Arizona / Coconino County / Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Colorado River Primitive Camping Between Glen Canyon Dam And Lees Ferry

Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. Free backcountry river permits required for all watercraft, available 24/7 at the self-serve kiosk above the Lees Ferry launch ramp. Camping limited to 14 consecutive days.

About

Along the 15-mile stretch of the Colorado River between Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry lies one of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area's most unique camping opportunities. Five primitive beaches have been designated for camping, each marked with signs and accessible only by small watercraft. These boat-in sites offer an intimate wilderness experience on the Colorado River, with each site positioned well above the river requiring a short walk from your boat. Each designated camping area is equipped with vault toilets and fire pits. The sites operate on a true first-come, first-served basis with no reservations accepted. As of June 2023, all watercraft using this Glen Canyon Reach require a free backcountry river permit, available 24/7 at a self-serve kiosk in the parking lot above the Lees Ferry launch ramp. This permit system helps manage increased visitation and provides data for future management decisions. Campers must be self-sufficient and prepared for primitive conditions. River water temperatures remain a constant 48°F year-round and non-potable water is available. All garbage and litter must be packed out, though dumpsters are available at the Lees Ferry launch ramps. Fires are permitted only in provided fireplaces or portable fire pans, and wood collection is prohibited. The area experiences extreme summer heat with minimal shade, cold winters with below-freezing nights, variable spring winds, and mild fall weather.

Directions

Lees Ferry is 42 miles from Page via Highway 89 south and Highway 89A west. The park entrance is in Marble Canyon, just west of Navajo Bridge Interpretive Center. A paved road leads 5 miles to the Lees Ferry area. Use the public launch ramp to access the river and motor or paddle upstream to one of the five designated campsites.

Nearby Campgrounds