Dispersed camping sites in the Kaibab National Forest near Cameron provide access to Grand Canyon National Park while offering more seclusion than established campgrounds. The juniper-pinyon forest landscape sits at approximately 6,000 feet elevation, creating significant temperature variations between day and night. Forest Road 682 offers multiple camping options with varying degrees of privacy and access difficulty.
What to do
Sunrise views at Desert View Watchtower: Located at the eastern entrance of Grand Canyon, campers staying at Desert View Campground can walk to prime viewing spots. "We wake up early to see the sunrise along the rim within walking distance," notes Sheila W., who adds that "there is a pretty decent General store near the watch tower."
Wildlife watching: The forest areas provide opportunities to observe native wildlife in their natural habitat. "Lots of elk walking through the campsite," reports Tory B. from Mather Campground, while Hugh M. at Forest Service Road 328 recounts, "We had a huge bull elk with his cows walk right past our camp."
Dark sky stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the dispersed camping areas provide excellent astronomical viewing conditions. "The area features excellent stargazing opportunities with minimal light pollution," states Noah Johnathon M. from Desert View, who describes it as giving "more of a nature feel to the camping experience."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between sites at dispersed camping locations. Helen F. at Kaibab Forest Dispersed FR 682 reports, "We have only seen a few other campers and there are plenty of spots with total privacy still available," while Noah Johnathon M. adds that Desert View "will give you more of a nature feel."
Pre-established fire rings: Several dispersed sites come with existing fire rings for safer campfires. Jason M. notes at Kaibab Forest Dispersed FR 682, "Plenty of established fire rings," and Charlotte S. adds, "We made a campfire which was so easy because of the firepits and all the wood."
Proximity to park entrances: The forest roads provide relatively quick access to Grand Canyon. "The closest free camping to the entrance of the grand canyon," says cole P. about Forest Service Road 328, while Tim S. describes Kaibab Forest Dispersed FR 682 as a "great place to camp not far from the East entrance to the Grand Canyon."
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access roads to dispersed sites can be challenging depending on recent weather and vehicle type. Colin M. from Kaibab Forest Dispersed FR 682 warns about "rocks in the roads," while Thomas R. notes that "access is via a gravel road and is easily manageable even with a 2WD vehicle."
Accessibility for different vehicles: Some sites accommodate larger rigs better than others. "No issues getting a Winnebago in up the bumpy road," reports Helen F. about Kaibab Forest Dispersed FR 682, but Mouni had a different experience, stating, "These are by far the worst roads and not well marked spots for camping."
No facilities or services: Unlike established campgrounds, dispersed sites lack amenities. "No water sources exist on site, so campers must pack adequate supplies," is a common requirement, and Julie G. from Desert View Campground mentions, "Non-electric and it got hot during the day. Drank a lot of water."
Tips for camping with families
Pet-friendly considerations: Dogs are welcome at most dispersed sites but require management. "The hiking trails are paved and dog-friendly, just make sure you bring something to pick up after your furry friends," advises Roger W. at Mather Campground.
Site selection for space: Families benefit from larger dispersed sites. "We went to dinner and returned to a full campground. With that being said, everyone was very kind and respectful to each others privacy," reports Samantha L. from Desert View.
Seasonal timing: Weather variations affect comfort substantially. "The temps dropped into the teens so be ready for some cold temps at the rim of the canyon," warns Tory B. about Mather Campground in October, while Michael K. suggests, "If you come here at the ends and beginning of the seasons. It is awesome. Hardly anyone here."
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Many campground sites have specific size limitations. Samantha L. at Desert View cautions, "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."
Clearance considerations: Forest roads present challenges for low-clearance vehicles. Garrett B. at Forest Road 682 shares, "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."
Levelness of sites: Finding flat parking spots can be difficult. "The sites are flat," Mark M. observes about Desert View, but Brodie D. at Cameron Trading Post RV Park had a different experience: "We couldn't find any that were even close to flat which is a bummer if you're pulling in just after dark."
