RV camping at North Rim, Arizona offers a completely different experience from South Rim locations due to its higher elevation of 8,000+ feet and cooler summer temperatures. The North Rim has limited seasonal access with most facilities closing from mid-October through mid-May because of heavy snowfall. Cell service throughout the North Rim region varies dramatically between campgrounds, with many locations having no connectivity.
What to do
Hiking to canyon views: From North Rim Campground, access the Transept Trail for canyon views without driving. "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.
Wildlife viewing: Many North Rim camping areas offer excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. "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. at Trailer Village RV Park.
Night sky experiences: The North Rim's elevation and distance from major cities creates exceptional stargazing conditions. At Long Jim Loop Campground, Emily K. shares, "The stars out here are beautiful, and I didn't hear the road traffic cause we were in the back 40 area."
What campers like
High elevation temps: The cooler temperatures at North Rim compared to South Rim locations provide relief during summer months. Les G. at Kaibab Camper Village notes it's "A cool, high elevation park for hot weather stays."
Access to canyon overlooks: Dispersed camping sites offer remarkable proximity to canyon views without the crowds. "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. at Saddle Mountain.
Fewer tourists: The North Rim receives only about 10% of Grand Canyon visitors compared to the South Rim. "More importantly, there are fewer people here at the North Rim, so you feel less claustrophobic," writes Annie C. about North Rim Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some North Rim camping areas requires navigating rough forest roads. At Saddle Mountain, Tammy G. advises, "The road was pretty bumpy in areas. I can def see where in rain or snow you'd need 4WD and a little offroading capability."
Limited shower facilities: Many North Rim campgrounds have minimal or pay-per-use shower facilities. At Kaibab Camper Village, Reese W. reports, "The office staff was super friendly, and let us buy quarters for the coin showers with a debit card (in rolls of $10). It was $2.25 for 5 minutes."
Seasonal operation: Most RV parks near North Rim, Arizona close during winter. The North Rim Campground within the park operates only from May 15 to October 31, though it's closed for 2025. Kaibab Camper Village opens slightly earlier, from May 14 to October 15.
Tips for camping with families
Nearby attractions: Some RV parks North Rim, Arizona offer additional activities beyond canyon viewing. Lorena V. at Raptor Ranch RV Park & Campground shares, "Kids loved it, great halfway point to the Grand Canyon to spend the day, bed rock city and raptor tour was great."
Wildlife education: North Rim camping provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities for children. James L. at Trailer Village RV Park observed, "We were here for Halloween and the only trick or treaters we encountered was 3 mule deer and 1 coyote."
Weather preparation: North Rim temperatures can drop significantly at night, even in summer. Courtney P. at Grand Canyon Camper Village advises, "It was warm during the day and SUPER cold at night so be prepared with a heavy sleeping bag!"
Tips from RVers
Camping outside the park: For RV camping near North Rim, Arizona without advance reservations, look at Forest Service options. At Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed, Hugh M. explains, "We car camped here for two nights while we did day trips into the park. It's a great way to avoid all the campers and noise inside the park."
Site spacing: RV sites at most North Rim-area campgrounds have varied spacing between units. Michael J. at Kaibab Camper Village notes, "It's a nice campground, but the spaces are right on top of each other, which for me is undesirable.... but, if everything else is full, you'll welcome the spot!"
Site length limitations: Check maximum RV length before booking. At Desert View Campground, Julie G. cautions, "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."
