Camping at Lake Powell

Even though houseboats have perfectly comfortable beds most groups set up some level of camp on one of Lake Powell's many beaches. You can make a picnic area, pitch tents or just use the beach as a place to lounge in the sun while some of your party takes the houseboat elsewhere. Most of the easiest beaches to reach are along the main channel, though there are some in the side canyons.

There are no fees or reservations needed for any of the undeveloped areas but there are some National Park Service rules you will need to observe.

• All campsites must have a portable toilet. Your houseboat takes care of this requirement but keep it in mind when the boat isn't available.
• Pets are allowed, but you need to clean up after them and burying is not allowed.
• Motor vehicles, ORV's and bicycles are not allowed on roadless areas.
• Fires must be wood only and can only be set below the high water line (the bathtub ring). They also cannot be larger than 4 feet wide and 4 feet high.
• Remnants of fires must be disposed of at a marina.
• Fireworks of any kind are illegal anywhere in the area.

Though not NPS rules, there are some additional recommendations to make your trip safer.

• Anchor multiple houseboats at least 100 feet apart. Their engines can build up carbon monoxide that gets trapped between the boats if they are too close to each other.
• Tie up personal watercraft and powerboats separately from the houseboat. Attaching them to the houseboat's anchor can shake it loose.
• Don't camp or park a boat under overhangs, the rocks around Lake Powell can break apart in a storm.
• Firewood is scarce around the lake, but the marinas sell plenty of it, as well as other camping supplies you might need.