🏕 Campground
North Rim Campground (Grand Canyon)
About This Permit
The Grand Canyon North Rim sits 8,000 feet above sea level and receives only 10% of South Rim visitation despite comparable canyon views. NOTE: The North Rim was severely damaged by the Dragon Bravo Fire in July 2025, which also destroyed the historic Grand Canyon Lodge. The campground and North Rim area remain closed for 2025; 2026 reopening status is uncertain. Its short season (normally mid-May through mid-October) and the 215-mile drive between rims make it genuinely less crowded than South Rim facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the North Rim so much less visited than the South Rim?
The rims are 10 miles apart as the crow flies but 215 miles by road. The North Rim also closes mid-October through mid-May due to snow on Hwy 67. For those making the drive, the solitude is dramatic compared to the South Rim.
What are the best viewpoints from the North Rim?
Bright Angel Point (0.5-mile walk from the Lodge) is the classic overlook. Cape Royal (a 23-mile scenic drive) offers the most expansive canyon view. Point Imperial — the highest point on either rim — is a 5-mile drive.
Can I hike to the Colorado River from the North Rim?
Yes — the North Kaibab Trail descends 14 miles to the river. It's one of the most strenuous hikes in the park; the NPS recommends no more than 6 miles per day in summer heat. Separate backcountry permits are required for overnight inner canyon camping.
Key Facts
- State
- AZ
- Season
- ⚠️ CLOSED: North Rim Campground was closed for the entire 2025 season due to the Dragon Bravo Fire (July 2025). 2026 season status is uncertain pending fire damage assessment. Verify at recreation.gov before planning.
- Sites
- Approximately 87–93 sites (tent and RV) when open
- Access
- North Rim Village via Hwy 67 from Jacob Lake, AZ
- Reservation Window
- ⚠️ No reservations are being accepted for 2026 pending fire damage assessment. Check recreation.gov for updates.
- Difficulty to reserve
- 3/5(Competitive)
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