Nestled within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Lees Ferry Campground is a scenic, primitive campground located on a bluff overlooking the Colorado River, just 1.5 miles from the historic Lees Ferry boat launch in Marble Canyon, Arizona. Situated about 42 miles from Page, AZ, and 125 miles north of Flagstaff, this first-come, first-served campground offers 54 designated campsites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs up to 30 feet, with no hookups available. Each site features a picnic table, fire ring with grate, and many include shade structures to provide relief from the desert sun, as there is no natural shade. The campground, open year-round, charges $26 per site per night (as of January 2025), with a discounted rate of $13 for holders of the America the Beautiful Senior or Access Pass.
Amenities include clean flush toilets, potable water spigots (though occasionally turned off during cooler months), and an RV dump station located about 0.75 miles away. There are no showers, but coin-operated showers are available at Marble Canyon Lodge, approximately 5 miles away. Grills are provided, but open ground fires are prohibited outside of grates, and quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM. A gas station, store, and post office are conveniently located in Marble Canyon, just 5 miles from the campground. The sites are slightly unlevel, and tent campers are advised to bring extra stakes or ropes due to frequent windy conditions, especially in the afternoons.
The campground’s prime location offers stunning views of the Colorado River, Vermilion Cliffs, and surrounding red-orange rock formations, making it a haven for stargazing and photography, particularly at night under clear desert skies. Its proximity to the river allows easy access to fly fishing (license required), hiking, and boating activities, with the Lees Ferry boat ramp serving as the starting point for Grand Canyon rafting trips. Nearby trails, such as the River Trail, Paria Riffles, and Cathedral Wash, offer opportunities to explore the area’s geology and spot wildlife like bighorn sheep. The historic Lees Ferry crossing, used from 1872 to 1928, and remnants like the Old Mormon Fort are within walking distance, adding a layer of historical intrigue.
Ideal for adventurers seeking a no-frills camping experience, Lees Ferry Campground is a gateway to the slot canyons, desert ridges, and waters of Lake Powell. Its serene atmosphere and million-dollar views make it a favorite, though arriving early is recommended to secure a spot, especially during peak spring and fall seasons when the weather is most favorable.