SLEEP IN THE HEART OF THE CANYON
NORTH RIM
Sleeping within the canyon itself is an experience you'll never forget, whether it's under canvas or the comfort of a lodge, the stillness, the stars, the smells will leave an indelible impression. Less populated than the South Rim, it is home to abundant wildlife, hiking trails, and unparalleled views of the Canyon. Spend a night at Cottonwood Campground or at the North Rim campground for an authentic experience off the beaten track.
to visit the National Park Service website where you'll find recent updates, maps and contact details for reservations at the North Rim Campground.
COTTONWOOD CAMPGROUND (CC)
Located on the North Kaibab trail halfway between the North Rim and the Colorado River, the Cottonwood Campground receives fewer visitors than the campgrounds below the South Rim. The North Rim only gets about 10% of the visitors of the South Rim. It’s more basic than the Bright Angel and Indian Garden campgrounds and campers tend to be more ‘backpacker types’ and well prepared. Cottonwood is usually not manned full time but there is an emergency phone located outside the ranger station. Water is not guaranteed so take water treatment tablets as the water in Bright Angel Creek flows all year round. Oh and one more thing... don’t forget to take an extra toilet roll.
Name: Cottonwood Campground
Location: halfway between the North Rim and the Colorado River.
Distance: 6.8 miles/10.9 km from the North Kaibab trailhead
Elevation: 4080 ft /1244 m
Number of sites: 11 small group site accommodating 1 – 6 people and 1 large site for a group of 7 – 11 people.
Facilities: Bulletin board and water faucet with treated water is located near the composting toilets, treated water is only available during the non-freezing season.
Water stations:
How to get there: From North Kaibab trailhead
Permit required: Back Country office permit required
Price: from $3.50 (standard campsite winter rate) to $14.00 (standard campsite summer rate)
Pets: dogs are allowed if they are kept on a leash
NORTH RIM CAMPGROUND
The North Rim campground is located on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. It is less populated than the South Rim and is home to abundant wildlife, hiking trails, and unparalleled views of the Canyon. The North Rim lies on the Kaibab Plateau, an area that has been uplifted by geologic movements, making it higher in elevation. Although there is no view of the Colorado River from here, you can see layers of rock displaying millions of years of geologic history. Many species of wildlife live here, including the tassel-eared Kaibab squirrel which is unique to this habitat.
There may still be snow on the ground when the campground opens in mid-May; likewise, it may snow before the last reservation day in mid-October. Because of this variability, you should come prepared for any weather.
Name: North Rim Campground
Location: One mile North of the Grand Canyon Lodge
Distance: The campground is located about 11.5 miles from the entrance station
Elevation: 8,200 ft (2499 m)
Number of sites: 90
Facilities: picnic table and campfire rings with cooking grills at each campsite, drinking water throughout campsite. Coin-operated showers and laundry will not be available this season 2020 due to the Covid19 pandemic. Due to fire restrictions campfires are currently prohibited.
Water stations:
How to get there: Highway 67 is the only road into and out of the North Rim. From State Highway 89A, take Highway 67 south for 30 miles to the park entrance.
When to go: Open all year round but best from May 15 to October 15
Permit required: No
Price: from $18 (tent only nonelectric) to $14.00 (group tent only nonelectric)
Pets: Pets are only allowed on the Bridle Path and are allowed at North Rim Campground if they are kept on a leash
Is there anywhere to camp for free in the Grand Canyon?
If you like camping freestyle or want to save on your budget, The Kaibab National Forest surrounds the South Rim of the Grand Canyon and you can camp there for free.