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Glen Canyon/Lees Ferry
Overview
Located at the base of the dramatic Vermilion Cliffs, Glen Canyon/Lees Ferry offers a unique high-desert camping experience for those seeking natural splendor. This National Park Service facility serves as the official gateway to the Grand Canyon for river rafters and is a legendary destination for fly fishing enthusiasts. It provides a quiet, primitive environment focused on raw beauty and direct river access, making it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in Marble Canyon, AZ, the campground sits directly along the banks of the mighty Colorado River. The surrounding landscape is defined by towering red sandstone walls and the stark beauty of the Arizona desert. It is positioned roughly 42 miles north of the Grand Canyon’s North Rim and is the only place in hundreds of miles where visitors can drive to the river's edge, offering unparalleled canyon views.
Amenities & Park Features
As a primitive camping destination, the park offers 54 individual sites on a first-come, first-served basis. While there are no electrical or water hookups at the individual pads, guests have access to modern restrooms with flush toilets and potable water. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a grill, providing the essentials for a comfortable, self-contained RV stay. Key features include:
- Access to a potable water station and a convenient dump station for RVers.
- Proximity to the Lees Ferry boat launch for easy river access.
- Large, well-spaced sites that accommodate various rig sizes.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The area is world-renowned for its blue-ribbon trout fishing and serves as the primary launch point for Grand Canyon rafting expeditions. Visitors can explore the historic Lonely Dell Ranch, walk across the historic Navajo Bridge for stunning views of the river, or hike the challenging Spencer Trail. The proximity to the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument offers endless opportunities for photography and exploring unique geological formations that define this region.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for self-contained RVers who appreciate a quiet, rustic atmosphere over luxury resort amenities. It is a perfect fit for outdoor adventurers, trout anglers, and landscape photographers who want to be fully immersed in the high desert wilderness. Those seeking to experience the authentic Colorado River environment away from the crowds of major tourist hubs will find this remote location deeply rewarding.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Wayne R. Little
A unbelievable sight to see. The marble waves to crossing the bridges the elevation is 3,573 feet. Breathtaking landscape and cliffs canyons and rivers adventures. Located in the Rocky Mountains Marble Canyon.
Advantage Consulting (Dustin Kearl)
I have been to Lees Ferry and it was an incredible place to explore. The area sits right on the edge of the Colorado River and offers a quiet, scenic stretch that feels peaceful and wide open. It’s a great spot to walk along the river, explore the historic ferry site, and enjoy the views of the red rock cliffs all around. One of the most memorable parts of the visit was spotting California condors from the bridge. We looked up and saw these massive birds soaring overhead and even perched near the cliff walls. If you’re patient and bring binoculars, there’s a good chance you’ll catch a glimpse of one. It’s not something you see every day and made the stop even more special. The bridge itself offers a great overlook of the river and canyon, and it’s a nice walk with plenty of opportunities for pictures. Whether you’re just passing through or planning to launch a rafting trip down the Grand Canyon, Lees Ferry is worth the stop. I would definitely go back again. Between the river, the history, and the wildlife, it’s a peaceful and unforgettable place to visit.
Rosalynne Love
Excellent spot! We came here initially to get some water, and was surprised it wasn’t just potable water but drinking water! We then ended up hanging out and letting the kids play in the river. We stumbled across two different groups getting ready to take off for a 14 day river floating down the Colorado River (future bucket list item unlocked!). We did the river trail, which was short and relatively flat (so great for the kids) and had lots of signs to learn more about the local history. Definitely interesting learning about mining and I forget the gentlemen who pioneered the area but he had lots of inventions to try and harvest gold! Overall, would totally recommend - it’s beautiful!
HRO
Did you know that this spot is where the Grande Canyon begins?! There is a sign that states it. It’s a beautiful drive down. Several places to stop. Navajo bridge is wonderful. Balanced rocks. The Cathedral rock, but a Navajo lady told me they called it the church. Not much to see at the Ferry crossing but its history. The boat ramp is very busy as there are few boat ramps left due to water levels. Several rafting companies use it after departing from the dam 15 miles away. Pit toilets. Camp ground for under 30’ rigs. No hookups but pit toilets. Potable water down at the ramp and I believe there is an Rv dump as well. It’s a long way down and around into Glen Canyon on the way to Vermillion Cliffs. There is a great beach a few hundred yards away. Very swimable and dogs welcome. It’s very pretty and it it appears you can fish there also.
Amanda Cowder
Absolutely amazing views and access to the Colorado River made the trip so fun for our big guy! Also the campsites were pretty quiet and very clean. Would definitely return here for sure!
Denise L.
Well worth a visit. It was quiet and peaceful when we stopped by. It was fun wading in the Colorado river and the river was cold and clear. There are a lot of neat rock formations in the area and lots of great photographic opportunities.
Jennifer Huang (亭楨)
Lees Ferry is a place that truly takes your breath away. The area is vast and stunning, with jaw-dropping scenery all around. Sunset is the most magical time — golden light glowing on the red cliffs and the Colorado River is pure beauty. It’s incredibly peaceful, perfect for a quiet walk, some photos, or simply soaking it all in. Along the River Trail, you’ll spot the iconic balanced rock and get up close to the majestic Colorado River. No photo can fully capture how it feels to stand here in person.
Shari Smith
There is a fee to get into the National Park. The boat ramp is very large for several vehicles & trailers. The campground is very open, has several pull-thru sites. Clean, modern bathrooms. No shower, No water or electrical hook up. You can swim in the river. You can visit the Lonely Dell Ranch.
Suzanne Jones
Nice piece of history right on the banks f the Colorado River. There are buildings, beautiful cliffs and an old homestead. Bring lots of water!
ROBBIE ALLEN
The ranch was interesting. Vehicle access was overly restricted. We have a lifetime pass but the keosk was very confusing and we paid another unnecessary $30.00. Ranch needed more parking. narratives around the crossing were vague and non descriptive. Were more for the tree huggers than historians.