Top Tent Camping near Grand Canyon National Park

Searching for a tent campsite near Grand Canyon National Park? The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. From remote to easy-to-reach, these Grand Canyon National Park campsites are perfect for tent campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Grand Canyon National Park, AZ (21)

    Camper-submitted photo from Bright Angel Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bright Angel Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bright Angel Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bright Angel Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bright Angel Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bright Angel Campground

    1. Bright Angel Campground

    12 Reviews
    39 Photos
    99 Saves

    The area is characterized by the river delta where Bright Angel Creek meets the Colorado River. There is a ranger station, emergency phone, pay phones, year-round potable water, and toilets. To reach this campground you can travel the South Kaibab Trail (and cross the black bridge) or the Bright Angel Trail (and cross the silver bridge) from the South Rim, or travel the North Kaibab Trail from the North Rim. Cottonwood trees shade Bright Angel Campground and the creek is a wonderful place to cool off. Deer, ringtail cats, gray foxes, and squirrels are often seen. Popular activities include relaxing, wading in Bright Angel Creek, stargazing, fishing (license required), and day hiking. Day hike destinations include the River Trail and Phantom Overlook. Seasonal ranger programs are offered. Snack items and meals are available for purchase at Phantom Ranch Lodge (meals must be reserved in advance 303-297-2757).

    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo from Havasupai Reservation Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Havasupai Reservation Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Havasupai Reservation Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Havasupai Reservation Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Havasupai Reservation Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Havasupai Reservation Campground

    2. Havasupai Reservation Campground

    13 Reviews
    81 Photos
    176 Saves
    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $140 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Ranch
    Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Ranch

    3. Phantom Ranch

    9 Reviews
    41 Photos
    55 Saves

    Phantom Ranch is a historic oasis nestled at the bottom of Grand Canyon. It is on the north side of the Colorado River tucked in beside Bright Angel Creek. Make sure to put in your Phantom Ranch reservations, as its the only lodging below the canyon rim, and can only be reached by mule, on foot or by rafting the Colorado River. The rustic cabins and main lodge are built of wood and native stone blending with the natural beauty of the setting. Our cabins and dorms do not have phones or televisions, but a pay phone is available at Phantom Ranch (credit card or phone card ONLY). The Phantom Ranch Canteen serves breakfast and dinner, which must be reserved in advance. If you have special dietary needs, such as glucose intolerance or food allergies, please advise the reservation agent at the time of booking. Phantom Ranch will do their best to accommodate all special requests. You must hike out your own trash.

    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
    • Tent Cabin
    • Market

    $52 - $253 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Garden
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Garden
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Garden
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Garden
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Garden
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Garden

    4. Indian Garden

    8 Reviews
    32 Photos
    227 Saves
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table

    $10 - $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Camp - Grand Canyon National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Camp - Grand Canyon National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Camp - Grand Canyon National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Camp - Grand Canyon National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Camp - Grand Canyon National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Camp - Grand Canyon National Park

    5. Cottonwood Camp - Grand Canyon National Park

    9 Reviews
    48 Photos
    112 Saves

    Cottonwood Camp is located on the North Kaibab Trail halfway between the North Rim and the Colorado River. Since the North Rim only gets about 10% of the visitation of the South Rim, Cottonwood also gets fewer visitors. It is also much more rustic than it’s South Rim neighbors, Bright Angel Campground and Indian Garden. Because of this, I have found that the majority of the people who make it to Cottonwood tend to be better prepared and more of the ‘backpacker-type’ as well. Download NPS Corridor Trails Hiking Map (PDF – Free Adobe Reader required) There are 11 small group site accommodating 1 – 6 people and 1 large site for a group of 7 – 11 people. All sites are located north or upstream of the ranger station. Below are some photos of the ranger station and a couple campsites. The bulletin board and water faucet with treated water is located near the composting toilets, also shown below. Some things to be aware of at Cottonwood: Treated water is only available during the non-freezing season. So be sure to check with the Backcountry Office before you come down if your timing is in early spring or late fall. Bright Angel Creek flows year ’round, so you can always get water from the creek as long as you treat it. Carry toilet paper with you! Cottonwood is often out. Due to lack of funding, Cottonwood is usually not manned full time. Rangers check it from Roaring Springs or Phantom Ranger Station. This means that if something happens here, you have to be prepared for emergencies yourself. Carry a good first aid kit and make sure that you take all the precautions to prevent illness and injury. There is an emergency phone located located outside the ranger station.

