Outdoor enthusiasts across the United States can celebrate the anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) on August 4, with free entry to national parks, including Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. While entrance fees are waived, other fees such as those for camping, tours, and concessions will still apply.
The GAOA, passed in 2020, represents an investment in the nation’s natural heritage. It established the National Parks and Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund and secured permanent funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund.
Glen Canyon visitors will benefit from upgrades in the coming years, particularly in the Wahweap and Lone Rock areas. GAOA funding will support the rehabilitation of water and wastewater systems in these popular destinations, ensuring essential utilities remain in condition for decades to come.
As visitors plan their trips to Glen Canyon or other national parks for the August 4 celebration, outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to utilize the free NPS App. This tool offers interactive maps, tour information, and accessibility details.
Safety remains a top priority for park officials. Visitors are advised to check current park alerts and review safety guidelines before their trip.
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, spanning over 1.25 million acres, offers outdoor opportunities for water-based and backcountry recreation. The area extends for hundreds of miles from Lees Ferry in Arizona to the Orange Cliffs of southern Utah, featuring vistas, and geological wonders. Visitors can also explore a variety of recreational activities.
The recreation area charges $30 per week for passenger vehicles and an expanded amenity fee for motorized vessels. Additionally, the park enforces strict regulations to protect wildlife and preserve the environment, such as storing food and garbage in wildlife-resistant containers and adhering to quiet hours from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Camping options within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area cater to a variety of preferences. Lees Ferry Campground offers 54 designated sites at $20 per night, with grills and modern bathroom facilities, but no hookups. Additionally, Lone Rock Beach Primitive Camping Area provides a more rugged experience with sandy beach or dune camping at $14 per vehicle per night, featuring amenities like vault toilets and an outdoor cold shower.
Stanton Creek and Beehives Campgrounds feature primitive and basic camping facilities, with designated and non-designated sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
