Forest Service Road 328 offers free dispersed camping just outside Grand Canyon National Park's South Rim entrance. This area, located at 36.0° N latitude, provides primitive camping with no amenities but sits at a lower elevation than North Rim (8,297 feet), making it accessible during winter months when North Rim facilities close. Sites along the forest service road include established clearings with fire rings where campers can set up tents or small RVs.
What to do
Rim trail hiking with pets: The North Rim Campground connects to a 1.5-mile trail along the canyon rim where leashed pets can join their owners. "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. from North Rim Campground. "Be sure to fill up on water before you go hiking (which is just a good idea in general)."
Wildlife viewing: The ponderosa pine forest around Saddle Mountain provides excellent opportunities to observe local wildlife. "It started snowing soon after I arrived so I didn't stay long though hikers I met said there was good camping from a trail that goes down into the Grand Canyon from here," shares Cheri C. Elk sightings are common throughout the area.
Sunrise at canyon's edge: For those seeking a memorable morning, dispersed camping allows for prime viewing locations. "Free sites, t mobile and Verizon service, amazing views and sunrises. Hikes all around. 2 mile hike into the actual national park," reports Brad L. about Saddle Mountain. Early morning temperatures can be surprisingly cold, even in summer months.
What campers like
Lower crowds: The North Rim receives only 10% of the visitors compared to the South Rim, creating a more relaxed atmosphere. "More importantly, there are fewer people here at the North Rim, so you feel less claustrophobic," says Annie C. about North Rim Campground. "The camp sites have the typical fire rings and picnic tables and are clean and level and shaded by huge ponderosa pines."
Free camping options: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the dispersed camping areas near North Rim. "Perfect spot close to the entrance. Great spots. Long road with lots of pull offs. I doubt you would have any issues ever finding a spot here no matter how busy it gets," explains Cole P. about Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed.
Unique forest environment: Many campers are surprised by the wooded setting. "The pine forest setting was an unexpected surprise for the AZ desert," Amanda D. notes about North Rim Campground. This forest environment provides natural shade and creates habitat for diverse wildlife around campsites.
What you should know
Limited seasonal access: North Rim facilities operate on a restricted schedule due to weather conditions. "Only got to hike the Rim Trail and Grandview Point Trail but it being my 1st time to the Grand Canyon I couldn't complain and still spent the next few days in awe," explains Fain H. about Desert View Campground.
Temperature fluctuations: The high elevation creates dramatic daily temperature swings. "It was cool, rainy, and overcast while I was here, but I didn't let that stop me from hiking. The trees did a great job of sheltering me from most of the rain," shares Annie C. about North Rim Campground. Pack appropriate clothing for rapid weather changes.
Limited services: Pet owners should prepare for minimal veterinary services nearby. "Been here couple days now. Plenty of room and other campers around. Feel isolated but not totally alone," says Nicole K. about Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed. Bring pet supplies, medications, and first aid items.
Tips for camping with families
Opt for established campgrounds: Families with children often prefer campgrounds with basic amenities. "Sites are generously sized and spaced out. Lots of sites; large campground. VERY close to the Transept Canyon, a side canyon that feeds into the Grand Canyon," notes Patrick H. about North Rim Campground.
Consider alternative options: When North Rim fills up, DeMotte National Forest Campground offers nearby pet-friendly camping. "Great campsite to stay out if you're planning on going to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Not too far, but far enough that it's not crazy busy," suggests Danny W. "Nice campsites, trees provide some shading. Facilities are pretty decent."
Plan for insects: Certain times of year bring more bugs to the area. "BRING BUGSPRAY," Danny W. warns about DeMotte Campground. During summer monsoon season, insects can be particularly active after rainfall.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many North Rim camping areas restrict larger vehicles. "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," advises Julie G. about Desert View Campground. Most pet-friendly camping areas near North Rim have limited spaces for large RVs.
Consider road conditions: Forest service roads can be challenging for some vehicles. "About 45 minute drive on a gravel road, nothing too crazy. Once you get to the dispersed sites you will be amazed," reports Monte W. about Saddle Mountain. Some roads become impassable during wet weather or winter conditions.
Early arrival recommended: Secure spots early, especially during peak season. "In this dispersed campground in the nature you are near everything near to Grand Canyon near to some market but it's also so calm," shares Jérémy D. about Long Jim Loop Campground.
