Camping options near Cameron, Arizona range from dispersed sites with juniper trees in Kaibab National Forest to established campgrounds at the Grand Canyon. The area sits at elevations between 4,000-7,000 feet, creating temperature variations that can drop below freezing at night even during summer months. Fall and spring camping offers milder daytime temperatures between 60-75°F with significant overnight cooling.
What to do
Sunrise viewing at Desert View: The Desert View area provides exceptional sunrise viewing opportunities from the watchtower, accessible by a moderate walk from Desert View Campground. "We wake up early to see the sunrise along the rim within walking distance. There is a pretty decent General store near the watch tower," notes Sheila W.
Wildlife watching: The Grand Canyon area supports diverse wildlife, particularly elk that frequently visit campgrounds. At Trailer Village RV Park, campers report close encounters: "Female elk roamed all around the campsites, and one even wandered up while we cooked dinner to snack on the bush next to our truck," shares Carlee S.
Hiking accessible trails: Numerous trails accommodate different skill levels around the South Rim. "The hiking trails are paved and dog-friendly, just make sure you bring something to pick up after your furry friends," advises Roger W. about trails near Mather Campground, adding that they offer "Beautiful views of the Canyon."
Hammock relaxation: Dispersed sites in Kaibab National Forest feature juniper trees perfect for hammock setup. Jason M. from Kaibab Forest Dispersed FR 682 reports, "Plenty of tall junipers to get shade and hang a hammock," making these sites ideal for relaxing after hiking activities.
What campers like
Private sites at dispersed locations: Coconino Rim Road Dispersed Camping offers exceptional privacy with widely spaced sites. Ray & Terri F. note, "Almost all of the sites are very well spaced, most being 0.4 miles apart or more. Some are clustered a little more closely together, but would make nice group sites."
Easy Grand Canyon access: Proximity to the national park entrances is a significant advantage for campers in the area. At Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed, campers appreciate the convenience: "Great spots. Long road with lots of pull offs. I doubt you would have any issues ever finding a spot here no matter how busy it gets. Closest free camping to the entrance of the grand canyon," explains cole P.
Night sky viewing: The remote nature of dispersed camping areas creates prime stargazing conditions. Charlotte S. at Kaibab Forest Dispersed FR 682 describes the experience as "a nice dark sky with a million stars and a stones throw to the south rim."
Established fire rings: Many dispersed sites come with existing fire rings despite the primitive setup. Teresa A. reports about Forest Road 682, "We found lots more sites available, some large, some small. Most having fire rings." This feature saves campers time setting up cooking and warming areas.
What you should know
Seasonal temperature extremes: The elevation creates dramatic temperature swings throughout the year. "3 Day trip in October. The temps dropped into the teens so be ready for some cold temps at the rim of the canyon," warns Tory B. from Mather Campground.
Road conditions vary significantly: Access roads to dispersed sites can present challenges, particularly after weather events. At Coconino Rim Road Dispersed Camping, campers report varied experiences: "The access road was fairly well maintained, enough for even 2wd cars," according to Benjamin G., while others note rougher conditions.
Variable cell service: Connectivity fluctuates throughout the area, particularly at dispersed sites. Ray & Terri F. report from Coconino Rim Road: "AT&T coverage was weird, varying between 4 bars of LTE service, to 4 bars of 4G, to 4 bars of 3G(mostly), to no service and speeds wildly varying as well."
Limited availability at established campgrounds: The Desert View Campground operates on first-come, first-served basis and can fill quickly. Dominic U. advises, "This campsite is good although you can not reserve a spot, aka it is on a first come first serve basis and it can/does fill up."
Tips for camping with families
Amenity access planning: When camping with children, strategically choose sites based on needed facilities. For families needing regular bathroom access, consider Flagstaff KOA where Joshua M. reports it's "Very clean, safe, quiet and convenient to shops and downtown."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy wildlife encounters at established campgrounds. Tara W. notes at Grand Canyon Camper Village, "Wildlife wander through camp grounds. Some nearby trails are good for walking the dogs, just keep an eye out for elk."
Off-peak timing for best experience: Families can find more space and availability during shoulder seasons. Michael K. advises about Mather Campground: "If you come here at the ends and beginning of the seasons. It is awesome. Hardly anyone here and its the Grand Canyon son!"
Supply access consideration: Families require regular access to supplies. Megan S. notes about Mather Campground: "Had nice facilities to go the bathroom as well as a large supply area to get fire wood and any other supplies that you may have forgotten anything."
Tips from RVers
Site length limitations: Many campgrounds have strict size constraints. At Desert View Campground, Samantha L. warns: "The sites are small and it would not be suitable for large RVs (signs say 30' max). We have a truck camper and are hauling a trailer and barely fit into the pull through sites."
Hookup availability tradeoffs: Choosing between hookups and price presents a common dilemma. Cameron Trading Post RV Park offers full hookups but Jo notes limitations: "For about $35 you get a place right on the highway (hello noise) that has private security patrolling it. No bathroom, no WiFi, no 30 amp electricity."
Dispersed camping access for larger RVs: Some forest roads can accommodate larger rigs with careful planning. Garrett B. shares about Forest Road 682: "We had no trouble getting our 39 foot Class A back there, but there is a decent little hill in the driveway that could cause a problem for a longer-wheelbase vehicle."
Leveling challenges: RVers should prepare for uneven terrain at many sites. Julie G. notes about Desert View Campground: "The max length of rv that can fit in the pull thru sites is 30. My trailer is 20 plus the truck. It hardly fit. Beautiful for tent camping and van sites."
