Tent camping near Supai, Arizona requires significant preparation due to the desert climate and remote location. The Kaibab National Forest surrounding the Grand Canyon offers multiple dispersed and established sites with elevations ranging from 2,000 feet at the canyon floor to over 8,000 feet on the rims. Temperature differentials between these elevations can exceed 30°F in a single day, requiring campers to pack for both hot days and cold nights.
What to do
Explore backcountry waterfalls: Tapeats Creek area provides access to Thunder River, one of the few rivers that flow uphill due to the intense pressure from its source. Most require backcountry permits from Grand Canyon National Park.
Day hike to canyon viewpoints: From Indian Hollow Campground, take the half-mile trek to the rim of the Grand Canyon. "There's a hike 1/2 mile down from the camp with epic views of the Grand Canyon. Highly recommend," notes camper Niki S.
Stargaze from remote sites: The lack of light pollution makes the night sky exceptional. A camper at Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed commented, "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. We had a huge bull elk with his cows walk right past our camp."
Visit Phantom Ranch: Located near Bright Angel Campground, the ranch has a canteen that sells snacks and beverages. As one visitor said, "The daily Ranger talks are interesting and informational. Plan early and reserve a campsite at Bright Angel Camp."
What campers like
Natural swimming opportunities: The creek running through Havasupai Reservation Campground offers relief from heat. "After the 10+ mile hike-in, it was awesome to see the campsites right by the Havasupai falls as well as Mooney Falls. The site had a lot of squirrels, so bring rat sacks because squirrels will eat everything," warns Joffrey H.
Secluded camping spots: Many tent campers prefer the solitude of less-visited areas. "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," reports Hugh M. about dispersed camping.
Wildlife encounters: Natural areas support diverse wildlife. At Havasupai Gardens Campground, "The area is absolutely gorgeous and frequented by lots of deer. It's a quick trek out to a stunning view of the colorado river and to get a unique perspective of the canyon," notes Shelagh R.
Fresh water access: Many campgrounds have natural springs. "There are facilities with fresh water within walking distance of the campgrounds (some are closer than others). Cool at night and plenty of shade during the day," reports Bentz E. about Havasupai.
What you should know
Reservations system: Campsite availability is extremely limited. "New this year, you can use their online booking site to secure a spot. It is both stressful and exciting. Once you have a spot secured you can begin dreaming about the blue waters," explains Anthony P.
Wildlife precautions: Animals can be persistent around campsites. "There are raccoons. I'd read so much about the crazy squirrels who would invade your camp and eat all your food... and we took precautions against them- but nobody ever mentioned the RACCOONS who literally ate all of our food one night -- even though it was in a bucket with a lid," warns Stephanie Z. at Havasupai.
Road conditions: Many sites require high-clearance vehicles. A visitor to Saddle Canyon Outlook North Rim Dispersed warns, "Do not try FR610 unless you have a crazy Bronco or Range Rover or Hummer! I damn near got stuck all night there and just made it back because there are no turnaround points, especially for anything over 22 ft."
Trail markings: Some areas lack clear signage. One camper noted, "None of the trails are marked, miles of hiking, lots of side trails your asked not to hike on, yet NONE of the trails are marked. Most of the falls are not marked either. No signs, no trail markers, no idea how far you've gone or have to go."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: For tent camping with children in Supai, consider established campgrounds. "The campsites each have tent spots and covered picnic tables. There are pit toilets and running water available," notes Mara F. about Havasupai Gardens.
Pack extra food protection: Wildlife can be persistent. "Bring rat sacks because squirrels will eat everything. Also, make sure to keep food outside of the tents because of the squirrels," advises Joffrey H.
Check weather before trips: Flash floods can occur quickly. "Take a tarp. The weather can change in a split second in the canyon. I packed one at the last minute and it was THE BEST THING EVER," says Stephanie Z.
Plan for extreme temperature shifts: Days can be hot while nights get cold. "If you're heading there in the cooler months, come prepared with the right layers, don't pull apart the native vegetation because you didn't come prepared for the temperature," advises Lyssa M. at Bright Angel Campground.
Tips from RVers
Use dispersed sites for larger vehicles: Forest Service roads offer free camping options. "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. Closest free camping to the entrance of the grand canyon," notes Cole P.
Arrive early for rim access: Traffic can be heavy near park entrances. "If you stay here on the weekends and plan to go to the park, get up early. The lines are insane!" warns Ethan B. about Forest Service Road 328.
Check road conditions: Many dispersed camping roads become impassable in wet weather. As Wally B. notes, "Road was a little bumpy and not suggested for passenger cars! Perfect spot!"
Consider boondocking options: Free camping is available outside park boundaries. "Been here couple days now. Plenty of room and other campers around. Feel isolated but not totally alone. Fire pits around as well. 10 minutes outside the park," shares Nicole K.
