If you’re thinking about exploring Antelope Canyon and camping nearby without dropping cash at RV parks, you’ll want to know where to boondock safely and legally.
Boondocking near Antelope Canyon is totally doable at several dispersed locations. You can park, kick back, and soak up that epic landscape.
These spots let you wake up right by one of Arizona’s most jaw-dropping natural wonders.
Getting the exact coordinates and understanding local rules will save you a lot of hassle.
This guide covers the top 5 boondocking locations near Antelope Canyon so you can get up close with nature and keep your wallet happy.
Location And Access
You’ll find the main boondocking areas near 36.88246833883852, -111.40123501670026. That’s just outside Page, Arizona, which is basically the front door to Antelope Canyon.
Most routes involve a mix of dirt roads and the occasional paved stretch. Bring a high-clearance vehicle—some of these roads get rough.
You can get to most sites from US Highway 89 or various Bureau of Land Management (BLM) roads. Some are close to Lake Powell and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, so having a map of those areas isn’t a bad idea.
Here’s a quick access checklist:
- Bring a GPS or download offline maps.
- Check road conditions before heading out.
- Stock up on fuel and supplies; services are scarce.
Cell signal? Don’t count on it. Plan for offline navigation or print out directions.
Parking is free, but spots are spread out. Show up early during peak seasons to snag a good one.
Most areas don’t require permits, but double-check local rules just in case.
Directions: How To Get There And What To Expect
Start in Page, Arizona. Head east on US-89 for about 4 miles.
Turn left onto Lone Rock Road, which takes you into the general area.
Plug in the GPS coordinates 36.882468, -111.401235 to get close. The roads can get sandy and bumpy, so if you’ve got a high-clearance vehicle or 4WD, you’re set.
Once you make it, don’t expect much in the way of services. No water, no hookups, no trash pickup.
Bring your own food, water, and fuel. Seriously, don’t skimp.
Cell service is spotty at best. If you need to stay connected, you might want a satellite device.
Days can be hot and nights chilly, so pack clothes for both.
Parking is scattered. Pick a flat, safe spot and set up camp. Leave no trace—take your trash with you.
Here’s a quick checklist for your trip:
| What to Bring | Notes |
|---|---|
| Water | At least 1 gallon per person |
| Food | Non-perishable is easiest |
| Camping gear | Tent, sleeping bags, chairs |
| Extra fuel | For those rough roads |
| Navigation device | GPS or a solid paper map |
Take your time on those unpaved roads. Watch for loose gravel and narrow spots.
Honestly, the drive is half the fun if you’re ready for it.
Amenities And Activities
Don’t expect many amenities at these boondocking spots. There’s no running water, electricity, or restrooms.
You’ll need to bring everything yourself.
You’ll find big open spaces for RVs or tents. Some areas have natural shade from trees or rocks.
A few spots have fire rings, but always check fire rules before lighting up.
Popular activities? Hiking, snapping photos, and watching wildlife. Antelope Canyon’s famous for its rock formations and those crazy light beams.
You can walk around on your own or join a guided tour.
Here’s a quick what-to-bring/what-to-expect rundown:
| Bring | Expect |
|---|---|
| Water and food supplies | Dry camping, no hookups |
| Portable toilet | Little or no cell signal |
| Camping gear | Killer views and natural beauty |
| Firewood (if allowed) | Hiking trails nearby |
Stargazing here is unreal—almost no light pollution.
The canyon is especially peaceful at sunrise or sunset. Just make sure you’ve packed everything you need; it’s remote and super quiet.
Camping Regulations And Restrictions
You’ve got to follow the rules when camping near Antelope Canyon. They’re there to protect the land and keep everyone safe.
Boondocking is only allowed in designated areas. Don’t camp on private property or anywhere marked as restricted.
There’s usually a 14-day stay limit within a 30-day window. After that, you need to move at least 25 miles away.
Fires are often banned or limited. If you’re allowed, use a portable stove or fire ring—never leave a fire unattended.
Pack out all your trash. Leave your site as clean as you found it.
Here’s a quick list of the main rules:
| Rule | Detail |
|---|---|
| Camping duration | Max 14 days per 30-day period |
| Fire rules | Usually banned or restricted |
| Trash | Pack out everything |
| Respect private property | No camping on private or restricted land |
| Quiet hours | Usually at night—keep it down |
You might need a camping permit in some spots. Always check with the local ranger station or land manager.
Leave No Trace
Camping near Antelope Canyon? Protecting the environment should be a top priority.
Take all your trash with you—food wrappers, cans, even the little stuff. Don’t leave anything behind.
Don’t mess with plants or animals. Stick to established roads and areas where people have camped before.
Use a portable toilet if you have one. If not, bury waste at least six inches deep and 200 feet from water. It really does matter for the ecosystem.
Keep fires small and only use designated rings (if they’re allowed at all). If not, stick to a camp stove.
