Camping near Grand Canyon National Park

Camping near Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, offers a unique experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With stunning views and a variety of campgrounds, it’s a great way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the area.

What to do:

• Explore the Grand Canyon: The breathtaking views from the rim are a must-see. Many campers recommend the short walk to the rim from Mather Campground, where one reviewer noted, "It’s about a 15-20 minute walk to the rim, or you can catch one of the frequent free shuttles."
• Hiking: There are numerous trails for all skill levels. A visitor at North Rim Campground mentioned, "Lots of trail heads within walking distance," making it easy to get out and explore.
• Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for elk and other wildlife. One camper at Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed shared, "Elk were at the water station which was so cool!"

What campers like:

• Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning landscapes. A review for Desert View Campground highlighted, "A perfect campground for nature lovers. Elk came by to 'watch us.'"
• Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peacefulness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Jacob Lake Campground said, "This is our go-to place when camping near the North Rim of the Grand Canyon."
• Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and well-maintained sites are a big plus. A camper at DeMotte National Forest Campground noted, "Extremely clean pit toilets. Quiet and dark."

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds lack certain facilities. A review for Trailer Village RV Park mentioned, "Only two bathhouses for the entire 123-site campground."
• Crowded During Peak Season: Expect larger crowds in summer. A visitor at Grand Canyon Camper Village remarked, "Our first stay we were packed in like sardines."
• Weather Variability: Nights can get chilly, especially in May. One camper at Mather Campground advised, "Pack warm clothes for nighttime. It dropped into the 40s at night."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with amenities. A parent at North Rim Campground appreciated, "The lodge area is spectacular. Greatest views from there."
• Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of family-friendly hikes. A camper at Ten-X Campground mentioned, "The price for the single size RV was $20. Toilets are new and clean."
• Bring Entertainment: Keep kids engaged with games or books for downtime. A visitor at Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed noted, "Nice little tuck away. Definitely a bumpy road finding a good spot."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Hookup Availability: Not all campgrounds have electric hookups. A review for Trailer Village RV Park stated, "All AMPs are 50 so they give you a converter if you have a 30 amp RV."
• Be Prepared for Dusty Roads: Some campgrounds have unpaved access. A visitor at Saddle Mountain mentioned, "It is a long gravel road on the way here; 4WD definitely recommended."
• Plan for Water Needs: Make sure to fill up before heading to more remote sites. A camper at Ten-X Campground advised, "There is water on site, but you are NOT ALLOWED to fill your RV from it."

Camping near Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, can be an unforgettable experience with the right preparation and knowledge. Enjoy the great outdoors!