With turquoise waters winding 185-miles through towering multi-hued mesas, Lake Powell is a world-renowned water lover’s paradise. Here, visitors can kick back on a boat, swim, or paddle to their heart’s content. There is no shortage of water activities to enjoy including, kayaking, water skiing, jet skiing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and lazing on the beach, all the while surrounded by a breathtaking natural landscape. More adventure awaits at the nearby Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area where unspoiled red rock formations, plateaus, and canyons are yours to explore. With so many adventures to choose from, you’ll want to know what to pack so you can enjoy your upscale glamping vacation to the fullest.
What to Pack for Summer in Lake Powell-Grand Staircase
Summer is a perfect time to visit Lake Powell when the days are long and sunny. When temperatures soar, hanging out by the lake makes for a refreshing and fun way to beat the heat. Stay cool while you enjoy some R&R around camp at Under Canvas Lake Powell – Grand Staircase or the famed white-sand Lone Rock Beach by wearing lightweight layers to protect your skin from the sun’s rays.
Bathing Suit / Beach Towel / Cover-up
You know you’ll want to take a dip in the desert oasis that is Lake Powell. Be ready to dive right in by having a bathing suit or two, cover-up, and beach towel packed.
T-shirts / Tank Tops
Stay comfy during your outdoor adventures by wearing t-shirts or tank tops. Try to avoid cotton and opt for a lightweight, and light color moisture-wicking material to keep you dry and comfortable.
Lightweight or Zip-off Hiking Pants / Shorts
Lightweight breathable pants or shorts are perfect for hiking the many trails in the area including Hanging Garden, Reflection Canyon, and the Wahweap Overlook for sweeping views of Lake Powell and the Wahweap Marina. You may also want to wear shorts when you’re boating or roaming around camp.
Sun Hat / Baseball Cap
The sun is at its peak intensity in the summertime, so a baseball cap or wide-brimmed hat is key during your adventures.
Recreational Outdoor Shoes
For days spent on the water, sandals or Chaco-like shoes will serve you well when your feet get wet. If you’re looking to explore the surrounding area on foot, hiking shoes or sturdy tennis shoes are recommended for exploring this rocky desert landscape.
Comfortable Outdoor Shoes
Your connection to nature doesn’t stop when you return to your luxury accommodations—kick back and relax at Under Canvas where you can look out over the canyon edge with a view of Lake Powell. Bring comfortable shoes, sandals, or even slippers to wear as you unwind. Sip on coffee or wine with a book in hand from the comfort of your tent’s deck.
Yoga Leggings or Shorts
Find your center with a morning yoga session on your tent deck. No need to bring your mat, we have lululemon mats and blocks for purchase from the gift shop in the lobby. Need yoga attire too? Grab some lululemon garb while you’re there as well.
What to Pack for Spring or Fall in Lake Powell-Grand Staircase
Spring and fall are quieter times to visit Lake Powell. There is typically less boat traffic and great fishing. Our Under Canvas Lake Powell-Grand Staircase camp opens in March and closes at the end of October. The area sees sunshine year-round, but you’ll enjoy cooler days during the spring and fall months. It’s important to pack layers so you can be ready for varying temperatures.
Long Sleeve T-shirts
For chillier days and evenings around camp, you’ll want to be armed with a long sleeve t-shirt. Not only will it keep you warm, but it will also guard your skin against the sun since it is still strong despite cooler temperatures.
Sweatpants / Warm Athletic Pants
Consider packing extra pairs of long pants or warm athletic pants to wear while you are hiking and when roaming around camp at night.
Puffer Jacket / Lightweight Coat / Rain Jacket
Bring an extra warm layer for your spring or fall adventure. A lightweight warm jacket (such as a puffer) is perfect for brisk mornings and evenings. Under Canvas Lake Powell-Grand Staircase is perched on a plateau overlooking Lake Powell offering magnificent views you won’t want to miss so be sure to pack layers so you’ll be comfortable outside.
While Lake Powell does not receive a lot of precipitation (it’s a desert), a lightweight rain jacket or poncho is good to have on hand in case of sudden showers.
Beanie
A warm beanie or hat is nice to have while enjoying locally sourced al fresco dining options, catching up around the campfire, or gazing at the star-studded night sky. Let’s face it, wearing a beanie while roasting a marshmallow over the fire is the picture of a perfect evening under the stars.
Recreational Outdoor Shoes
Hiking boots or tennis shoes are the best choices for footwear when you’re out exploring. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is as scenic as it is rugged and offers countless hiking trails and slot canyons to explore, including one of the world’s longest slot canyons, Buckskin Gulch. Or lace up your boots and explore the on-site Elephant Slot Canyon just steps from your tent.
Comfortable Outdoor Shoes
There’s nothing like slipping on warm, fuzzy boots or cozy slippers back at camp after a day of adventuring or when walking around your tent in the evening.
What to Pack for Lake Powell-Grand Staircase (Non-Clothing)
Daypack / Small Backpack / Beach Bag
Pack a daypack or small backpack with a nutritious camp-prepared lunch, snacks to keep you energized, water, sunscreen, and any extra layers you may need. A beach bag or dry bag will come in handy for your water activities.
Reusable Water Bottle
Whether you’re hiking, biking, or boating, you’ll want to have a reusable water bottle within reach. We have filling stations in our main lobby tent for you to refill ahead of your adventures. If you forget a water bottle, don’t sweat it, buy one from our lobby tent store.
Camera
Between Horseshoe Bend, Rainbow Bridge, and epic Lake Powell views, there will be plenty of photo ops. Connect with nature, create memories, and capture the moment. Tag us on Instagram @undercanvasofficial and Facebook for a chance to be featured.
Phone Charger
Though a stay at Under Canvas means amplifying your connection with the outdoors, we know it’s important to have your phone at the ready at all times. We offer bedside power banks in each tent to keep your devices charged.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen, long layers, and hats during your outdoor adventures in the desert will prevent the dreaded sunburn. Don’t forget to carry a lip balm with an SPF rating of 15 or higher to keep moisturized and protected. Under Canvas carries Sun Bum sunscreen products in our gift shop in the lobby tent for your convenience.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are a must in this desert environment. The year-round sun illuminates the glowing rock landscape and glistening waters of Lake Powell. Enjoy the stunning views but always make sure to protect your eyes!
Many of these items can be bought at the Under Canvas Lake Powell-Grand Staircase lobby tent store. Be sure to stop by and check out our gear during your stay.