One of the most popular vacation destinations in the U.S. is the Grand Canyon—easily the most recognizable landmark in Arizona, and possibly in the whole U.S. It covers 277 linear miles and is considered a natural "wonder of the world". As one of the largest attractions in the U.S., this incredible landscape includes the Grand Canyon Skywalk, Havasu Falls, Point Imperial, multiple waterfalls, and opportunities to river raft on the Colorado River.
Many people who visit wish for an immersive experience at the Canyon. One of our friends, for example, hiked down to the valley and back up the other side in 2016. For most, however, staying a few nights in one of the local campgrounds is a better fit. Fortunately, there are several options—with a range of amenities—from which to choose.
Grand Canyon Village NPS Mather Campground
The largest is Mather Campground. It's one of the only ones that is open year-round. Prospective visitors should note that reservations are strongly encouraged from March to November, as during the peak season the campground's 317 sites are usually full by noon. There are no hook-ups at Mather. However, there are laundry facilities, restrooms, showers, and a dump station to make camping more convenient.
NPS Desert View Campground
Dessert View is a dry campground located about 23-miles east of the South Rim. There are 50 campsites, but they generally all fill by 2pm each day. Dessert View Campground doesn't take reservations and visits are restricted to 7-day periods or shorter. Each campsite accommodates RVs with a maximum length of 30-feet and has a fire ring and a picnic table. The campground offers no utilities, hook-ups, or showers, but there are a couple of cold-water faucets, as well as men's and women's restrooms.
Ten-X Campground
Located in the Kaibab National Forest about 4.5-miles from the south entrance to the South Rim, this rustic campground is the least expensive option. It offers no hook-ups or showers, but has cold water faucets throughout the park. Ten-X is open from May through mid-October on a first come; first served basis.
Trailer Village RV Park
Located about a mile from the South Rim, Trailer Village is the only full hook-up campground at the Grand Canyon. It even provides cable television for those wanting some easy entertainment after a day of hiking the Canyon. The campground has paved sites that accommodate RVs up to 50-feet in length.
In Conclusion
There are many lookout areas along the walkway and road on the South Rim from which you can see the beautiful canyon, and the equally fabulous North Rim offers you a completely different experience. If you want a closer look, you can ride a burro into the canyon or hike it like our friend did. You can stay at the Trailer Village RV Park with full hook-ups or enjoy a more rustic camping experience at one of the others, but whatever your trip entails, you're sure to remember the Grand Canyon.