Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
RV Rental Dates
Introduction
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, located in the southwestern United States, holds a rich history and cultural significance. The area was primarily shaped by the construction of the Glen Canyon Dam, completed in 1966, which created Lake Powell, one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the country. Covering approximately 2,000 square miles of both land and water, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area stands as an exceptional spot for camping and outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning from Lees Ferry in Arizona to Orange Cliffs in Utah, this park boasts magnificent landscapes, breathtaking panoramas, and awe-inspiring geological marvels that are a must-visit for any RV camper.
RV renters visiting Glen Canyon National Recreation Area can enjoy a wide range of activities. Boating and fishing on Lake Powell are popular choices, as well as hiking through the rugged terrain to witness the breathtaking vistas and explore hidden canyons. The recreation area offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, stargazing, and photography, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty. Moreover, there are opportunities for mountain biking and guided tours to make the most of your time at the park.
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The park offers six RV campgrounds, each providing various options for RVs, including full hookups, partial hookups, and sites with no hookups. These campgrounds usually provide drinking water, restrooms, picnic areas, and dump stations. Some may even offer hookups for electricity and water. Reservations are recommended, especially during the peak season.
The peak season for visiting Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is generally from late spring to early fall when the weather is most accommodating for outdoor activities. During this time, the area attracts a considerable number of tourists and adventurers, so early planning and reservations are advised to secure a spot at the campgrounds and ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience at this spectacular and culturally significant destination.
RV Rentals in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Park Alerts (4)
- [Attention] Rainbow Bridge Dock Access Unavailable
Please note that the docks and restroom facilities are now located upstream and are not connected to the Rainbow Bridge trail shoreline. If you have a small vessel, you may beach it at the shoreline, but be aware of potential hazards such as quicksand and scrambling. Ensure you have sufficient fuel for your vessel to make the round trip safely.
- [Particulars] Temporary Closure of Dangling Rope Marina
Due to significant wind damage and low water conditions, the Dangling Rope Marina is currently closed until further notice. The damaged docks pose a safety risk to both visitors and employees, and as such, access to the marina is restricted until repairs are completed.
- [Particulars] Closure of Hite Fuel and Convenience Store
The Hite retail store, pay-at-the-pump fuel service, visitor comfort station, and designated camping areas will be closed until further notice. However, the public restrooms at the Hite Ranger Station, the fresh drinking water spigot, and the RV dump station remain open. Please plan your fuel needs accordingly in light of this closure.
- [Attention] Recreational Water Advisory for Lake Powell
For those engaging in recreational activities, such as swimming, water skiing, or building sand castles on the beaches or in the waters of Lake Powell, it is strongly advised to follow basic hygiene practices. Ensuring proper hygiene will help promote a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Transportation
- Driving/Transportation
When visiting Glen Canyon NRA, visitors can access the park by car, RV, or camper van. It is situated in both Utah and Arizona and offers multiple access points from both states, including Lees Ferry in Arizona and Orange Cliffs in Utah. However, visitors should be aware of restrictions on rig sizes, as some areas within the park have limitations on vehicle length and height. It is also important to note that certain sections of the park are accessible only by boat. Glen Canyon NRA features a combination of paved, unpaved, and gravel roads, and there are no driving restrictions in place within the park, allowing visitors to explore freely. Check the specific regulations for each campground and road before entering the park with an RV or camper van to ensure compliance with size restrictions.
- Parking area
RV campers need not be concerned about finding parking spaces in Glen Canyon NRA, as the vast park offers numerous parking options, allowing safe parking while visitors explore. Individual campsites can also accommodate RVs and trailers. Camping with an RV in designated campgrounds is recommended for easy access to recreational activities. Additionally, overnight parking is permitted within the park, providing convenience and ease for visitors exploring the area.
- Public Transportation
Glen Canyon NRA lacks extensive public transportation, such as shuttle buses. However, visitors can access public transportation services in the Page-Wahweap-Antelope Point areas of the park. Additionally, there are walking paths provided for those who wish to explore specific areas on foot.
