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Best Tent Camping near North Rim, AZ

862 Reviews

Dispersed tent camping opportunities abound near North Rim, Arizona, with Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed and Saddle Canyon Outlook North Rim Dispersed providing free primitive options in the Kaibab National Forest. Both sites permit tent camping with walk-in access and drive-in capability, making them accessible options for backcountry camping enthusiasts. The most developed tent sites in the area are located within Grand Canyon National Park, including Bright Angel Campground and Cottonwood Campground, which require hiking in to reach.

Primitive tent sites in the North Rim area typically lack amenities, with most dispersed sites offering no running water, toilets, or trash service. Campers should bring ample water supplies and be prepared to pack out all waste. Fire rings may be present at some dispersed sites, though fires are permitted only when fire restrictions are not in effect. A visitor noted that "Saddle Canyon Outlook North Rim has amazing views but no facilities whatsoever, so come fully prepared." Sites are typically set on forest soil with minimal grading, and some require high-clearance vehicles to access. Most dispersed camping follows the standard 14-day stay limit common on National Forest land.

For tent campers seeking more established options within the Grand Canyon, backcountry permits are required. According to one camper, "Cottonwood Campground wasn't too crowded, and even if it had been full, I think it would have been OK since the camp sites are further apart than the other main corridor campgrounds." These in-canyon tent sites offer amenities like running water (seasonally), composting toilets, and designated tent pads with food storage boxes to protect supplies from wildlife. Sites at Bright Angel Campground provide access to Phantom Ranch's small store for limited resupply options. Most backcountry tent campsites in the canyon become extremely hot during summer months, with shade being limited and valuable, so spring and fall provide more comfortable tent camping conditions.

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Best Tent Sites Near North Rim, Arizona (23)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near North Rim, AZ

41 Photos of 23 North Rim Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near North Rim, AZ

862 Reviews of 23 North Rim Campgrounds

  • Christine J.
    Sep. 19, 2020

    Jacob Lake Campground - Kaibab National Forest

    Nice and Convenient

    RV's & Tents. Hosts were awesome and helpful. Firewood available on site for purchase. Vault toilets but kept clean. Campsites were nice and space apart. Fire rings and very nice picnic tables. About 50 miles from North Rim of Grand Canyon.

  • Kelly Anne M.
    Jun. 6, 2021

    Jacob Lake Campground - Kaibab National Forest

    Quaint, friendly and near south rim

    This was such a quaint friendly campsite. The woman here was by far the sweetest. They sell ice cream treats and ice too, with pristine vault toilets and sinks. We had such a nice quiet stay. The tent sites are all very close together but because it was empty, we had a wonderfully quiet stay camped between some trees. And yes fire rings were amazing considering the no fire restrictions all around the area. It’s about an hour from North Rim Grand Canyon which is highly recommended. We went out onto Bright angel point. There were other camp sites further in toward the rim, but they didn’t come up on the Dyrt so not sure their availability. Overall it was a great spot.

  • Annie C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 9, 2017

    DeMotte National Forest Campground

    DeMotte Campground, North Rim Grand Canyon

    I am still amazed that we were able to get a campsite at this popular campground just seven miles from the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. I loved how super clean it was with very attentive hosts. There are two loops and while it's a first come first pick set up, the campers and rigs seemed to stay in the lower loop and it was tents only on the upper loop while we were there. Just vault toilets and water, no showers, but showers were available at the campground in the Park. We had quite a few mule deer hanging out on the outskirts of our campsite, and even spotted some of those cool tassel-eared Kaibab squirrels. There is more shade in the upper loop than the lower loop, and while there wasn't really enough understory for a lot of privacy, the camp sites were nicely spaced apart. There was a nice little general store/gas station a little ways down the road if you need some supplies.

  • Troy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2021

    Granite Rapids Area Campsites — Grand Canyon National Park

    Granite Rapids Primitive Campsite

    This is a common area for rafters to run the river and take a break. It's also a good place to witness the power of the Colorado River. There are only two ways to get to the Granite Rapids Primitive Campsite- ride a raft or hike a trail. We hiked from the Grand Canyon South Rim starting at the Hermit Trail trailhead, down the Hermit Trail, to the Granite Rapids campsite. The descent down the Hermit Trail requires hiking down a rocky trail with some rough dirt or stone steps. There are segments of the trail with exposure and steep drops.

    Along the way, you'll see dramatic views of the Grand Canyon and a variety of rock formations and geological features. In the spring there were some beautiful flowers budding on the cacti. There are no real facilities at this site, the beauty of this site is that it is rustic with great views and there will likely be no one else around. There is no water available along the trail until you reach the bottom of the canyon and the Colorado River. It is possible to take a detour to collect water near the Monument Creek campsite. 

