Best Dispersed Camping near Grand Canyon National Park

Dispersed camping near Grand Canyon National Park gives you several free options on Forest Service and BLM land surrounding the park. Most sites are on rough dirt roads that become impassable when wet, so vehicles with good clearance work best. You'll need to bring everything with you - there's no water, no trash service, and no toilets at these sites. The rules are straightforward: camp at least 200 feet from any water source, stay no more than 14 days, and follow all fire restrictions (which change seasonally). During summer, temperatures can hit triple digits, making spring and fall much better times to visit. Winter camping is possible but gets very cold at night. The nearest supplies are in Tusayan or Jacob Lake, depending on which side of the canyon you're camping on. Many dispersed sites are located in the Kaibab National Forest, both north and south of the canyon rim. Wildlife encounters are common, so storing food properly is important. Most campers use these sites as a base for day trips into the national park, as they're typically 15-45 minutes from the park entrances.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Grand Canyon National Park (60)

    1. Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed

    107 Reviews
    Grand Canyon, AZ
    15 miles

    "* Great boondocking campground 5 miles from the entrance of Grand Canyon National Park!"

    "Great free dispersed camping immediately outside the Grand Canyon! There are an abundance of sites here, we spent about 45 minutes just picking and choosing our favorite."

    2. Clear Creek Area Dispersed — Grand Canyon National Park

    16 Reviews
    Grand Canyon, AZ
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 638-2443

    "I can't even begin to convey how beautiful Coconino National Forest is! Make sure you go swimming and tubing and even cliff diving!"

    "This campground has a clear crisp creek that you can access at the campground ( small stream) or a short hike to a beach like pond. You can hike along the stream, in blissful shade."

    3. Long Jim Loop Campground

    23 Reviews
    Grand Canyon, AZ
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 638-2443

    "The dirt entrance road is well maintained. We are in a 40-foot motorhome, pulling a 24-foot trailer and found multiple spots big enough for us. Online reviews of this area say it's rarely used."

    "It's a long road with several places to pull out for either motorized dispersed camping or other camping farther from the road."

    4. Saddle Mountain (Kaibab NF)

    25 Reviews
    North Rim, AZ
    19 miles
    Website

    "Long drive over some rough gravel road, but what a view at the end. Big enough site for shorter off-road trailer. No toilets. Pack-in, pack-out.

    Trailhead at the end of the road."

    "Awesome little dispersed campsites. Takes a while once you drive off the main road to get to the sites and the road is a little rough, but not bad if you have high clearance."

    5. Forest Service Road 302 Dispersed

    14 Reviews
    Grand Canyon, AZ
    17 miles
    Website

    "You are just 1 mile from town and 3 miles from the South Rim entrance. There are at least 50 sites to pick from, just turn down a little dirt road and you’ll find them all!"

    "If you are looking for a safe area that isn’t too far out of the way this spot is pretty nice. The spots go back pretty far and there is a lot of shade."

    6. Grand Canyon North Dispersed camping

    14 Reviews
    North Rim, AZ
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 635-8200

    "There is no dispersed camping inside the park but the park is bordered by the Kaibab National Forest and you can dispersed camp on several of the surrounding forest service roads between the park and the"

    "Instead I was able to find dispersed camping right near the Evans for the north rim of the grand canyon."

    7. Saddle Canyon Outlook North Rim Dispersed

    1 Review
    North Rim, AZ
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 635-8200

    "I damn near got stuck all night there and just made it back because there are no turnaround points, especially for anything over 22 ft. Not for the faint of heart or low riding rigs."

    8. Coconino Rim Road Dispersed Camping

    19 Reviews
    Grand Canyon, AZ
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 638-2443

    "Dispersed camping along the Coconino Road has plenty of locations to choose from. Be advised that the first mile or so of the road is very rough (ruts, large holes), but it does improve after that."

    "The access road was fairly well maintained, enough for even 2wd cars. The sites were large and clean. Very peaceful."

    9. Forest Road 611

    8 Reviews
    North Rim, AZ
    19 miles

    "The area near the end of the road requires high clearance 4x4 to access and that area was the busiest. We chose the spot at the Y. It had a great view and plenty of room. No facilities."

    "Stay with 611 and ignore Google Maps. About 5 arduous miles in you’ll see a parking lot and put toilet for Kaibab trailhead. Go another mile or so and you’ll start seeing spots."

    10. FS328 Dispersed Campsites

    4 Reviews
    Grand Canyon, AZ
    15 miles

    "Close dispersed to Grand Canyon. Running paved trail right by the camp sites. No garbage, no water. Pack in, pack out. Lots of sites around"

    "It's free dispersed camping , minutes away from the National Park. Nothing special here just the good ol woods."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Grand Canyon National Park

303 Reviews of 60 Grand Canyon National Park Campgrounds



Guide to Grand Canyon National Park

Dispersed camping near Grand Canyon National Park offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the stunning landscapes of Arizona. With numerous options available, campers can find secluded spots that provide both tranquility and adventure.

Dispersed campers should check out Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed

  • This area is known for its quiet spots tucked away from the highway, making it a perfect retreat for those looking to escape the crowds.
  • Campers can enjoy the freedom of fires allowed and the convenience of being pet-friendly, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone.
  • With no permits required and free access, Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed is an excellent choice for spontaneous trips.

Scenic views for dispersed campers at Saddle Mountain

  • Located in the Kaibab National Forest, this spot offers breathtaking views and the chance to pitch your tent just a short distance from the canyon's edge.
  • The area is well-reviewed for its wildlife sightings, including elk, which adds to the natural experience of camping.
  • Access to Saddle Mountain (Kaibab NF) is via a drive-in route, making it convenient for both tents and RVs.

Top activities while free camping near Grand Canyon National Park

  • Campers can explore the nearby trails and enjoy hiking opportunities that lead to stunning overlooks and unique geological features.
  • The Clear Creek Area Dispersed — Grand Canyon National Park provides access to drinking water and picnic tables, making it a great spot for day trips and outdoor activities.
  • With the option for boat-in and hike-in access, this area caters to various camping styles, allowing for a diverse range of experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Grand Canyon National Park?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Grand Canyon National Park is Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed with a 4.8-star rating from 107 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Grand Canyon National Park?

TheDyrt.com has all 60 dispersed camping locations near Grand Canyon National Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.