The Grand Canyon is one of America’s most breathtaking national parks, and exploring it by RV is an unforgettable experience. Whether you want to stay inside the park with full hookups, dry camp under the stars, or find a spot near the quieter East Entrance, this guide covers all the best RV camping options.

RV Camping Inside Grand Canyon National Park

1. Mather Campground (South Rim) – Best for Year-Round Dry Camping

📍 Location: Near Grand Canyon Village
🚐 RV Size Limit: Up to 30 feet
⚡ Hookups: None (dry camping)
📅 Open: Year-round
🔗 Reservations: Required (book on recreation.gov)

Mather Campground is the most popular in-park option for RVers who don’t need hookups. It’s close to Grand Canyon Village, making it easy to access shuttle buses, restaurants, and scenic overlooks. The sites are shaded, and amenities include restrooms, drinking water, and dump stations.

Pro Tip: Book early—this campground fills up fast, especially in summer!

2. Trailer Village (South Rim) – Best for Full Hookups

📍 Location: Adjacent to Mather Campground
🚐 RV Size Limit: Up to 50 feet
⚡ Hookups: Water, electric, sewer
📅 Open: Year-round
🔗 Reservations: Recommended (book at rvgrandcanyon.com)

If you want full RV hookups inside the park, Trailer Village is your best bet. It’s the only in-park campground with sewer connections, making it ideal for larger rigs. The location is perfect for exploring the South Rim without sacrificing comfort.

3. Desert View Campground (Near East Entrance) – Best for a Quieter Experience

📍 Location: 25 miles east of Grand Canyon Village
🚐 RV Size Limit: Up to 30 feet
⚡ Hookups: None (dry camping)
📅 Open: April–October (first-come, first-served)

Desert View is a hidden gem near the East Entrance, offering a more remote and peaceful camping experience. Since it’s first-come, first-served, arrive early to snag a spot. The nearby Desert View Watchtower provides one of the best sunset views in the park!

Note: No showers or dump stations here—come prepared.

4. North Rim Campground – Best for Cooler Weather & Seclusion

📍 Location: North Rim (closed in winter)
🚐 RV Size Limit: Up to 40 feet
⚡ Hookups: None (dry camping)
📅 Open: May 15–October 15
🔗 Reservations: Required

The North Rim is far less crowded than the South Rim, with cooler temperatures and stunning views. The campground is surrounded by pine forests, offering a completely different Grand Canyon experience.

Free & Cheap Dry Camping Near the East Entrance

If you’re looking for dispersed camping just outside the park, these spots are great for boondocking:

1. Kaibab National Forest (Dispered Camping)

📍 Location: Near Desert View/East Entrance
🚐 RV Size Limit: Varies (some areas accessible for big rigs)
⚡ Hookups: None
💰 Cost: Free
📅 Best Time: Spring–Fall

The Kaibab National Forest allows free dispersed camping just outside the park boundary. You’ll need to be self-sufficient (no water, toilets, or trash services), but the solitude and starry skies are worth it.

How to Find Spots: Look for pull-offs along Forest Road 302 or 310.

2. Cameron Trading Post RV Park (Nearby Hookup Option)

📍 Location: 30 miles east of the East Entrance (Highway 89)
🚐 RV Size Limit: Up to 50 feet
⚡ Hookups: Full (water, electric, sewer)
🛁 Amenities: Showers, laundry, gift shop
💰 Cost: $40–$60/night

If you need hookups near the East Entrance, Cameron Trading Post is a great stopover. It’s a historic site with a restaurant, trading post, and easy access to the Little Colorado River Gorge.

Final Tips for RV Camping at the Grand Canyon

✅ Book Early: In-park campgrounds fill up months in advance.
✅ Check Road Conditions: Some forest roads near the East Entrance are rough.
✅ Pack Water & Supplies: Desert View and dispersed camping have no services.
✅ Arrive Early for First-Come, First-Served Sites.

Whether you want full hookups, a quiet forest retreat, or a free boondocking spot, the Grand Canyon has RV options for every traveler. Plan ahead, and enjoy one of the most epic camping destinations in the U.S.!

Have you camped at the Grand Canyon in an RV? Share your tips in the comments! 🚐🏜️