Colorado River Primitive Camping Between Glen Canyon Dam And Lees Ferry

4.17

248 reviews

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

StargazingFishing

Featured in:Camping Near Canyonlands National Park Grand Canyon

Quick Facts

3,146 ft

Price

$20 - $30/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

54 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

3,146 ft

Price

$20 - $30/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

54 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Colorado River Primitive Camping Between Glen Canyon Dam And Lees Ferry

$20.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The fee for accessing the recreation area is $30 per vehicle, valid for one week. Camping costs $20 per night, collected daily via a self-serve pay...

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider

glca_carl_hayden_vc@nps.gov

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What Campers Say

4.17

Satisfactory

Based on 248 reviews

277 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewspeacefulhiking

"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."

Read all reviews

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

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.

The campground is accessible by a paved road leading 5 miles (8 km) from the Ferry area. Small vessels are required to access the campsites, and all sites are located above the river, necessitating a walk from the boat.

Nearby places

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

Nearby supplies

A gas station with groceries, ice, water, and laundry is located approximately 2 miles from the campground.

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

Experience the desert's dramatic personality throughout the year in this sun-drenched canyon country. Summer days bring intense warmth that makes river activities especially refreshing, while winter transforms the landscape into a crisp wonderland where nighttime temperatures demand cozy sleeping bags and crackling campfires. Evening winds sweep through the canyon like clockwork, carrying the day's heat away and ushering in spectacular stargazing conditions under some of the darkest skies in the Southwest.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Summer popular but very hot and windy; river activities are refreshing alternatives.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall noted as ideal season with milder weather and good activity conditions.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring called ideal—milder temps, popular for river activities and hiking.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round; winter visits less common but peaceful; colder conditions limit some activities.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak seasons are not explicitly mentioned.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground is open year-round.
Current Alerts: No active alerts for closures or other issues are specified in the provided data.

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

Discover a hidden gem where five pristine beaches dot the dramatic 15-mile corridor between Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry. These secluded primitive campsites, accessible only by small watercraft, offer an authentic wilderness experience along the legendary Colorado River. Each beach comes equipped with essential amenities including toilets and fire pits, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. Due to their extraordinary beauty and limited availability, these coveted spots fill quickly on a first-come, first-served basis, making early arrival essential for securing your piece of riverside paradise.

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.

Historical SignificanceStep into the pages of Western history where ancient cultures and pioneer spirits converge. Just moments away, the weathered buildings of Lonely Dell Ranch whisper tales of early settlers who carved out lives in this rugged landscape. The nearby historic Navajo Bridge Interpretive Center stands as a testament to engineering marvels and cultural crossroads, offering fascinating insights into the indigenous peoples and adventurous souls who have called this dramatic canyon country home for generations.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the desert's dramatic personality throughout the year in this sun-drenched canyon country. Summer days bring intense warmth that makes river activities especially refreshing, while winter transforms the landscape into a crisp wonderland where nighttime temperatures demand cozy sleeping bags and crackling campfires. Evening winds sweep through the canyon like clockwork, carrying the day's heat away and ushering in spectacular stargazing conditions under some of the darkest skies in the Southwest.

ElevationWhile specific elevation data remains unrecorded for these riverside camps, visitors will experience the unique microclimate created by the river corridor, where canyon walls rise dramatically from the water's edge, creating a world unto itself within the greater Colorado Plateau.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a photographer's paradise where towering canyon walls paint ever-changing shadows across emerald waters. The Colorado River serves as both your highway and entertainment, teeming with rainbow and brown trout that dance beneath the surface. Desert varnish streaks the sandstone cliffs in nature's own artwork, while great blue herons and canyon wrens provide the soundtrack. As evening approaches, watch for bighorn sheep navigating impossible ledges and listen for the haunting calls of migrating waterfowl using this vital corridor as their seasonal highway.

Geological RegionNestled within the magnificent Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, these campsites occupy a geological wonderland where millennia of river carving has exposed ancient rock layers in a rainbow of reds, oranges, and creams. This 15-mile aquatic trail between Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry showcases the raw power of water against stone, creating a living museum of Earth's history. The unique riverine ecosystem thrives in stark contrast to the surrounding high desert, creating an oasis of life where two worlds meet in spectacular fashion.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

First-come, first-served basis
no specific check-in time is mentioned.

Check-out

Check-out time is not explicitly stated.

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

Site layoutThe campground consists of a large loop split in half by the entrance road. The outer sites are back-in sites for RVs and tents, while the inner sections have shared tent-only sites.

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

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability for all sites with signs marking designated camping areas. No reservations.

Cancellation PolicyCamping is first-come, first-served. No reservation system applies, hence no cancellation policy is outlined.

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

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

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.

HikingSeveral nearby hiking trails are available, including the Cathedral Wash hike, which is highly recommended by users. Trails vary in difficulty, and some reviewers described them as amazing but tricky.

FishingThe Colorado River offers excellent fishing opportunities, especially for trout. One user mentioned participating in a 'brown trout bounty $25 for each trout.'

BikingBiking activities are popular and enjoyed by visitors, as noted in reviews like 'My boys did a lot of hiking and biking there.'

BoatingBoating is a key activity, with access to the Colorado River allowing campers to explore upstream. Dedicated camping sites upstream can be accessed by boat.

Wildlife viewingThe area offers diverse wildlife viewing opportunities, with the stunning natural surroundings adding to the experience.

Beach activitiesThe campsite locations include beaches, providing opportunities for relaxation and picnics near the water.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include strong wind gusts, rocky ground that makes setting up tents difficult, and proximity to water requiring safety precautions. Wildlife encounters are also possible.

Active AlertsNo active alerts for closures or other issues are specified in the provided data.

Fire PolicyFire pits are available at each campsite, but no specific fire regulations are provided.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours unspecified, but user reviews indicate noise levels vary depending on visitor adherence to rules.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services are in Page, AZ, which is 42 miles away.

Trash & RecyclingTrash facilities are not explicitly mentioned. Some reviews indicate concerns about maintenance, such as payment boxes not being emptied.

Water FeaturesSituated directly above the Colorado River, all campsites are within walking distance to the river and provide river views.

Camp HostNo campground host is mentioned; maintenance and ranger presence is intermittent.

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

Reviews

4.2

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

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

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

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

0 review

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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