    • Tents
    • Group
    • Picnic Table
    • Drinking Water
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 305 - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 305 - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 305 - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 305 - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 305 - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 305 - Dispersed Camping

    6. Forest Road 305 - Dispersed Camping

    10 Reviews
    8 Photos
    260 Saves

    Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Learn more: https://www.campendium.com/camping/boondocking-101/

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Saddle Canyon Outlook North Rim Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Saddle Canyon Outlook North Rim Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Saddle Canyon Outlook North Rim Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Saddle Canyon Outlook North Rim Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Saddle Canyon Outlook North Rim Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Saddle Canyon Outlook North Rim Dispersed

    7. Saddle Canyon Outlook North Rim Dispersed

    1 Review
    16 Photos
    40 Saves

    The vast majority of all three ranger districts of the Kaibab National Forest is open to dispersed camping unless specifically restricted for reasons such as proximity to developed campgrounds or other natural or cultural resource concerns. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest outside of a developed campground. If you plan to disperse camp on the Kaibab National Forest, please review our Dispersed Camping Guidelines and Restrictions.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Hollow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Hollow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Hollow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Hollow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Hollow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Hollow Campground

    8. Indian Hollow Campground

    3 Reviews
    14 Photos
    247 Saves

    Indian Hollow is a first-come, first-served, free-use, primitive campground with 3 sites. It is not suitable for large RVs or large groups of people. "Indian Hollow Campground" Images Album

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Hermit Rapids
    Camper-submitted photo from Hermit Rapids
    Camper-submitted photo from Hermit Rapids
    Camper-submitted photo from Hermit Rapids
    Camper-submitted photo from Hermit Rapids
    Camper-submitted photo from Hermit Rapids
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Rapids
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Rapids
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Rapids
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Rapids
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Rapids
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Rapids
Showing results 1-10 of 21 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews In Grand Canyon National Park

699 Reviews of 21 Grand Canyon National Park Campgrounds


  • ron R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kaibab Rd 302
    Oct. 26, 2024

    Kaibab Rd 302

    Great little place out of the way among many great places around here

    I stayed at the top of the first Hill on the left near the information station. T-Mobile cell service is decent. You're far enough away from the road to not hear traffic noise however the helicopters go by from 8:00 a.m. until about 8:00 p.m.. they come by about every half hour. Being that it's the beginning of the road 302 you do get a little bit of cars driving for further spots. All in all great little place.

  • James B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jacob Lake Campground - Kaibab National Forest
    Oct. 25, 2024

    Jacob Lake Campground - Kaibab National Forest

    Terrific spot

    We stayed here four nights while visiting Grand Canyon National Park. The site was spacious, well separated from other sites, level, and directly adjacent to a network of easy hiking trails that we took our dog on every day. Water nearby, clean vault toilets, and a very short hop across the highway for gas, food, and essentials. Hosts were very friendly.

  • Farhan
    Camper-submitted photo from Desert View Campground — Grand Canyon National Park
    Oct. 22, 2024

    Desert View Campground — Grand Canyon National Park

    very nice

    A nice place to stay with tent and RV options. Bathrooms are close, and there’s water near the sites. Just a few things: if the host isn't around when you arrive, you might have to wait to check in. A ranger was inviting guests to a morning talk, but my family wasn’t included, which made my youngest upset. Also, be careful of a coyote that’s been seen around the campsite and has attacked people before.

  • Waleed H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Desert View Campground — Grand Canyon National Park
    Oct. 22, 2024

    Desert View Campground — Grand Canyon National Park

    Amazing

    A great spot to stay with options for tents or RVs. The bathrooms are easily accessible from all areas, and water is available near the sites. A few things to note: if the host isn’t present when you arrive, you might need to wait until they’re free to complete your check-in. A ranger was inviting guests to a morning session, but my family wasn’t included, which upset my youngest. Lastly, there’s a coyote that roams the campground and has been known to attack, so stay alert.

  • adan
    Camper-submitted photo from Desert View Campground — Grand Canyon National Park
    Oct. 22, 2024

    Desert View Campground — Grand Canyon National Park

    Nice campground

    A pleasant place to stay, offering both tent and RV spots. The bathrooms are conveniently close to all the sites, and there’s water available nearby. A few things to keep in mind: if the host isn’t around when you arrive, you may need to wait until they’re done to complete your check-in. Additionally, a park ranger was inviting guests to a morning talk, but for some reason, they didn’t invite my family, which upset my youngest child. Lastly, be cautious—there’s a coyote that’s been seen around the campsite and has attacked people before.

  • Patrick J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Trailer Village RV Park
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Trailer Village RV Park

    Nice Visit

    Located inside the NP and close to the south rim made for place to spend 5 days. Checking in was ok, the guy checking us in appeared to be a bit stressed when 4 RV's wanted to check in at once. He did a great job of getting our group of three together. Utilities were well placed and trash cans we close by. Rode our bikes from the park to the various places on the south rims. I would put this on the list of the places I would come back to.