Campgrounds and parking areas in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Top Campsites in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
- Reservations camping
Wahweap RV & Campground
One of the most sought-after campsites in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. It is located on the shores of Lake Powell near Page, Arizona. Offers a total of 149 sites with complete RV hookups, providing electricity, water, and sewer connections. 112 sites without hookups, 36 sites designated for tents only, and 6 group campsites available, this campground offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding red rock formations.
Amenities include full hookups for RVs, restrooms with showers, picnic tables, and fire rings. There is also a camp store where you can purchase supplies. The campground is pet-friendly, allowing leashed pets. This Campground is typically open year-round, offering stunning vistas in every season. It can accommodate RVs and trailers of various sizes, with a maximum allowed RV length of 40 feet.
Lone Rock Beach Campground
Another popular destination along the shores of Lake Powell, situated in Utah. This primitive campground is ideal for campers who prefer a more rugged experience, as it lacks hookups and designated campsites. However, it compensates with the freedom to camp right on the sandy beach, providing a unique opportunity for beach camping and stargazing. The campground is pet-friendly, allowing leashed pets, and it’s open year-round. The absence of designated sites means it can accommodate RVs and trailers of various sizes, but it’s essential to find a suitable spot that doesn’t disrupt the natural landscape.
Halls Crossing RV & Campground
Located on the northern shore of Lake Powell, accessible by boat or ferry from Bullfrog, Utah. The remote and serene setting attracts campers seeking a more secluded experience. Offers a total of 41 campsites where pets are welcome, and there are 24 convenient pull-through spaces designed to accommodate RVs of up to 60 feet in length. These RV spaces come with complete hookups, providing electricity, water, and sewer connections for a comfortable stay. While the campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, the RV spaces can be reserved in advance to secure your spot.
Amenities include full hookups for RVs, restrooms, a general store, a dump station, potable water supply, and amenities such as charcoal grills and tables for cooking and dining. Moreover, guests have access to hot and cold showers, ensuring a refreshing experience during their stay.
Halls Crossing RV & Campground is typically open from spring to fall, catering to visitors during the warmer months. RVs and trailers of various sizes are permitted, but it’s advisable to make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Bullfrog RV & Campground
Situated in the Bullfrog Basin of Lake Powell, Bullfrog RV & Campground offers stunning views of the water and surrounding canyon walls. Bullfrog RV & Campground has 78 campsites that warmly welcome pets and can accommodate both tents and RVs up to 50 feet in length. Among these sites, 24 offer complete hookup options, providing electricity, water, and sewer connections for added convenience. As for facilities, the campground offers amenities such as showers, restrooms, and charcoal grills with accompanying tables for campers’ use. With a maximum allowed RV length of 50 feet.
The campground provides full hookups for RVs, restrooms with showers, a general store, and nearby dining options. The campground is pet-friendly, allowing leashed pets to accompany campers.
Hite Campground
Hite Campground is located near the northern tip of Lake Powell, offering a peaceful and remote camping experience. Offers a total of 35 campsites that are pet-friendly and cater to both RVs and primitive camping. Within these sites, 14 are equipped with complete RV hookups, providing electricity, water, and sewer connections, while the remaining 21 campsites do not have hookups.
It provides basic amenities, including restrooms, picnic tables, showers, fire rings, and grills. The campground is pet-friendly, and leashed pets are allowed. It’s typically open from spring to fall, catering to visitors during the warmer months.
- First-come first-served
The Lees Ferry Campground
It provides 51 campsites suitable for both RVs and tents, all of which are pet-friendly. Reservations are not accepted, and the sites are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. While there are no RV hookups, visitors can avail themselves of modern bathroom facilities and access to potable water within the campground. Additionally, a boat launch ramp is located within 2 miles of the campground. RVs up to 35 feet in length are allowed at the site.
Beehive Campground
Offers 6 pet-friendly campsites suitable for both RVs and tents. Reservations are not accepted, and the allocation of sites is on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground can accommodate RVs up to 35 feet in length, but no RV hookups are available. Access to the campground is via dirt roads.