Keep the noise down. Boondocking’s about soaking up the quiet.
Remember:
| Action | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Pack out all trash | Protects animals and plants |
| Stay on established sites | Prevents soil erosion |
| Manage waste properly | Keeps water clean |
| Use small or no fires | Lowers wildfire risk |
| Keep noise low | Respects everyone’s peace |
Your choices help keep Antelope Canyon awesome for the next folks who show up.
Helpful Information Links
Bureau of Land Management
Recreation.Gov
National Park Service
Arizona Park Service
Arizona Trust
Arizona Fish and Game
Chiricahua National Monument Boondocking Locations
Glen Canyon Dam Bridge – Arizona Boondocking
36.935195, -111.477805
Glen Canyon Dam Bridge Boondocking offers a striking desert backdrop with views overlooking Lake Powell and the Colorado River. Located near Page, Arizona, this spot provides free dispersed camping near the iconic Glen Canyon Dam. It’s a convenient option for travelers who want to experience the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area without committing to a developed campground. The open terrain offers level spots for RVs, vans, and tents, though the area has limited shade and no on-site facilities.
Things to Do:
The Glen Canyon area offers excellent sightseeing and photography opportunities, particularly from the nearby Glen Canyon Dam Bridge overlook. Visitors can take short drives to access Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, and Lake Powell. The Carl Hayden Visitor Center is also nearby, providing educational displays about the dam and regional geology. Boaters, hikers, and anglers will find several recreational options in the surrounding public lands.
Directions:
Use GPS coordinates 36.935195, -111.477805 to navigate to the site. The boondocking area is located just off Highway 89, with easy access for all vehicle types.
Vehicle Access:
This location is accessible to all standard vehicles, including RVs and travel trailers. The surface is compacted dirt and gravel. There are no amenities, so campers should be prepared to be fully self-contained. Due to its proximity to Page, this site can fill up quickly during peak tourist seasons. Cell service is generally strong in this area.
Glen Canyon NRA West – Arizona Boondocking
36.994201, -111.60102
Glen Canyon NRA West offers a remote yet scenic boondocking opportunity inside the boundaries of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. The location is west of Page, Arizona, and allows campers to immerse themselves in the quiet desert environment. The area consists of open BLM land with views of mesas, sandstone formations, and desert washes.
Things to Do:
This boondocking site serves as a good base for exploring Glen Canyon NRA and nearby Lake Powell. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, off-roading, stargazing, and photography. Given its remote nature, it also offers an escape from the more crowded areas near the lake. Boat launches at Wahweap and Lone Rock Beach are within driving distance, and the region is also home to lesser-known geological features and slot canyons.
Directions:
Use GPS coordinates 36.994201, -111.60102. Access is typically via dirt roads leading west from Highway 89. Some areas may require higher clearance vehicles depending on road conditions, especially after rain.
Vehicle Access:
This site accommodates RVs, vans, and tents, though access roads can be rough and may become impassable in wet weather. There are no amenities on-site, and campers must pack out all waste. Cell reception is spotty depending on the carrier. It’s advised to check weather and road conditions before heading in.
Boondocking White Pocket Campground
36.954567, -111.893695
White Pocket is one of the more remote and visually unique boondocking destinations in northern Arizona. Located on the Paria Plateau within Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, this site provides direct access to incredible rock formations and landscapes that attract photographers and hikers from across the country. The area features swirled sandstone, colored rock mounds, and formations similar to The Wave—without the permit requirement.
Things to Do:
Visitors to White Pocket can explore the surrounding geological formations on foot. Hiking, nature photography, and stargazing are popular activities here. Because of the isolation, the night sky views are exceptional. The region is also home to desert wildlife and offers peaceful solitude for those willing to make the journey.
Directions:
Use GPS coordinates 36.954567, -111.893695. Reaching White Pocket requires traveling through deep sand and rough roads. A high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle is absolutely necessary. There are no road signs, and GPS service may be unreliable, so paper maps or downloaded directions are recommended.
Vehicle Access:
Access is limited to high-clearance 4WD vehicles. This location is not suitable for large RVs or standard vehicles. There are no amenities, and all campers must be fully self-contained. Because of its remoteness, visitors should carry extra water, food, and emergency supplies. Weather conditions can change quickly and impact access roads.
Badger Creek – Marble Canyon Boondocking
36.77642, -111.659206
Badger Creek offers a secluded and quiet boondocking area just outside of Marble Canyon, Arizona. This location is tucked away on BLM land near the Navajo Bridge and the Colorado River. The terrain is wide open and mostly flat, making it suitable for RVs and tent campers seeking privacy and expansive desert views.
Things to Do:
Nearby attractions include Marble Canyon, Lee’s Ferry, and the Colorado River. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, photography, and fishing. Lee’s Ferry is a well-known starting point for rafting trips into the Grand Canyon. The surrounding Vermilion Cliffs create a striking backdrop for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Directions:
Use GPS coordinates 36.77642, -111.659206. Access is via dirt roads branching off Highway 89A. Roads are generally passable with regular vehicles, but recent weather can impact conditions.
