If you want to camp near Horseshoe Bend without paying for a campground, you’ll find six solid boondocking spots close to the coordinates 36.88137214978807, -111.51054218876794. These locations offer free, dispersed camping where you can soak in nature and get quick access to one of the Southwest’s most iconic river bends.
These sites let you stay off the grid but keep you right near the jaw-dropping views and trails around Horseshoe Bend. Some are great for tents, others for vans or RVs, and there’s plenty of space to spread out and enjoy a quiet, starry night.
Knowing where to park legally and safely is key, so this list zeroes in on spots open to the public and less likely to get you in trouble. You’ll get the basics on where to go, what to expect, and how to get there without a headache.
Location And Access
The six Horseshoe Bend boondocking spots sit close to the famous overlook. The coordinates 36.88137214978807, -111.51054218876794 point you right to the general area.
You’ll get there from Highway 89, just south of Page, Arizona. Turn onto Cottonwood Canyon Road, a dirt road that leads toward the camping spots, but heads up—it can get pretty rough in places.
A high-clearance vehicle makes life easier, especially if it’s rained recently. The road is mostly flat but has ruts and loose gravel here and there.
Drive slow, and expect limited cell service. These are off-grid sites, so bring water, food, and anything else you might need. The closest gas and supplies are in Page, about 10 miles away.
Access Details:
| Highway | Road Name | Distance from Page | Road Type | Vehicle Suggestion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hwy 89 | Cottonwood Canyon Rd | 6 miles | Dirt & Gravel | High-clearance advised |
The campsites are spread out, which means you’ll get a bit of privacy. You can walk between some of them if you’re feeling curious. Just remember to leave no trace and treat the land with respect.
Directions: How To Get There And What To Expect
Start in Page, Arizona. Head south on US-89 for about 5 miles.
Watch for dirt roads near GPS coordinates 36.881372, -111.510542. The roads can get rough and dusty, so a high-clearance or 4×4 vehicle is your best bet.
Drive slow and look out for potholes or loose gravel. Some sites need a little light off-road driving.
Don’t expect services out here. There’s no water, power, or trash pickup, so bring what you need and pack out all your garbage.
You’ll park in open desert with solid views. Some sites offer privacy with rocks or bushes. Most of the ground is flat, but keep an eye out for dips.
Cell service comes and goes. Plan for a digital detox. The night sky out here is something else—perfect for stargazing.
| Step | Directions |
|---|---|
| 1. Start | From Page, AZ, drive south on US-89 |
| 2. Distance | About 5 miles |
| 3. Turn | Look for dirt road near GPS 36.881372, -111.510542 |
| 4. Vehicle | High-clearance or 4×4 recommended |
| 5. Services | None—bring all supplies |
Get ready for a quiet, rustic camping experience.
Amenities And Activities
At these Horseshoe Bend boondocking spots, you’re not getting much in the way of amenities. There’s no running water, no electricity, and no restrooms. Bring your own supplies and plan to pack out all your trash.
You’ll get quiet camping and big, clear skies at night. Photographers love this area, especially at sunrise and sunset when the canyon glows.
Nearby, you can:
- Hike to the Horseshoe Bend overlook (about 1.5 miles round trip)
- Watch birds and spot wildlife
- Explore the Colorado River by kayak or boat if you’ve got the gear
Definitely bring plenty of water, food, and sun protection. Cell service is iffy, so don’t count on it.
Parking is just open dirt, which can be tricky for big RVs or trailers. You might have to walk a little to find the best spot.
Camping Regulations And Restrictions
You’ve got to camp only in designated areas to protect the land. Don’t set up outside these spots—plants and wildlife need their space.
Campfires are usually not allowed, or there are strict rules. Always check for fire bans before lighting up. If fires are off-limits, use a camp stove.
Take all your trash with you. Seriously, pack out every scrap.
You can stay for up to 14 days in a 28-day period. This keeps the area open for everyone.
Generators might have restrictions. Usually, you can run them only between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. so you don’t ruin the peace for others.
Don’t dig, move rocks, or mess with plants. Keep the place looking natural.
Pets are welcome, but keep them under control and clean up after them.
Follow all posted signs and local rules. If you don’t, you could get fined or asked to leave.
Leave No Trace
When you camp at Horseshoe Bend, protecting the natural beauty is a must. Always follow Leave No Trace principles.
Pack out all your trash, even tiny stuff like bottle caps or cigarette butts. Don’t bury or burn waste.
If fires are allowed, use existing fire rings. Never cut live trees or plants for firewood. Keep fires small and make sure they’re out before you leave.
Stick to established roads and parking areas to avoid wrecking the soil or plants. Don’t create new campsites.
Respect wildlife and watch from a distance. Don’t feed animals—it messes with their health and habits.
Here’s a quick checklist for Leave No Trace at Horseshoe Bend:
| What to Do | What to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Pack out all trash | Leaving trash behind |
| Use existing fire rings | Cutting live trees |
| Stay on roads and sites | Creating new campsites |
| Respect wildlife | Feeding wild animals |
If everyone does their part, Horseshoe Bend stays wild and beautiful for the next visitors.
Helpful Information Links
Bureau of Land Management
Recreation.Gov
National Park Service
Arizona Park Service
Arizona Trust
Arizona Fish and Game
Horseshoe Bend Arizona 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
You’ll find a handful of boondocking sites for RVs near Horseshoe Bend. Some spots are totally free with awesome views, but don’t expect frills. Rules and access can vary, so it pays to know the basics.
What are the top boondocking sites near Horseshoe Bend for RVs?
Bluff Landing and Page Creek usually top the list for RV boondocking near Horseshoe Bend. These spots have space for big rigs and easy road access. You’ll get wide-open parking and great scenery.
Are there any free camping locations close to Horseshoe Bend with scenic views?
Yep, there are free options like the dispersed camping areas around Vermilion Cliffs. You’ll get natural views and zero fees. Just remember, it’s primitive—no water or hookups.
How do I access dispersed camping areas around the Horseshoe Bend region?
Most of these spots are off unpaved or gravel roads. Bring a vehicle that can handle rough patches. Check local maps and steer clear of closed areas to make sure you’re camping legally.
What are the regulations for boondocking in the Horseshoe Bend vicinity?
You’ve got to follow Bureau of Land Management (BLM) rules. Camping is usually limited to 14 days within 28 days at any one spot. Permanent structures aren’t allowed, and you need to pack out all your trash.
Can you recommend boondocking spots with amenities near Horseshoe Bend?
A few spots near Lake Powell, like Wahweap Overlook, have restrooms and picnic tables. They’re not fully-serviced campgrounds, but the little comforts can make camping a bit easier.
What safety considerations should I keep in mind while camping off-grid near Horseshoe Bend?
Bring enough water and food. Services are pretty scarce out there, so don’t count on finding supplies nearby.
Keep an eye on the weather—it can change fast and catch you off guard. Wildlife is around, so stay alert.
Make sure your vehicle’s in good shape before you head out. It’s smart to carry a first aid kit and some kind of communication device, just in case.