Camping at North Rim Campground

Overview of North Rim Campground

The North Rim Campground in Grand Canyon National Park offers visitors a more secluded experience compared to the South Rim. It's located at an elevation of approximately 8,200 feet, surrounded by a pleasant alpine forest. The North Rim is generally open from May 15th through October 15th each year, but these dates can vary depending on weather conditions.

Reservations and Permits

Reservations for North Rim Campground are highly recommended due to the limited number of campsites and the remote location of the campground. Reservations can be made through the National Recreation Reservation Service by phone or online up to 6 months in advance. You'll need a permit for backcountry camping if you plan to camp outside designated campgrounds like the North Rim Campground.

Campsite Information

• Campsites: There are around 90 tent and RV campsites, some with mixed-use.
• Amenities: Campsites usually include a picnic table, fire ring with a cooking grate, and access to restrooms and drinking water.
• Hookups: There are no hook-ups for RVs, but a dump station is available seasonally.
• Generator Use: The use of generators is typically restricted to certain hours.

Facilities and Services

• Restrooms: Flush toilets and sinks are available, but there are no showers onsite.
• Food Storage: Bear-proof storage boxes are available at each site for food and scented items because the area is home to wildlife including bears.
• Services: A general store, gas station, and laundry facilities are available within a short drive of the campground.
• Accessibility: Some sites are designed to be accessible for people with disabilities.

Activities

• Hiking: Trails such as the Transept Trail connect directly with the campground, and there are numerous other trails for day hiking or backpacking.
• Ranger Programs: Check the visitor center for ranger-led programs and informative talks.
• Scenic Views: Many viewpoints offer breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon, like Point Imperial and Cape Royal.

Safety and Regulations

• Wildlife: Feeding wildlife is prohibited for both your safety and the animals'.
• Campfires: Fires are permitted only in designated fire rings or grills and subject to fire danger restrictions.
• Weather: Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions and understand that high altitude may affect health.
• Quiet Hours: Typically, quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Getting There

The North Rim Campground is more remote and less accessible than the South Rim. The nearest cities with commercial airports are Flagstaff, Arizona, and Las Vegas, Nevada. From there, you can drive to the North Rim via Highway 67, keeping in mind that the last 45 miles of this route are closed during winter due to snow.

Important Tips

• Reservations: Make sure you reserve your campsite well in advance.
• Preparation: Be ready for self-sufficiency, as resources and services are limited.
• Gas: Fill your tank before you arrive, as the nearest gas station is 45 miles away.
• Altitude: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated due to the high elevation.

Always be sure to check the latest information from the National Park Service before planning your visit to the North Rim Campground, as conditions and regulations can change.