North Rim Campground

Camping at the Grand Canyon North Rim is more popular than we imagined. We had waltzed into the South Rim and found a spot even after sunset but were not so lucky on the North Rim. To be fair, it was over a month later when we arrived. The campground was very much full but we got a good tip at the entrance station from the ranger stationed there.. She told us it was legal to camp anywhere on the side of the road just outside of the entrance booth. So, we went in to watch the sunset and have something to eat, returning later in the evening to set up our tent. It was very handy as driving back out of the park would have taken a long time and all the other campgrounds were out that way. It would have been doubly a hassle as we wanted to do a hike then next morning.

Unique Quality: It was a bit strange but once the traffic after sunset died down, it was a nice quiet spot even with heaps of deer mulling around. It did however get VERY cold that night even though it was early June. We woke up and the entire tent was frozen. We forgot that the North Rim of the Grand Canyon is quite a bit higher than the South Rim, hence it's opening quite a bit later in the season.

Directions: Just outside the park boundary, ask ranger's for where it's legal.

If you're staying on the North Rim, you can either stay in the Lodge (expensive) or camp (cheaper, but expensive for camping). There is a well-stocked camp store on-site, but of course you'll have to bring your bags and tent. It's a good idea to book your site far in advance, as spots fill up quickly.

Unique Quality: We paid a little extra for a "rim" site - just on the other side of the trail from the edge! Don't roll over! The first morning we woke up to the sound of deer walking right next to our tent. Much better than the sound of the campers next to us who played their truck radio all night!

When reserving a campsite at the North Rim Campground, request a "PRIME SITE". These are the ones with views of the Canyon from your campsite. There are only 5 of these, so they are a little hard to get. But it never hurts to try! Site #11 has a nice view, & is good for RV's under 27'. #16 has the best view from your tent. You can now reserve a specific site when making your reservation. THE PRIME SITES ARE #'s 11, 14, 15, 16, + 18.

Unique Quality: Great views of Grand Canyon!