Lone Rock is one of the most iconic places on Lake Powell, and it has one of the best beaches. It’s a great place to swim, boat, kayak, ride ATVs, camp, or just sit and relax by the water. In recent years, Lake Powell’s water levels have been lower than usual, which has restricted some activities and created others.
Kayaking & Paddle Boarding
I highly recommend kayaking or paddleboarding around Lone Rock. If you don’t have a kayak or paddleboard, rentals are available in Page, Arizona.
Paddling around Lone Rock is about a mile in distance and very straightforward. In addition to the giant rock, Lone Rock Canyon is on the other side of the rock, and it is also a nice place to explore. The canyon has a few forks and side canyons in it that are worth seeing, and the farther back you go, the more narrow the walls become. Most boats can’t fit in the canyon, so it’s a nice, secluded place to paddle around.
You can kayak any time of day or year, but I recommend going in the morning when the lake is at its glassiest, or in the evening when the winds die down. Winds typically pick up in the afternoons in the area.
Boating in Lone Rock Bay
When the water is high, it’s fun to boat around Lone Rock. The bay is a great area to ski or surf because the water is usually a bit calmer than other areas. It’s also fun to pull up to Lone Rock Beach and stretch your legs or have lunch.
ATVS
Lone Rock Beach is very sandy, and it’s a fun place to ride. There are also trails above the sand that overlook Lake Powell.
I have heard that a permit system is in development for the area, so you will want to check with park service before planning a ride. However, if riding is unavailable at Lone Rock, there are many other great riding areas in the area. One of my favorites is the Moon.
Camping at Lone Rock
The Lone Rock Beach Campground is a large primitive campsite. There are no designated camping spots, but bathrooms are available. Potable water is also available. The beach is a popular camping spot, especially on holidays and weekends, but it’s always fun.
If you are traveling by boat, Lone Rock Beach is approximately 8 miles from Wahweap Marina. Many boats will camp along the shore. You can also dock your boat on shore near your camping site and leave your boat at your camp.
If you are in a large RV or a car without 4-wheel drive, be very cautious of the sand. If you follow the solid road areas, you should be fine, but the sand gets deep, and I have seen a lot of people get stuck.
No reservations are needed to camp, but a fee is charged upon entrance. For current prices, see the National Parks Services Page for camping in Glen Canyon.
Hikes
There aren’t any official trials at Lone Rock. The best hiking areas are in Lone Rock Canyon, which is across the lake. To explore the canyon, you need to take a kayak (or something similar: paddleboard, raft, canoe) to the other side of the lake. From there, you can paddle into the narrow canyons and explore. There is no specific path; just tie up your boat and start hiking around. The rocks in the area are awesome, and the water is usually nice and clear.
Lone Rock Beach is also a great place to wander around. If you walk to the far end, you are likely to see much fewer people because the road gets so sandy that not many vehicles can make it.
There have been low-water years where you could actually hike to Lone Rock. If the area is muddy or wet, you don’t want to attempt to drive near the rock, and the mud will ruin your hiking shoes. On the rare occasion that there is a dry path, the hike to and around Lone Rock is awesome. Looking up at the rock from its base is stunning. The hike is probably a mile round trip and fairly easy as long as it’s dry.
Directions to Lone Rock Beach
Lone Rock Beach Campground is located on Utah Highway 89, 2 miles south of Big Water, UT, and 12 miles north of Page, AZ.
If you’re coming from UT, look for signs to Lone Rock Beach on the left-hand side of the road right after Big Water.
If you’re coming from Page, drive approximately 12 miles past the Glen Canyon Dam and look for signs on the right. You will turn right after passing the Greenhaven gas station.
Snow Ski or Water Ski–Lone Rock has it All!
More Places to Explore on Lake Powell
Lake Powell is a huge body of water, and there is a lot to explore! After visiting Lone Rock, I highly recommend checking out some other locations. Here are a few nearby areas you don’t want to miss!
- Antelope Canyon
- Antelope Point Marina
- Labyrinth Canyon
- Navajo Canyon
- Rainbow Bridge
- Wahweap Marina
Leave It Better Than You Found It
Remember to respect nature and follow ethical practices when engaging in outdoor activities. Always leave a place better than you found it, and practice the principles of Leave No Trace. Enjoy your time exploring the area!