Grand Canyon National Park camping sites range from 4,000 feet elevation at the Colorado River to over 8,000 feet at North Rim locations. Temperature variations between rim and canyon floor can exceed 20°F. Dispersed camping on adjacent Forest Service land provides budget alternatives to developed campgrounds within 7 miles of park entrances.
What to do
Explore sunrise viewpoints: North Rim Campground offers walking-distance access to scenic sunrise spots. "There is a nice trail that you can take from the campground along the rim to the visitors center (about 1.5 miles)," notes Annie C., who appreciated the convenient rim access.
Visit wildlife viewing areas: The campgrounds around Grand Canyon attract diverse wildlife. At Long Jim Loop, campers report regular elk sightings. "We saw TONS of wildlife! 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," reports Carlee S. from Trailer Village RV Park.
Take advantage of shuttle services: Several campgrounds connect to park shuttle routes, reducing driving stress. A camper at Trailer Village RV Park appreciated that "Free shuttle buses every 15 mins to the rim and various visitors centers" make transportation simple.
What campers like
Proximity to less-visited areas: The North Rim receives significantly fewer visitors. "The North Rim only receives about 10% of the overall visitors to the GCNP, so its way less crowded and worth the trip," explains Beth G. at Kaibab Camper Village.
Free camping options: Forest Service Road 328 offers no-cost sites minutes from park entrances. "Closest free camping to the entrance of the grand canyon," notes Cole P., adding that the road has "lots of pull offs" where finding a spot is rarely difficult even during busy periods.
Seasonal wildlife viewing: Elk sightings are common near campgrounds, especially at dawn and dusk. "On the drive into the park you can see deer (lots at twilight) and bison," reports a Kaibab Camper Village camper, highlighting the natural viewing opportunities without guided tours.
What you should know
Limited shower access: Some campgrounds restrict shower hours or charge per use. At North Rim Campground, Rebecca F. warns that "Half the showers were out of order, very dirty, and cost a quarter a minute," suggesting campers be prepared with quarters if planning to shower.
Seasonal closures: North Rim facilities only operate mid-May through October. "North Rim Campground (Closed for Remainder of 2025)" indicates this area has limited seasonal availability due to weather conditions at higher elevations.
Temperature variations: Weather can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. "It was super hot during the day and super cold at night. Along the trails there was still some snow in the shade," notes Taylor W. about Grand Canyon Camper Village.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education opportunities: Raptor Ranch RV Park offers bird of prey demonstrations for educational experiences. "The Ranch also does demonstrations of Birds of Prey three times a day. Another educational opportunity," explains Mary B., who found this an engaging activity for visitors.
Alternative attractions: Some campgrounds feature additional entertainment options beyond canyon viewing. "The flintstone park opens at 9am and my kids had a blast playing in the park," shares Bree W. about Raptor Ranch, noting its proximity makes it an easy addition to a Grand Canyon trip.
Safety precautions: Remind children about wildlife safety and canyon edge awareness. "I had to hold Wesley's hand to make sure he kept away from the edge or didn't slip on the loose gravel path," recounts one parent about hiking with children on park trails.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing awareness: Many RV sites have strict length limitations. At Desert View Campground, Julie G. cautions that "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," suggesting larger rigs carefully verify size restrictions before booking.
Electrical considerations: Campgrounds with electrical service vary in amperage offerings. Kaibab Camper Village provides 30-amp service without 50-amp options, which matters for RVers with higher power requirements.
Hookup availability: Long Jim Loop offers dispersed camping without services but excellent proximity to park amenities. "It is so convenient, only 1 mile out from the South Rim entrance of Grand Canyon and was not crowded whatsoever," reports Lauren S., noting its accessibility for various vehicle types.
