Wednesday 14 May 2014

Camping At Grand Canyon National Park Arizona

Grand Canyon National Park encompasses canyons, river tributaries, and surrounding grounds. The Grand Canyon is situated in Arizona's northwestern quadrant. With five million visitors making the trip to the canyon each year, Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. In addition, the park has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979.

The Grand Canyon Park had a long and arduous road to becoming a national park, beginning in the 1880's with several failed congressional bills. After making multiple visits to the area, Theodore Roosevelt declared the Grand Canyon a National Monument in 1908. The bill to grant national park status to the area was passed in 1919 and signed by then-President Woodrow Wilson.                
           

Despite having more than million annual visitors, Grand Canyon National Park has only four campgrounds in its developed areas. These campgrounds frequently fill up during high season. By calling 800-365-2267, you can make reservations at the two largest ones Mather and North Rim—both of which are located near showers, laundry facilities, and stores. These campgrounds, and the first-come, first-served Desert View Campground (located on the South Rim near the Desert View Overlook), all offer comfortable tent camping, fire pits, and at least partial shade. There's also an RV-only campground, Trailer Village (303-297-2757), on the South Rim.

The South Rim is the more accessible part of the park, with many opportunities to see the Canyon from the comfort of your car. 90% of visitors only visit the South Rim. Along the Rim there is the Grand Canyon Village which is the center of activity and the transportation hub of the South Rim. It is the only spot where the railroad reaches the Canyon. Grand Canyon Village also has a historic district which was primarily built by Santa Fe railroad workers in the first half of the 20th century. All along the Grand Canyon Village, there are museums, areas to view the Canyon, and a free shuttle service.

Mather Campground is the only place for tent campers to stay in the Grand Canyon village.  This large campground also has space for small RV's, but hook-ups are not available.  The South Rim shuttle system comes right to the campground, and Market Plaza as well as laundry and shower facilities are within walking distance.  This is also a very busy campground so advanced reservations are advised. Pets are allowed, but must be leashed at all times, and may not be left unattended. Wood and charcoal fires are only permitted in provided campsite grills. No gathering of down wood - wood may be purchased at the general store.

The North Rim campground is a tent campsite located in the North Rim village.  This is your only option for a drive-in campground in the North Rim village area.  Sites can be booked via an advanced reservation system, and for those don't make a reservation you will usually find all the sites full. Pets are allowed, but must be leashed at all times, and may not be left unattended. Wood and charcoal fires are only permitted in provided campsite grills. No gathering of down wood - wood may be purchased at the general store. Coin operated laundry and showers are located at the entrance to the campground. Accessible campsites and restrooms are available.


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