    The NPS recommends that people do not try to day hike (in one day) to this location from the South Rim trailhead. The hike down is simple enough, but the hike up is steep, rocky, has no water and is not often traveled by other hikers or the rangers. The water and rapids are fast, so exercise caution if you enter the river.The site is a primitive campsite so you simply find a clear area and pitch your tent. Leave No Trace principles should be applied.

  • Clint G.
    Jul. 20, 2021

    Mather Campground — Grand Canyon National Park

    Location Plus

    This campground is very close to the south rim of the Grand Canyon which is great!  Camping here is dry, no hook ups at all, which was disappointing.  There is potable water to fill your tank and a dump at exit.  Our site was unlevel on asphalt  and tight to squeeze into.  There was a fire ring and picnic table provided as well as vault toilets.

  • Megan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 9, 2025

    Fire Rd 688 - Dispersed

    Quiet wooded camp site

    Easy to navigate even towing a vehicle behind our RV. Quiet, wooded site away from road noise. Our site had a fire pit and wood provided when we pulled in. Approx 11 miles from the town Grand canyon village/ South rim of the grand canyon. 14 days consecutive stay limit. Dry camping. Leave no trace.

  • Troy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2021

    Horn Creek Campsites — Grand Canyon National Park

    Horn Creek Primitive Campsite

    To get to this backcountry campsite one must hike along the Tonto Plateau to reach this primitive site. The site is nestled within a riparian zone. The site is a primitive campsite so you find a clear area and pitch your tent. There were some hard packed areas to pitch a tent on top of the flat rock and near the cottonwood tree. Leave No Trace principles should be applied. There is no water source at this site, so you must carry in your own water.

    We hiked from the Grand Canyon South Rim starting at the Hermit Trail trailhead, down the Hermit Trail, across the Tonto Plateau to this campsite. The hike from Monument Creek is mostly at the same elevation with some ups and downs. Be sure to load up on water when you leave Monument Creek.

    Along the way, you'll see dramatic views of the Grand Canyon and a variety of geological features such as copper shale and rock formations. In the spring there was some beautiful prairie grass along the plateau. There are no real facilities at this site, the beauty of this site is that it is rustic with great views and there will likely be no one else around.

  • Kelsey L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 2, 2018

    Jacob Lake Campground - Kaibab National Forest

    Dispersed National Forest camping

    Dispersed camping is allowed in the nearby Kaibab National Forest. Some existing sites are present but you can pretty much pull off and camp anywhere (following Leave No Trace principles, of course). Cooler temperatures because of the elevation made this a fantastic place to camp.

  • Tiffany S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Coconino Rim Road, Fire Road 310 Kaibab Forest

    Peaceful spot

    On our way around the west from Louisiana our first major stop was the Grand Canyon. After a long day of driving and exploring we needed a spot to set up for the evening. I came across this spot on here and it did not disappoint.

    This spot was just off of our route out of the park. Off 64/desert view dr. Turn onto coconino rim road / fire rd 310 and go down the dirt road until you cross over the cattle guard. We found a lovely spot right by the Kaibab national forest sign.

    The spots are not clearly marked but one had a picnic table. Some had fire rings, although there was a burn ban due to the Dragon Bravo Fire at the north rim.

    We set up and had a very peaceful sleep. It got a lot cooler in the evening into morning. The morning was slow, which never happens. We sat around listening to nature come alive for the day while we made breakfast and charged our battery packs.

    All in all, highly recommend this spot. My Honda odyssey did great getting back there. There are no facilities and no hook ups.

Guide to North Rim

Tent camping near North Rim, Arizona offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of the Grand Canyon, with various campgrounds providing essential amenities and breathtaking views.

Some prices for tent camping range from $10 to $30

  • The Bright Angel Campground requires a permit costing $10, with an additional $8 per person, making it an affordable option for those looking to camp at the canyon's base.
  • At Cottonwood Campground, you can enjoy a well-maintained site with seasonal running water, all for a reasonable fee, ensuring a comfortable stay.
  • Havasupai Gardens Campground offers a beautiful setting with amenities like picnic tables and toilets, making it a great choice for $10 per night.

Tips for tent camping near North Rim

  • Be sure to secure a permit in advance for popular spots like Bright Angel Campground, as they can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
  • Pack plenty of water and snacks, especially if you're hiking to remote sites like Granite Rapids, where water sources are limited.
  • Consider visiting Phantom Ranch for a unique experience; it offers meals and a store, making it easier to replenish supplies during your stay.

Local attractions and activities

  • Hiking enthusiasts will love the trails leading to Havasupai Gardens Campground, which provide stunning views and access to the Colorado River.
  • Wildlife watchers can enjoy spotting deer and other animals around Cottonwood Campground, where the natural surroundings create a serene atmosphere.
  • For those seeking adventure, the Hermit Rapids area is perfect for rafting and experiencing the power of the Colorado River up close.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near North Rim, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near North Rim, AZ is Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed with a 4.8-star rating from 120 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near North Rim, AZ?

TheDyrt.com has all 23 tent camping locations near North Rim, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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