Camping in Grand Canyon, AZ
20 campgrounds · 3 areas · Best April through October (South Rim), May through October (North Rim)
Camping at the Grand Canyon offers a front-row seat to one of Earth's most spectacular natural wonders. From developed rim campgrounds where you can watch the sunset paint the canyon walls to backcountry sites thousands of feet below the rim, the Grand Canyon delivers a camping experience that ranges from comfortable to truly epic.
Why Camp in Grand Canyon
- ✓Wake up to sunrise over one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World
- ✓Backcountry camping on the canyon floor along Bright Angel Creek
- ✓South Rim campgrounds open year-round with stunning canyon views
- ✓North Rim camping offers cooler temperatures and far fewer crowds
Where to Camp in Grand Canyon
South Rim
Ponderosa pine forest, desert plateauMather Campground is the main developed campground with 327 sites in a ponderosa pine forest. Desert View Campground on the east end is first-come, first-served and less crowded. Both offer easy access to rim trails and shuttle buses.
North Rim
Mixed conifer forest, high plateauNorth Rim Campground offers a cooler, quieter alternative at 8,200 feet elevation. Open mid-May through mid-October, it provides access to some of the canyon's most dramatic viewpoints including Bright Angel Point.
Inner Canyon (Backcountry)
Desert canyon floor, riversidePhantom Ranch and Bright Angel Campground sit at the canyon bottom along the Colorado River. Reaching them requires a strenuous hike or mule ride. Permits are required and highly competitive — apply 4 months in advance.
Top Campgrounds
North Rim Campground (AZ)
Arizona · 7.7 mi
Desert View Campground
Arizona · 16.9 mi
Trailer Village RV Park - South Rim
Arizona · 3.7 mi
Hull Cabin
Arizona · 13.4 mi
Mather Campground
Arizona · 4.0 mi
Jacob Lake Recreation Area
Arizona · 41.3 mi
Tusayan - Montane
Arizona · 11.8 mi
Big Springs Cabin Site
Arizona · 36.6 mi
Local Tips for Grand Canyon
- 1.South Rim Mather Campground reservations open 6 months in advance. Book immediately for summer and holiday dates.
- 2.Inner canyon backcountry permits are distributed via a lottery system. Apply through the NPS Backcountry Information Center.
- 3.The South Rim is at 7,000 feet. Summer days are hot but nights are cool. The inner canyon can exceed 110°F in summer — plan accordingly.
- 4.Bring plenty of water. The dry desert air causes rapid dehydration, especially at elevation.
- 5.The North Rim is only accessible from mid-May to mid-October. Highway 67 closes for winter.
Activities
Experience Levels
Gear for Grand Canyon
Make sure you have the right equipment for camping in Grand Canyon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I camp on the rim of the Grand Canyon?
Developed campgrounds are set back from the rim in forested areas, but short walks to viewpoints are available from most campgrounds. Backcountry camping directly on the rim requires a permit and is only allowed at designated sites.
How do I get a backcountry camping permit for the Grand Canyon?
Apply through the NPS Backcountry Information Center. Earliest requests are accepted 4 months before the first month of your trip. Popular corridors like Bright Angel fill quickly. A non-refundable $10 application fee plus $8 per person per night applies.
Is the North Rim or South Rim better for camping?
The South Rim is more accessible with year-round camping, more amenities, and shuttle services. The North Rim is higher, cooler, less crowded, and offers a more intimate wilderness experience. Both are excellent choices.
Are there showers at Grand Canyon campgrounds?
Mather Campground on the South Rim has nearby coin-operated showers at the Camper Services building. The North Rim campground has a shower facility. Inner canyon camping at Phantom Ranch has seasonal shower access.