Vehicle Access:
Accessible by cars, vans, and smaller RVs, though large rigs should scout ahead due to narrow sections. The surface is a mix of dirt and gravel. There are no facilities, so campers must bring all needed supplies and be prepared to leave no trace. Cell reception varies, but is generally fair near the highway.
Marble Canyon Overlook – Arizona Boondocking
36.752823, -111.681285
The Marble Canyon Overlook boondocking area offers dramatic views of the canyon and Colorado River. This site is perched along the canyon rim and provides one of the most scenic free camping options in the region. Though primitive, the overlook is a favourite among photographers and campers seeking solitude with a view.
Things to Do:
The overlook offers access to scenic drives, hikes along the rim, and exploration of the Marble Canyon corridor. Visitors can take day trips to Lee’s Ferry, Navajo Bridge, and the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. The area is excellent for sunrise and sunset photography, and the high vantage point provides panoramic views of the river gorge.
Directions:
Use GPS coordinates 36.752823, -111.681285. Access is via a dirt road off Highway 89A. While the road is passable for most vehicles in dry conditions, it can become slick and impassable after rain.
Vehicle Access:
Best for vans, small RVs, and tents. Larger vehicles may find limited turning space near the canyon edge. The site has no amenities and no shade, so campers should be prepared for full self-sufficiency. Campers must practice caution due to the proximity to steep drop-offs and lack of barriers.
Boondocking Vermilion Cliffs – Marble Canyon
36.75014, -111.71654
The boondocking area near Vermilion Cliffs and Marble Canyon offers sweeping views of some of Arizona’s most distinctive desert landscapes. Located along House Rock Valley Road just off U.S. 89A, this dispersed camping site sits in a quiet, remote setting with Vermilion Cliffs towering in the background. The location is part of the larger Vermilion Cliffs National Monument and lies not far from the Paria Plateau and the beginning of the Grand Staircase.
Things to Do:
This spot makes an ideal base for exploring nearby natural attractions such as the Navajo Bridge, Lee’s Ferry, and Marble Canyon. Hikers and off-roaders may also be interested in visiting White Pocket or trying to obtain a permit to hike The Wave. Wildlife viewing is common in this region, especially sightings of California condors, which are being reintroduced to the area. Sunrise and sunset bring vivid colours to the cliffs, making it an excellent location for photography and nature watching.
Directions:
Use GPS coordinates 36.75014, -111.71654. Access is via House Rock Valley Road, a dirt road off Highway 89A between Marble Canyon and Jacob Lake. The road is usually passable for most vehicles when dry but can become impassable after rain. Always check current conditions before setting out.
Vehicle Access:
This boondocking area is suitable for vans, 4WD vehicles, and small to mid-sized RVs. Larger rigs should proceed with caution, especially if weather has recently impacted road conditions. There are no amenities—no water, no toilets, no trash removal—so campers must be fully self-contained. Cell service is limited to non-existent in most areas, so plan accordingly. This is a true off-grid experience surrounded by open desert and towering red rock cliffs.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are plenty of good spots for boondocking near Antelope Canyon, especially if you’re rolling in an RV.
Knowing how to get there, what permits you need, and some safety basics will make your trip smoother.
What are the best boondocking spots near Antelope Canyon for RV travelers?
Check out BLM land near Page, AZ, and the areas around Wahweap and Lees Ferry.
They’ve got flat ground and plenty of room for RVs.
Look for spots with easy access and enough space to park safely.
How do I access free camping areas in the vicinity of Antelope Canyon?
Most free camping is on public lands managed by the BLM.
Use maps or camping apps to find BLM areas near the canyon. Some roads are dirt, so make sure your vehicle can handle it.
Are there any permits or fees required for boondocking near Antelope Canyon?
Most BLM areas don’t require a fee or permit. Some nearby campgrounds or parks might charge for entry or camping.
Double-check local rules before you go.
What are the safety considerations to keep in mind while boondocking near Antelope Canyon?
Watch for sudden weather changes, especially flash floods. It’s desert country, so bring more water than you think you’ll need.
Keep your vehicle locked and watch for wildlife. Emergency services can be far away, so carry a first-aid kit.
Can you recommend any boondocking locations near Antelope Canyon with scenic views?
Sites near Lake Powell and the Colorado River have gorgeous views. Some BLM spots offer sweeping desert and canyon vistas.
Arrive early for the best views—prime spots fill up fast.
What are the regulations or rules for overnight stays in the Antelope Canyon area for boondockers?
Stick to designated spots if you’re staying overnight on public land. Seriously, don’t just park anywhere.
Always follow Leave No Trace—pack out everything you bring in. It’s just good manners.
Most BLM areas let you stay up to 14 days within a 28-day stretch. Don’t mess with the wildlife or plants while you’re there.