Map showing campground location near Grand Canyon, Arizona

Camper submitted image from Hermit Rapids

Hermit Rapids

Grand Canyon National Park manages Hermit Rapids, a primitive campsite accessible only by hiking the Hermit Trail or rafting the Colorado River. The National Park Service requires reservations and advises against attempting the hike as a day trip due to the steep 4,000-foot descent and potential for extreme midday temperatures.

Campers must carry 2-4 liters of water since no water sources exist until reaching the Colorado River at the bottom. The rocky trail includes rough dirt and stone steps, making trekking poles highly recommended for the demanding descent. At the riverside site, visitors pitch tents on clear areas along the beach and may observe rafters navigating the rapids. Those seeking additional backcountry options can explore tent campgrounds around Grand Canyon National Park. Exercise caution near the fast-moving water and follow Leave No Trace principles.

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Location

Public Campground

Hermit Rapids is located in Arizona

Coordinates

36.09972102 N
112.21008682 W

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Access

Hike-In
Backcountry sites.
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Sites accessible by watercraft.

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General Info

Drive Time

1 hr 54 min from Flagstaff, AZ
2 hrs 38 min from Prescott Valley, AZ
4 hrs from Lake Havasu City, AZ
5 hrs 1 min from St. George, UT

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Troy W.

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Reviewed Aug. 1, 2021

Hermit Rapids Primitive Campsite

There are only two ways to get to the Hermit Rapids Primitive Campsite - hike a trail or ride a raft. This campsite may be reserved through the National Park System (NPS). The NPS recommends that one not attempt to hike from the trailhead to this area and back as a day hike due to the steepness and potential mid-day temperature. You may see rafters passing through the rapids. Our group hiked from the Grand Canyon South Rim starting at the Hermit Trail trailhead, down the Hermit Trail, to the Hermit Rapids area. The descent is about 4000+ feet. The descent can be pounding on one's legs, so trekking poles are highly recommended.

The decent down requires hiking down a rocky trail with some rough dirt and stone steps. Along the way, you'll see steep canyon walls, desert flora and amazing panoramic views of the Grand Canyon. There are no real facilities at this site, the beauty of this site is that it is rustic with great views and there will likely be no one else around. There is no water available until you reach the bottom of the canyon and the Colorado River so be sure to start your hike with 2 to 4 liters of water. It is possible to take a detour to collect water near the Monument Creek campsite.

The site is a primitive campsite so you find a clear area along the beach and pitch your tent. Leave No Trace principles should be applied. The water and rapids are fast, so exercise caution if you enter the river.

SitePrimitive

Month of VisitMay

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Frequently Asked Questions

What facilities are available at Hermit Rapids Campground?

Hermit Rapids Campground offers very basic facilities consistent with its designation as a primitive campsite. As a backcountry site within the Grand Canyon, visitors should expect minimal amenities and should come prepared for self-sufficient camping. The site provides access to the Colorado River for water (which must be filtered or treated). There are no developed facilities such as running water, electricity, or flush toilets. Visitors should pack in all supplies needed and pack out all waste following Leave No Trace principles.

How do I make reservations for Hermit Rapids Campground?

Reservations for Hermit Rapids Primitive Campsite must be made through the National Park Service (NPS). The campsite is part of the Grand Canyon National Park's backcountry permit system. Due to its remote location and limited capacity, securing a reservation well in advance is highly recommended. For the most current reservation procedures, permit requirements, and availability, contact the Grand Canyon National Park Backcountry Information Center or visit the official NPS website.

Where is Hermit Rapids Campground located?

Hermit Rapids is a primitive campsite located deep within the Grand Canyon. This remote site is positioned along the Colorado River and is only accessible in two ways: hiking the steep Hermit Trail or arriving by raft on a river trip. Due to its isolation and challenging terrain, the National Park Service advises against attempting to reach this site as a day hike from the trailhead, as the steepness and distance make it too demanding for a single day.

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