Grand Canyon National Park, AZ is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Grand Canyon National Park is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Grand Canyon National Park camping trip.
$6 - $50 / night
"This was a really nice and surprisingly affordable campground inside Grand Canyon National Park. Amazing location for distance."
"I feel like this is a park that you give up privacy and a 'back to nature' experience, so you can be in the heart of Grand Canyon National Park."
"NFS dispersed campsite just south of the entrance of the Grand Canyon National Park. There may be 6 other parties back here with everyone quietly enjoying the evening."
"Great secluded spots with privacy that are just outside the Grand Canyon National Park. Took a 28’ trailer in with no problems at all. Everything was great."
"Good campground in the Grand Canyon National Park. Great bike trails to get around. Bathrooms could use update but clean. Elk right in the campground… And I mean right in the campground!"
"You would still need to pay the entrance fee into Grand Canyon National Park. Our site was 62 and we were close to the bus stop for the free shuttle bus around the park."
$6 - $50 / night
"My wife and I took a week long road trip through Arizona, we made no plans and no reservations."
"We should never have questioned the 4.5 hour drive from the South Rim because in all honesty - this was the best campground in or on or around the Grand Canyon."
"Just south of the Grand Canyon National park. It was a breeze to go back and forth between the campground and park. Nice and quiet and the people in the office are nice."
"You can walk to the canyon rim or walk to shuttles that will take you anywhere in the park. Grocery store also within walking distance (10 min?). Wildlife wander through camp grounds."
$40 / night
"Perfect little spot right outside of the Grand Canyon National Park. Picnic tables, fire rings, charcoal grill, and bathrooms. Everything you need right here."
"clean facilities. attractions: wildlife around campground. close to Grand Canyon National Park. bus to Canyon stop near."
"Parked & Hiked In Very Primitive located next to creek sandy Campsite with Primitive Stone Fire Pit"
"Close to tons of activities, lots of hiking, wildlife, water sports. Campsite itself is nice, similar to many National Park Service and National Forest Service sites I've been to."
"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."
"Road gets quite busy in the evenings with people looking for spots but if unable to find one, there is Mather Campground or a dispersed off road site 2 minutes down the road just past Smokey Bear sign"
"I had never backpacked and slept in a tent without having some kind of civilization around or modern conveniences nearby. We began training by Keto diet and walking everyday."
"I don't think anyone is making this trip just for the opportunity to stay here, but Bright Angel Campground certainly doesn't take away from the overall experience."
"Right on the edge of the Canyon, watching the Arizona sunrises every morning. It was truly heaven on earth."
"I can def see where in rain or snow you'd need 4WD and a little offroading capability. We arrived around 4 pm and all but the spots along the rim were gone."
ScoutA really convenient spot for those looking to tent, car camp or pull up in a RV. About a 10 minute drive until the Grand Canyon. Private sections with already established fire pits but other people near by so didn’t feel isolated! Great find.
GuideMather Campground is a fantastic place to stay when visiting Grand Canyon National Park. The campsites are spacious, shaded by tall pines, and offer a wonderful sense of privacy and calm. Facilities are clean and well-maintained, with easy access to water, restrooms, and shuttle stops. The best part is how close it is to the South Rim—just a short walk or quick bike ride to stunning viewpoints and trails. Whether you’re camping in a tent or an RV, Mather provides that classic national park experience: quiet nights under starry skies and mornings filled with birdsong. Highly recommended!
RangerWe stayed 2 nights here and it was a blast. Keep going past the cattle guard and down the main forest service road. You will come to a set of bathrooms and a look out tower that is open to the public! It was a really unique experience!
RangerWe came in without a reservation— the lady was very helpful and let us know that she would call us with any cancellations. They were able to fit us in, unfortunately we had already left the area but it was nice to know she followed through with her word!
RangerWe loved staying here! Very peaceful and beautiful! We stayed right next to the watch tower and bathrooms!
RangerWe loved this place. We ended up stating further to the back but all of the spots are very easy to access!
RangerWe hiked the entire place, ended up choosing a spot further back. But it’s all super beautiful and easy to get to.
LegendNot far from east entrance to south rim of canyon. Quiet, shorter spaces, so not too many bigger rigs, no hookups. Juniper and pinon trees offer some shade, temps were moderate, no bugs so no screens needed. Gas station nearby with visitor center and store. Clean bathrooms with flush toilets, water centrally located. Busy with tourists but not crowded. AND, no fees to enter during gov't shutdown. Level sites.
GuideVery spacious campground. Clear instructions from the rangers re parking, facilities etc. easy access to shuttle buses which can take you around the whole south rim and all the trails. Near well-stoked grocery store. On the pricer side for a campground ($30 for a tent + park entry) but probably the cheapest way to stay near the Grand Canyon! Flush toilets which are heated. Showers and laundry available unless wild fire restrictions (check website before for info!).
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.
Camping near Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, can be an unforgettable experience with the right preparation and knowledge. Enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to camp in Grand Canyon National Park?
Camping costs at Grand Canyon vary by location and amenities. Inside the park, Trailer Village RV Park charges fees for full hookup sites, while tent camping at developed campgrounds like Mather typically costs $18-25 per night. For budget-conscious travelers, Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed offers free camping just outside the park entrance with secluded spots suitable for RVs up to 28 feet. Many backcountry sites like Deer Creek and Tuweep require permits that range from $10 for the permit plus $8 per person per night. Always check the National Park Service website for current fees as they may change seasonally.
What are the best campgrounds in Grand Canyon National Park?
Grand Canyon offers exceptional camping options for various preferences. Mather Campground is highly rated for its affordable sites inside the park with shower and laundry facilities, making it ideal for South Rim visitors. For a more secluded experience, Tuweep Campground provides primitive sites with stunning overlook views, though it requires permits and is accessible only via dirt roads that may be impassable during wet weather. Backpackers seeking solitude should consider Deer Creek Campsite, which requires permits and has a two-night maximum stay. For RV travelers, Trailer Village RV Park offers full hookups with convenient bike trail access within the park.
Is tent camping allowed in Grand Canyon National Park?
Yes, tent camping is allowed and popular throughout Grand Canyon National Park. Bright Angel Campground offers a unique tent camping experience at the bottom of the canyon, accessible only by hiking or mule ride. For easier access, Cottonwood Campground provides designated tent sites with basic amenities. Most developed campgrounds within the park have tent pads, picnic tables, and nearby restrooms. Tent camping is also permitted in designated backcountry areas with proper permits. For those seeking a more primitive experience, several dispersed camping options exist just outside park boundaries on national forest land. Remember that weather conditions vary dramatically by season and elevation, so bring appropriate gear for your camping dates.
Do I need reservations for camping at Grand Canyon South Rim?
Yes, reservations are strongly recommended for South Rim camping, especially during peak season (March-October). Tusayan-Montane, located just outside the park, fills quickly despite having spacious, wooded sites with picnic tables and fire rings. This campground offers a good alternative with nearby shuttle service to the canyon. For those planning to stay inside the park, South Rim campgrounds like Mather should be booked up to 6 months in advance through recreation.gov. If you're unable to secure reservations, consider Jacob Lake Campground which provides spacious sites with access to hiking trails, though it's farther from the rim. First-come, first-served camping is limited and extremely competitive during busy months.
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