  • Carol B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from DeMotte National Forest Campground
    Oct. 12, 2024

    DeMotte National Forest Campground

    Close to GC North Rim and very wooded

    Demotte was heavily wooded with fairly private sites. A variety of camping situations and equipment coexisted easily. The 15 min drive into Grand Canyon park was great (psssst cheaper gas inside of GC park than outside of it).
    Pit toilets, potable water, and picnic table and fire ring were all appreciated. No showers and no Verizon cell service at all. I’d stay there again! Just wish there were more amenities.

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Clear Creek
    Oct. 11, 2024

    Clear Creek

    A fantastic spot for camping, especially for beginners and nature photograp

    I left my camera at home, so I used my Android phone to snap some pictures and edited them in the PS CC app. The results turned out amazing!

  • Mouni The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kaibab Forest Dispersed FR 682
    Oct. 4, 2024

    Kaibab Forest Dispersed FR 682

    Horrible Roads

    I’ve been in some pretty bad roads for dispersed camping but this one takes the cake. These are by far the worst roads and not well marked spots for camping.

  • James  L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Trailer Village RV Park
    Oct. 1, 2024

    Trailer Village RV Park

    Grand Canyon

    The park is wonderful got to see it. The camping spot are worn out in here section I was in some other of the others are real nice

  • Alice S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Long Jim Loop Campground
    Sep. 28, 2024

    Long Jim Loop Campground

    Great Location

    Super close to the Grand Canyon. Easy access. There are some rough patches in the road but even large rvs can still come and go easy as long as they slow down.

    The location can be busy especially during tourist season. I went during the off time so it wasn’t too bad but it still had quite a few people.

    The cell coverage was good enough for phone calls no problems but internet was really hit and miss. Mostly miss.

  • Alice S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Grand Canyon Airport Forest Road - Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Old Grand Canyon Airport Forest Road - Dispersed Camping

    Lots of privacy

    Very easy to find. The gravel road you go down to get there is extremely well kept and there are lots of sites to choose from.

    If you are in a big rv I would definitely suggest stopping at one of the first few sites that are wide open field type. You won’t fit in any farther down the road.

    The size of the sites vary and some are have narrow paths to get to but overall I think pretty much anyone could find a site that suits them. I really liked being able to get further into the woods so I had lots of privacy and could not see the road.

    The cell signal fluctuated a lot but overall it was pretty good. The farther down the road you go the worse the cell signal gets.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Service #225 Road Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Forest Service #225 Road Dispersed Camping

    Easy on, easy off, big open sites

    The site was really easy to get to, right off the road. We ended up taking the first available campsite and it’s really nice big wide open area with an established fire pit. You can hear some road traffic but it’s sporadic. Two other vehicles passed us looking for campsites one was a bigger RV and the other was an SUV. Neither one came back down so they must’ve found a spot.

  • Noel L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Grand Canyon Camper Village
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Grand Canyon Camper Village

    Needs TLC

    Surprisingly the gravel site was level but over grown by weeds. 294 sites plus tent area and only a quarter occupied. Small old restroom. Pay for your showers. Has laundry room. Has picnic tables. Great location to grand canyon. Close to a great general store and restaurants. This would be an awesome place with some TLC. Way over priced .

  • Greg D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jacob Lake Campground - Kaibab National Forest
    Sep. 21, 2024

    Jacob Lake Campground - Kaibab National Forest

    Forest Service Campground

    This is a very nice Forest Service campground, nice separation between sites and the vault toilets are very clean. We’ve seen quite a few established campgrounds with full hookups that aren’t as clean. There’s some traffic noise but not too bad. Shaded with pines

  • Greg N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tusayan-Montane — Grand Canyon National Park
    Sep. 19, 2024

    Tusayan-Montane — Grand Canyon National Park

    Best of USFS!

    Eight minutes from GCNP entrance, off the road with beautiful trees and stars. The camp host was so friendly and shared that many sites are reservable ahead of time but also there are always first come first serve sites set aside. Clean roads, easy access sites, level spots for tenting and even easier for RV. Would recommend to anyone wanting quieter setting with park/town convenience!

  • Annisa A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Coconino Rim Road, Fire Road 310 Kaibab Forest
    Sep. 16, 2024

    Coconino Rim Road, Fire Road 310 Kaibab Forest

    BEST spot ever!

    We accidentally stumbled upon this camp spot on our way to the other one we planned to stay at just south of the national park. When we arrived, there was only one van in our proximity. So surprised that this area is a dispersed camping area (read that they are planning to make this spot paid). The best camping area we stayed at in our three weeks road trip.



Guide to 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!

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Grand Canyon National Park is Bright Angel Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 12 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 21 tent camping locations near Grand Canyon National Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.