Grand Canyon RV Parks

 

grand canyon rv parks

The Grand Canyon is one of the most impressive landscapes in the world. Formed by the erosive powers of the Colorado River over millions of years, the Grand Canyon stretches for 277 miles through northern Arizona. At some points, the canyon is a mile deep and 18 miles across. It is truly a wonder to behold.

 

Last year, 6 million people traveled to Grand Canyon National Park to peer over the edge of the canyon and see the sparkling green waters of the Colorado River far below. Many visitors make a day trip on their vehicles from cities such as Phoenix, Arizona, or Las Vegas, Nevada, but some people—the lucky ones—set up camp and enjoy all the Grand Canyon has to offer.

 

Traveling to the Grand Canyon is one of the best RV trips in the west. In addition to spectacular RV camping and dining, the Grand Canyon has activities for recreation for every age and ability like hiking on its many scenic trails, for example. Whether you’re looking for a fun family adventure or a romantic weekend away, you’ll make lasting memories in an RV camping near the Grand Canyon.

 

About Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park was created in 1919, just three years after the creation of the National Park Service. Though the canyon stretches beyond the boundaries of the national park, the park’s South Rim and North Rim are the best places to get up close and personal views of the Grand Canyon.


The South Rim, located in North Williams, Arizona, is the most popular destination in Grand Canyon National Park. The South Rim consists of Grand Canyon Village: a bustling small town filled with shops, restaurants, and accommodations. Grand Canyon Village is also home to the Grand Canyon Visitor Center and an ideal point to join
one of the South Rim shuttle buses.


Though located just across the Grand Canyon from the South Rim, the park’s North Rim is a world away. The North Rim takes longer to get to, is accessible only during the summer, and is much quieter than the South Rim. If you’re looking to get away from it all, unplug, and relax in the shade of pine trees as the canyon drops away at your feet, RV travel to the North Rim may be for you.

 

Which Rim of the Grand Canyon is Best?

The North and South Rim of the Grand Canyon both have a lot to offer. If you’re trying to decide which  location or area is right for you, keep reading to learn more about the pros and cons of each rim.


Where to Camp on the South Rim

Staying on the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park puts you right in the middle of the action. Families in particular will enjoy access to all of the Grand Canyon Village attractions at one of these Grand Canyon RV Parks.


Trailer Village

Trailer Village is an RV campground near the Grand Canyon that features full hookups (water, sewer, and electric) for RVs. Trailer Village offers pull-through sites for RVs up to 50 feet in length. You’ll appreciate how close you are in the canyon rim—not to mention the ability to run your RV’s air conditioner on a hot summer day. The Grand Canyon, after all, is in the desert! Trailer Village is open year-round and sites sell out quickly during the spring, summer, and fall. Be sure to book well in advance.


Mather Campground

For a more rustic experience, check out nearby Mather Campground, run by the National Park Service. This campground is tucked into the trees and provides nicely shaded sites for RVs up to 30 feet long. You won’t find any hookups at Mather Campground, so be prepared for RV camping off-the-grid. With the exception of Pine Loop, generators are allowed.


Grand Canyon Railway RV Park

Looking for RV parks near the Grand Canyon, but don’t mind a little commute? Then make a reservation at the Grand Canyon Railway RV Park. This well-run park in Williams is clean, within walking distance to a brewery, and RV guests have access to the nearby hotel’s pool and hot tub. In terms of RV spaces, Grand Canyon Railway RV Park offers three types; buddy RV spaces, pull-through sites, and back-ins.


Where to Camp on the North Rim

Camping on the North Rim opens each year in May. The quiet North Rim Campground can accommodate RVs up to 30 feet long, and the spacious sites provide privacy from your neighbors. There are no hookups at the North Rim Campground, but there are bathrooms with running water. A small general store nearby allows you to stock up on marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers for s’mores at your campfire.

 

FAQs – Grand Canyon RV Parks

Still have more questions about RV camping near the Grand Canyon? Here are some FAQs that may help answer your questions:

 

Which rim of the Grand Canyon is the best?

The best rim of the Grand Canyon depends on your situation. If you’re looking for a quieter, more removed location or place to camp, the North Rim is probably best for you. In contrast, if you want to be right in the middle of the main attractions of Grand Canyon Village, the South Rim is your best bet.

 

How much does it cost to camp at the Grand Canyon?

The cost of camping at the Grand Canyon varies according to where you make reservations. Most campsites are $10-15 per night, and some are as much as $40 per night for group sites. There also many be additional costs to add extra people to the campsite.

 

Can you camp in the Grand Canyon?

Looking to get out of the official campsites and into the canyon itself? You can also camp outside of developed campgrounds in the Inner Canyon if you have a backcountry permit.

 

Can you park an RV at the Grand Canyon?

You can park an RV at the Grand Canyon, as long as you have a camping reservation. Trailer Village in the South Rim is the only campsite with RV hook-ups.

 

Where can I shower at the Grand Canyon?

You can find showers at the Camping Services building in the Grand Canyon, found at Mather Campground at Grand Canyon Village. There are also showers on the access road leading to the North Rim Campground.

 

Can I camp anywhere in Grand Canyon?

Camping is allowed at designated campsites within the Grand Canyon, along the North and South Rim. If you want to camp outside of these designated campsites, you must obtain a backcountry camping permit from the Backcountry Information Center.

 

Top Campsites at the Grand Canyon

Wondering where the best places to camp are at the Grand Canyon? Here is a list of the top campsites and other places to stay, both in and out of the park:

 

In-Park Lodging

Out-Of-Park Lodging

 

Enjoy Your Trip!

Whether you visit South Rim and North Rim, an RV trip at the Grand Canyon will give you a front-row seat to this natural wonder without sacrificing any creature comforts. A trip to the Grand Canyon will generate memories that you’ll cherish for years to come. And if you don’t have an RV to enjoy yet, consider getting one of the best RV loans in the industry.