How to Camp at Lone Rock Beach – Lake Powell, Utah
If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind camping spot during your Southwest road trip, let me introduce you to Lone Rock Beach Primitive Camping Area at Lake Powell.
Located just over the Utah border, this primitive camping area is a gem if you’re for road tripping and need a place to spend the night, if you love to camp under the stars, or if you just want a stunning view on a budget.
The area is popular for its laid-back atmosphere and accessibility. You can spend the day swimming, kayaking, or stand-up paddle boarding, and then cozy up by a campfire to watch the sunset paint the desert sky.
Whether you camp in the dunes, on the overlook, or down by the beach, the views are nothing short of incredible. I can confidently say this is one of the most unique places we’ve ever spent the night.
Here’s everything you need to know before you go!
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View of Lone Rock, a massive red rock formation that sits prominently in the water.
Where is Lone Rock Beach Camping Area?
Lone Rock Beach is part of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, located along the shores of Lake Powell’s Wahweap Bay. It’s right off Highway 89, just after you cross into Utah if you’re driving from Arizona.
If you’re road tripping west, it’s an convenient place to sleep on the way to Zion or Bryce Canyon National Park.
Quick Drive Times:
Here are some driving distances from major cities in Arizona to help you plan your trip:
- From Page, AZ: 20 minutes
- From Flagstaff, AZ: 2.5 hours
- From Phoenix, AZ: approximately 4.5 hours
How to Pick a Campsite
Lone Rock Beach is a primitive campground and accommodates RVs, campervans, pickup campers, and tents.
There are no designated campsites and no reservations. The campground is entirely first-come, first-served, and the whole area is open for camping. There are a maximum of 8 people and 2 vehicles per site.
There are no designated campsites here. You can park and set up anywhere on the dunes, on the overlook, or down near the beach (depending on vehicle clearance).
No matter where you choose to set up camp, you’ll have an epic view of the lake and Lone Rock. You honestly can’t pick a bad site here.
Keep reading for more information on how to choose a campsite and what type of vehicle you’ll need to access different areas of the campground.
Camping on the Beach
If you have a 4WD vehicle and feel confident driving in deep sand, you can park and camp close to the beach. However, be careful because we saw a campervan get stuck and need a tow (which took a long time!), so only attempt this if you know for sure that your vehicle can handle it.
Campers lined up by the beach
There are signs marking restricted areas, and as of our visit, motorized vehicles were not allowed directly at the water’s edge. If you want to camp close to the lake, you’ll need to park nearby and walk your gear in.
Campers along the waters edge
Camping Above the Beach
If you don’t have 4WD, you can find plenty of fantastic spots along the overlook above the beach. The sand here is less deep and well worn down, so you don’t have to worry too much about getting stuck if you stick to the main roads. From here, it’s just a short walk to the water.
We opted for a spot in the dunes near the overlook (where these photos were taken), which gave us easy access to the beach while avoiding the stress of driving through deep sand.
Campsite in the dunes above the beach
Camping for Large RVs
If you have a large RV that won’t make it down to the sand, you can park in the a large concrete parking lot just past the toll booth, on the left. We saw a lot of large motorhomes parked here for the night. It’s far from the water, but convenient if you just need somewhere to park.
Camping Details You Should Know
Here’s everything you should know about the campsite layout, available facilities, and how much it costs to camp at Lone Rock Beach Campground.
Cost to Camp at Lone Rock Beach Primitive Camping Area
- Camping fee: $14/night, payable at the self-serve kiosk.
- Recreation fee: $30/vehicle. This fee is in addition to the camping fee and gives you day access to the entire Glen Canyon Recreation Area. You don’t have to pay this fee if you have an America the Beautiful Pass (highly recommended investing in one of these passes if you visit more than 3 national parks per year).
Facilities
Lone Rock Beach Campground is open all year, but some facilities might be closed in the winter.
- Restrooms: 4 micro flush toilets and vault toilets are available at various locations at the campground.
- Drinking water: Potable water is available seasonally, otherwise you have to bring your own.
- Fires: Allowed (check local fire restrictions).
- Showers and dumpsters: Outdoor cold showers area at the entrance to the dunes.
What to Do at Lone Rock Beach at Lake Powell
Despite feeling very remote and secluded, there’s still a lot to do at Lone Rock Beach Campground and many popular destinations just a short drive away. Here are the best things to do and see while you’re in the area!
Watch the Sunset
This is a beautiful spot to watch the sunset. In my opinion, it was a lot nicer than sunrise because the colors reflecting off the water and Lone Rock itself are unreal. We arrived just in time for golden hour, and it was one of the most memorable moments of our trip.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Bring a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to paddle out on Lake Powell. We woke up at sunrise to see a few early risers paddling across the calm lake. Next time, we’re definitely bringing gear to join them!
Stargazing
If you love astrophotography or star gazing, the stars here are incredible – especially on a crisp, clear night. With minimal light pollution, Lone Rock Beach is perfect for catching a glimpse of the Milky Way or a shooting star.
Nearby Attractions
Extend your trip by visiting some of these iconic spots near Lone Rock Beach Campground:
- Antelope Canyon: Just a short drive away, this world-famous slot canyon is famous for its sandstone formations and light beams. Book a guided tour in advance because they sell out fast.
. - Horseshoe Bend: This is of the most photographed landmarks in the area and gives you jaw-dropping view of the Colorado River. It’s an easy hike to the viewpoint, and $10 entrance fee is absolutely worth it, especially at sunrise or sunset!
. - Glen Canyon National Recreation Area: Lone Rock is in the heart of Glen Canyon Recreation Area, which gives you access to epic hiking trails like Coyote Gulch, Cathedral in the Desert (reachable by boat tour), float tours down the Colorado River, and the historic Lees Ferry and Hole-in-the-Rock Road.
Stargazing at Lone Rock Beach, Utah
Tips for Camping at Lone Rock Beach Campground
- Bring your essentials: This is primitive camping, so pack everything you’ll need – water, food, and camping gear.
- Stay off the side roads: The main gravel road leading down to the overlook is well-maintained, but some side paths to the beach are deep sand. Unless you have 4WD, stick to the main route or risk getting stuck.
- Pack out your trash: There are dumpsters nearby, but it’s always good to leave the area as beautiful as you found it.
- Plan to be off grid: There’s no cell reception or WiFi here, so plan accordingly
Sunset at Lone Rock Beach
Final Thoughts
Lone Rock Beach Campground is a budget-friendly, bucket-list campsite for anyone road-tripping through the Southwest. Between the incredible views, easy beach access, and unique camping setup, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the beauty of Lake Powell.
If you’re planning a trip, make sure to carve out time for this spot (even if it’s just for one night). And don’t forget to bring your camera because this place is stunning from every angle.
Ready to explore more? Check out my Las Vegas to Sedona Road Trip Itinerary for more must-see stops in the area, including Antelope Canyon and Zion National Park!
Did you find this guide to Lone Rock Beach Campground helpful? Let me know in the comments!
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