Beach Camping on Lake Powell
Affordable and Fun, Privacy Ashore Makes a Perfect Vacation
Jul 19, 2009
In today’s rugged economy, many families are deciding that a vacation is a luxury and is no longer something the family budget can accommodate. The “staycation” has become a catchy phrase in this economic downturn, denoting that one is going to “stay home” or at least stay in one’s immediate geographic area for their annual vacation.
Ironically, for Arizona, Nevada, and Utah residents, one of the best vacations to be had is far cheaper than many realize. Although Lake Powell’s history is subject to controversy and intense (and justifiable) criticism, the fact is that the damage to Glen Canyon has been done by filling this spectacular network of canyons with water, and it’s not going to revert to its former condition – ever. But what a lake! Located between Arizona and Utah, Lake Powell has marinas in both states that one can access to launch a boat and securely park for an extended duration.
Beach Camping on Lake Powell
Most people envision a trip to Lake Powell as one where renting an expensive houseboat is an inevitable fact of the vacation, but this need not be so. Nor is it necessary to own a motorhome or camper and have to squeeze into a spot at the lower end of this gargantuan lake.
The only requirement for a grand vacation at Lake Powell, is that one have a boat, and it need not be a boat that has accommodations for sleeping and cooking either. Rudimentary camping gear will work just fine!
Lake Powell offers some of the finest and most private beach camping imaginable. While many of the canyons that line the lake have towering cliffs and are entirely inaccessible, there are a multitude of areas that offer low, flat spots that are perfect for private beach camping.
The fact is, the further one is from the main campsite area in Waheap, the less crowded this lake becomes. Within a few miles of Antelope Marina, where one can launch a boat and pay a modest fee ($31.00 for a week) two canyons in particular offer spectacular camping opportunities: West Canyon and Face Canyon.
Camping Essentials for a Lake Powell Trip
Sleeping ashore at this lake is unique. For one thing, it’s utterly safe from animal predators. A tent is certainly desirable, but not required. The small tent cots sold by Cabela’s make perfect sleeping quarters. Each cot has a domed cover complete with bug resistant netting covering each of the four zippered openings. Should it rain, there’s even a waterproof cover. Because of evening gnats, occasional mosquitoes, and possible snake sightings, it isn’t advisable to sleep without some protection.
A Coleman Stove, barbecue, or something of this kind is needed for cooking, and it is required to have some type of sanitary holding system. These are not expensive, and there are places on the lake where one can dispose of, or empty, these items.
Take whatever camping gear one likes, but absolutely be sure to include some kind of shade, sunscreen, and plenty of water. The temperatures at Lake Powell are cooler than the temperatures in the Phoenix area, but it is not uncommon for the thermometer to hover around 100 degrees. There is little to no shade available on the lake. Ice and a few amenities are available at Antelope Marina and Dangling Rope Marina.
Historic Sites and Geographic Formations at Lake Powell
There are many interesting sites to see while at the lake, including Rainbow Bridge National Monument, accessible by boat. The canyons themselves are spectacular and awe-inspiring. A camera is a necessity here.
Beach camping on Lake Powell is an unforgettable experience, and one that won’t break the family bank account either.
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