Each campsite is equipped with picnic tables, and there are restroom facilities and a dump station provided within the campground. Campers are required to bring portable toilets. Beehive Campground also presents opportunities for wildlife viewing. Visitors can enjoy a stay of up to three days at the campground.
Season-specific experiences in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
- Winter
Rainbow Bridge National Monument
Located in the northeastern part of Lake Powell, this stunning natural bridge is a must-see landmark during the winter. RV campers can access the area from Wahweap or Bullfrog marinas and take a scenic boat tour to view the majestic Rainbow Bridge, one of the world’s largest natural bridges.
Horseshoe Bend
Situated near Page, Arizona, Horseshoe Bend is a famous horseshoe-shaped meander of the Colorado River. It offers incredible views, especially during winter when the golden light illuminates the red rock cliffs. RV campers can park at the nearby parking lot and take a short hike to the overlook.
Birding
During the fall in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, birding becomes a captivating activity as migratory birds pass through the park’s diverse habitats. With 315 documented bird species, including colorful ones, and only 80 confirmed native breeding species, birdwatchers can explore various trails and campsites with fewer crowds, offering excellent photography opportunities. Bringing binoculars and field guides is essential for observing and identifying the avian inhabitants respectfully, which offers a delightful opportunity to observe birds of various colors and sizes as they soar, sing, and thrive throughout the park.
Whether you’re at your campsites, exploring the park’s trails, or venturing into the backcountry sites, you’ll encounter a rich diversity of avian life.
- Fall
Fishing
During the fall in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, fishing becomes a popular and rewarding activity among visitors and RV campers. The cooling water temperatures and active fish make it an excellent time for anglers. Lake Powell offers an exceptional angling experience, as its clear waters teem with a variety of fish species. While protecting endangered fish is a priority in the park, recreational fishing remains a popular pursuit for campers.
Among the fish species available in the park are crappie, largemouth and smallmouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish. While striped bass and walleye can be caught without limitations, there are certain restrictions on the number of other fish species that anglers can catch.
Fishing techniques may vary, and understanding fish behavior can improve success. Anglers must follow fishing regulations and conservation measures to protect the lake’s ecosystem.
Cathedral Wash Trail
This moderate hiking trail, located near Lees Ferry, leads to a beautiful slot canyon with narrow walls and unique rock formations. The fall season offers pleasant temperatures, making it an ideal time to explore this natural wonder.
Boating/Canoeing
Undoubtedly, the most popular activity within Glen Canyon NRA is boating. With approximately two million boaters flocking to Lake Powell, it has become the go-to water-based recreational pursuit in the park. Boating and canoeing offer a serene and picturesque experience on Lake Powell. The pleasant weather reduced crowds, and vibrant autumn colors make it an ideal time to explore the lake’s scenic beauty. Boaters and paddlers can enjoy various water activities, including fishing and wildlife viewing.
Safety precautions, environmental awareness, and the opportunity to discover hidden coves and canyons add to the appeal of boating and canoeing during the fall season.
- Summer
Lake Powell
The summer season is perfect for RV campers to enjoy water-based activities on Lake Powell, a well-known great swimming destination. From swimming and boating to jet skiing and paddleboarding, Lake Powell offers endless opportunities for fun in the sun. it is advisable to swim in designated safe areas within the park. For safety reasons, swimming is not permitted in the boat launch zones and marinas, as these locations pose potential hazards to individuals in the water.
Rainbow Bridge National Monument
The summer months are an ideal time to visit Rainbow Bridge National Monument. RV campers can take boat tours from the marinas to this iconic natural wonder and marvel at its beauty up close.
- Spring
Kayaking
The park provides a range of kayaking opportunities, including whitewater kayaking, downlake kayaking, uplake kayaking, and sea kayaking. These options cater to various interests and durations, from short excursions of a few hours to multi-day adventures, allowing paddlers to choose what suits them best. RV campers can enjoy a boat tour or rent kayaks to get up close to this impressive formation.
Hiking at Escalante Petrified Forest State Park
Located just outside the national recreation area, this state park showcases a fascinating display of petrified wood and offers hiking trails with beautiful vistas. RV campers can explore the unique geological features while enjoying the mild spring weather.