Dispersed camping areas in Kaibab National Forest provide numerous free camping options within 20 miles of Grand Canyon National Park. Located at elevations ranging from 6,500-8,000 feet, these sites offer pine forest shade during summer when temperatures typically reach 75-85°F, dropping to 45-55°F at night. The forest service roads access both eastern and western sections of the park, with multiple camping options available year-round unless weather conditions cause closures.
What to do
Hiking to viewpoints: Several dispersed camping areas connect to viewpoints offering unique canyon perspectives. At Saddle Mountain, campers can access remarkable views just steps from their tent. "There is a trail right super close that leads down into the canyon as well," notes Eric E., while another camper mentions "hikers I met said there was good camping from a trail that goes down into the Grand Canyon from here."
Wildlife watching: The forests surrounding Grand Canyon host diverse wildlife visible from campsites. "We had a huge bull elk with his cows walk right past our camp," shares Hugh M. from Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed. Another camper at Fire Road 688 reports similar experiences: "Saw some cows and heard an elk bugle."
Stargazing: The dark skies around dispersed sites provide exceptional night views. At Coconino Rim Road, "stars out here are beautiful," reports a camper, while at Saddle Mountain, visitors enjoy "stunning sunset and sunrise" with minimal light pollution throughout the night.
What campers like
Privacy with community balance: Many dispersed sites offer a sense of seclusion without complete isolation. At Long Jim Loop Campground, "campsites are grouped fairly close together but still dispersed, not bad on weekdays but quite busy on the weekends," explains Laura R. Similarly, at Forest Service Road 302, campers note "nice and quiet and away from other campers. Didn't see anyone at all."
Proximity to services: Despite feeling remote, most sites allow quick access to necessities. Nicole K. mentions Forest Service Road 328 is "10 minutes outside the park," while another camper at Long Jim Loop appreciates that "Little town just a minute from the loop entrance for souvenirs, food and whatever else you need, and only a couple minutes from the south rim entrance of the Grand Canyon!"
Temperature variations: The higher elevation creates comfortable camping conditions. According to one Saddle Mountain visitor, "We camped there in mid-June and it was still 39 that night with a nice breeze," providing relief from the region's summer heat.
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access roads require careful navigation during certain times. At Coconino Rim Road Dispersed Camping, visitors note "The access road was fairly well maintained, enough for even 2wd cars," though after rain or snow, some roads become challenging. A Saddle Mountain visitor cautions: "I can def see where in rain or snow you'd need 4WD and a little offroading capability."
Cellular connectivity: Coverage differs between locations. A camper at Forest Service Road 302 reports: "Verizon service was fair, averaging 2 bars 4GLTE during our stay," while another notes "AT&T coverage was weird, varying between 4 bars of LTE service, to 4 bars of 4G, to 4 bars of 3G(mostly), to no service and speeds wildly varying as well."
Early arrival recommended: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak season. "We arrived around 4 pm and all but the spots along the rim were gone," explains a Saddle Mountain visitor. Another camper advises: "It was kinda sad seeing the RVs and camper vans make it all the way along just to turn back."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible exploration: Several areas offer easy trails suitable for children. At Fire Rd 688 - Dispersed, visitors mention "Great trails for biking here too," making it ideal for family outings without traveling far from camp.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy animal sightings from the safety of camp. One visitor reports: "We were close to town for beer and ice, the only thing is, people don't pick up their trash, broken glass at every call sight I walked too, very sad, but its elk country, an elk came to visit us at night."
Temperature preparation: Pack warm clothing regardless of season. Even summer nights drop significantly at these elevations. "Even summer nights drop significantly in temperature, so layers are essential," notes one camper who experienced "39 degrees that night with a nice breeze" in June.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Some dispersed areas accommodate larger rigs better than others. At FS328 Dispersed Campsites, RVers report "Easy access with class C camper," though specific spots may have limitations. Another camper adds: "Several lovely spots to choose from. Once you enter Rd328, the first 1/4 there is no camping allowed."
Leveling considerations: Many forest sites require minimal adjustment. One Fire Rd 688 visitor notes: "The sites seem very level. We didn't need leveling blocks at our spot. Even the trees are spaced enough to provide enough sun for solar panels."
Resource planning: With no hookups available, RVers must arrive prepared. "Dry camping. Leave no trace," reminds one camper, while another suggests using facilities in Grand Canyon Village: "you can go to the Mather Campground and pay a little if you want to take a shower or to do your laundry."
