Camping in Cataract Canyon
Camping along the Colorado River in the depths of Canyonlands National Park, and Cataract Canyon is one of the most sublime experiences on earth. It must be experienced to understand why that is not an overstatement. There's just something about watching a sunset from the depths, with brilliant red and orange castles, towers and cliffs above you, absorbing the colors of the sun as it drops from the sky. Top that experience off with a night under the stars where the milky way galaxy feels like it's inches from your nose, and surrounding you. Repeat three more times during this expedition, and you can't go home unchanged!
While you experience these transformational events in camp, in your own time and space, you will also enjoy delicious meals shared with new-found friends, and with every need provided by your attentive guides.
Sleeping Bag
Freshly laundered sleeping bags and sheets provide warmth on cool evenings. You'll receive your personal sleeping bag upon arrival to the river.
Comfortable Cots
Cots make sleeping and relaxing on the river easy. You'll lay your sleeping bag on top of the cot and sleep about 12 inches off the ground.
Roomy Tents
Tents are always available and easy to set up. You may be like many of our river guests who prefer to sleep under the vast canopy of stars.
Water-Resistant Bag
Your personal water-resistant bag will protect your duffel bag, sleeping bag and other personal items from exposure to sand and water.
Day-Use Bag
A smaller, personal day-use bag keeps important items handy during the day. This offers a convenient place to store rain gear, sunscreen, medication, etc.
Camp Chairs
Camp chairs offer comfortable seating along the river's edge. Camp chairs are stowed away while on the river and available while in camp.
Ground Cloth
A ground cloth keeps your gear and camping areas clean. This can be placed under your tent or cot at night.
Toilet Facilities
A portable toilet and hand wash system is set up each day in camp in a secluded location that assures privacy.
Toilet Facilities on the River
Western uses a "porta-potty" system that is set up each day in a secluded location that assures privacy. This is essentially a toilet without the fancy plumbing and is available from the time you pull into camp each afternoon until you leave camp the next day. Along with the toilet, a system to wash your hands with fresh water will be available.
Dining on the River
“The food was fantastic! It was amazing how the Western River guides transformed the campsites into a kitchen for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The meals were very well balanced. Dinners were gourmet.”
Kathy, ConnecticutBreakfast
Steaming coffee provides welcome warmth to counter the cool sand between your toes. You might think you're still dreaming when you see plates of steaming flapjacks, fresh fruit and scrambled eggs, but it's the way every morning on the river begins. Western's guides are not only trained river professionals, they're talented campfire cooks as well. And Western always serves fresh food on all river adventures.
Lunch
A wonderful selection of fresh meats and cheeses, delicious breads, along with crisp vegetables and a variety of spreads satisfy hearty lunchtime appetites after a morning in the canyon. Tasty chicken and veggie wraps or perhaps chicken salad pitas may also be part of Western's mid-day buffet. At all times, unlimited quantities of icy lemonade and fresh water are available to quench your thirst.
Dinner
While you enjoy delectable appetizers and relax and at the river's edge, the guides prepare a dinner that is sure to surprise and please. Every night is different, but the menu will likely include grilled chicken breasts, tender steaks, pasta, or fresh fish accompanied by tossed green salad with your choice of dressing, vegetables, and side dishes. Dutch-oven cake and cobblers or other scrumptious desserts deliciously top off the evening meal.
