reds, oranges, and creams, creating a geological timeline visible from your tent. At 3,146 feet elevation, the riverine corridor contrasts sharply with surrounding high desert. Rainbow and brown trout populate the cold tailwaters below Glen Canyon Dam. Great blue herons and canyon wrens move through the riparian zone, and bighorn sheep occasionally appear on cliff faces. Desert varnish streaks the sandstone walls. The river is the only access route. Towering canyon walls shift from shadow to light throughout the day, and the darkness here rivals the Southwest's best stargazing locations.

Lodging & AccommodationsOnly primitive camping is allowed; no cabins, lodges, or other accommodations are present.

Programs & ActivitiesThe Lonely Dell Ranch is a historical site nearby, offering educational experiences about the area's history and agriculture.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14 days

Guests Allowed Per Site

Not explicitly stated.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Reservation PlatformsNo reservations accepted; camping is first-come, first-served.

AccessibilityInformation on accessibility features is not explicitly stated. However, the campground requires a short walk from the river and is only accessible via small vessels.

Site SizeCampsites are described as varying in size. Some sites are large enough for RVs, while others are smaller and tent-specific.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some sites have 'mini privacy fences,' while others are more exposed. Sites are generally close together, and users noted a lack of seclusion.

Total Campsites54 campsites

Recommended SitesArrive early to secure a site as the campground fills quickly. Consider sites with shade structures during hot weather.

Amenities available

The Colorado River Primitive Camping Between Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry offers five primitive beaches designated for camping along a 15-mile stretch of the Colorado River. The campsites are only accessible by small vessels and are situated well above the river, requiring a short walk from your boat. Fire pits and basic toilet facilities are provided. Potable water availability is unclear, and there are no showers. The campground is designed for a first-come, first-served system and lacks electricity or water hookups. Toilets are flush-style, but reviews indicate frequent maintenance issues. Each site includes a picnic table, some with shade structures.

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Activities include hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing, with opportunities for boating and exploring historical sites like Lonely Dell Ranch. The area is known for its stunning views, dark skies for stargazing, and access to the Colorado River.

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.1

248 reviews

Satisfactory

Colorado River Primitive Camping Between Glen Canyon Dam And Lees Ferry is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews are generally positive, praising the scenic beauty, proximity to the Colorado River, and opportunities for activities like hiking and fishing. However, consistent complaints include poorly maintained facilities, such as non-functional toilets and limited potable water.

Review Summaries

Based on 248 reviews

What Campers Love

'Stunning views,' 'excellent trout fishing,' 'dark skies for stargazing,' and 'nearby hiking trails' were commonly cited as highlights. Visitors also appreciated the 'peaceful and beautiful'...

Based on 248 reviews

Common Concerns

Key issues include 'non-functional and unsanitary toilets,' 'lack of potable water,' and 'high winds.' Some users also noted overcrowding and maintenance neglect, such as full payment boxes and...

Based on 248 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific details about campsites are limited. Users generally noted that outer-loop sites are better for RVs, while inner-loop sites support tents.

Based on 248 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Arrive early to secure a spot as it is first-come, first-served. Bring stakes for tents due to rocky ground and prepare for high winds. Visitors recommended nearby attractions like Cathedral Wash and...

Based on 248 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is popular but can be hot and windy. Spring and fall are ideal due to milder weather. Winter visits were less common but noted for peacefulness.

Based on 248 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Five star view. Minus stars for campground.' 2. 'What a hidden gem! Make sure to do the Cathedral Wash hike.' 3. 'Bathrooms were clean - no paper towels to dry hands but there was soap.' 4. 'The...

Based on 248 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility for disabled visitors is not thoroughly reviewed, but the terrain and access requirements suggest limited accessibility.

Based on 248 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet policies or reviews related to pets were not mentioned.

Based on 248 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want budget riverside access for fishing, paddling, and stargazing in Glen Canyon with basic facilities and a 14-day stay limit.

Skip if

You need potable water on-site, consistently clean restrooms, or guaranteed solitude during peak season.

Nearby Campgrounds

4.1

(248)

Lees Ferry Campground

PO Box 1507 Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Page, AZ, 86040, USA

Lees Ferry Campground sits at the confluence of the Paria River and the Colorado River in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, 40 miles north of Flagstaff and beneath the towering Vermilion Cliffs. This National Park Service campground serves as the put-in point for Grand Canyon river trips and a renowned trout fishery. Visitors come for world-class fly fishing, stargazing, and access to historic river crossings and slot canyon hikes.

Beehives Primitive Campground

Ferry Swale Rd, Off Hwy 89, Page, AZ 86040, USA

Beehives Campground sits at 3,891 feet in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area near Page, Arizona, offering 6 primitive sites with picnic tables and direct access to the Wave trails. This National Park Service campground accommodates tents and RVs with a 3-day stay limit. Reviewers praise the outstanding red-rock views, spacious sites, and good cell signal, though highway noise and minimal amenities (no restrooms or garbage bins) are trade-offs.

Wahweap Campground & Rv Park

Lake Powell Resorts & Marinas, PO Box 1926, Page, AZ, 86040, USA

Wahweap Campground sits on the Arizona shore of Lake Powell within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, minutes from Page and the marina. Operated by Aramark, this very large campground offers full-hookup RV sites, tent camping, and primitive options amid red sandstone foothills. Visitors come for boating, fishing, and swimming on the lake, plus easy access to nearby slot canyons and desert trails.

Antelope Point Rv Park

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Antelope Point RV Park sits in the foothills of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, offering full-hookup RV sites with electric, water, and sewer connections. The large campground provides showers, a dump station, potable water, WiFi, and allows pets. Visitors use the park as a base for boating, swimming, hiking, and photography on Lake Powell, with golf cart shuttle service connecting sites to the nearby marina.

White House Campground

Kanab Field Office 669 S Highway 89A, Kanab, UT 84747

White House Campground sits in mid-elevation forest near Kanab, operated by the Bureau of Land Management as a small, budget-friendly base for exploring slot canyons and the Paria River drainage. The campground offers primitive and tent sites with vault toilets, potable water, fire rings, and picnic tables, plus a 14-day stay limit and pet-friendly policy. Striking rock formations surround the sites, and trailheads for permitted hikes lie within easy reach.

$12.00 - $12.00 / night

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Dirty Devil Primitive Camping Area

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Dirty Devil Primitive Camping sits in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area foothills near Hanksville, Utah, where the Dirty Devil River meets Lake Powell. This primitive campground offers vault toilets and dispersed sites along a riverbank known for its striking brown water and canyon scenery. Managed by the National Park Service, it draws canyoneers, photographers, and adventurers seeking solitude in a rugged desert landscape.

Primitive

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Campgrounds

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Colorado River Primitive Camping Between Glen Canyon Dam And Lees Ferry

About Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Context for the broader area surrounding Colorado River Primitive Camping Between Glen Canyon Dam And Lees Ferry, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

Encompassing over 1.25 million acres, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area offers unparalleled opportunities for water-based & backcountry recreation. The recreation area stretches for hundreds of miles from Lees Ferry in Arizona to the Orange Cliffs of southern Utah, encompassing scenic vistas, geologic wonders, and a vast panorama of human history.

Directions

There are multiple districts in Glen Canyon very far away from each other. Avoid a two hundred mile detour and make sure you know which district you are going to before you begin travelling here.