One of The Seven Natural Wonders of The World
"The wonders of the Grand Canyon cannot be adequately represented in symbols of speech, nor by speech itself."
Without a doubt, Grand Canyon National Park should be at the top of any outdoor enthusiast's bucket list. Nothing can compare to the sheer magnitude of its vista views, dramatic desert sunsets, or shimmering red rock layers displaying millions of years of geographical history.
The Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic features in all of North America and draws millions of explorers to its walls annually. Upon seeing this astonishing landscape, it's easy to see why the Grand Canyon is one of the seven natural wonders of the world.
Located approximately 17.5 hours (~1,100 miles) southeast of Bend, Grand Canyon National Park is the ideal road trip destination for any Oregonian wishing to experience the rich splendor of the West.
We at Happy Campers RV Rentals are deeply passionate about the open road, and our dream is to inspire people to get out and experience what no other form of travel can offer. Dive further into the hidden treasures of our beautiful country and send yourself on a journey you will never forget!
Five Fun Facts About Grand Canyon National Park
- Prehistoric Peculiarity: No dinosaur bones have ever been discovered in the Grand Canyon. This is believed to be because the walls of the Grand Canyon themselves are roughly one billion years older than the first dinosaurs, though the majority of the canyon didn't take shape until after their extinction.
- The Sheer Size: The Grand Canyon is approximately 1,904 square miles, measuring a mile deep, 18 miles wide, and 277 miles long. This makes the Grand Canyon bigger than the entire state of Rhode Island, which is 1,212 square miles.
- Second Most Visited National Park: The Grand Canyon was established as a national park in 1926 and attracted 37,745 visitors in its first year. In 2017, the park attracted 6.2 million visitors, making it the second most visited national park in the United States.
- Always Changing: Erosion has been carving the Grand Canyon for 3-6 billion years, and the Colorado River is still slowly changing the landscape of this national park.
- Canyon Town: The town of Supai Village is located at the base of the canyon within the Havasupai Indian Reservation. With a population of 208, it is the most remote community in the lower 48 states and the only location where mail is still delivered by pack mule.
Grand Canyon National Park Covid-19 Travel Restrictions
Traveling across the United States during these uncertain times is understandingly intimidating. On the other hand, feeling trapped at home is understandably frustrating.
The key resides in finding the balance between the two, by discovering the appropriate way to road trip across the country while keeping yourself and your loved ones safe.
Finding that balance is where we come in. Happy Campers RV Rentals wants you to be able to take that road trip free of any anxiety. Read ahead for our researched travel advisories every road tripper should know before taking off for Grand Canyon National Park!
Park Entry Requirements
Grand Canyon National Park requires an entrance fee for all visitors. This fee is paid at the entrance when approaching the park, or by purchasing a pass in advance from third-party vendors such as Recreation.gov or YourPassNow.
Grand Canyon National Park Covid-19 Regulations
What to expect when visiting the park:
- The Center for Disease Control requires visitors to wear a mask or face covering for those who are not fully vaccinated:
- Inside any shared space
- Outside if you cannot physically distance by maintaining a minimum of 6 feet apart
- Due to the pandemic, additional public health measures are in place including capacity limits, temporary closures, and modified operations
- View the list of all operating/closed operations
Navajo Nation Covid-19 Regulations
What to expect when traveling through Navajo Nation:
- When driving through Navajo Nation, all roads other than state and federal highways will be closed to non-residential traffic
- Mask wearing is required at all locations on the Nation
- Navajo Nation Tribal Parks remain closed to visitors:
- Antelope Canyon
- Lake Powell Navajo Tribal Park
- Marble Canyon
- Cose Mine Canyon
- Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
- Four Corners Monument
- Little Colorado River Gorge
It is more important than ever to be a well-informed traveler and to be fully aware of any regulations regarding your destination. That being said, we can't think of a better place to spend your vacation!
Helpful Travel Links:
The Top 5 RV Campgrounds Near Grand Canyon National Park
Imagine driving over the horizon, surrounded by friends and family, and coming down the road to be greeted by one of the most iconic natural wonders of the world. You see the sign pointing visitors towards Grand Canyon National Park.
You know you have a week of exploration and fresh air in front of you, and the best part is that once you park, you'll have your very own home base for the duration of your vacation.
RV camping lends itself to those adventurers who yearn to immerse themselves into a fuller outdoor experience during their travels. It is for the individuals who long for the perfect middle ground between pitching a tent and booking a cozy cabin.
When your travel vehicle has all of the comfort and amenities of home, anywhere in the United States can suddenly become your new morning view.
Finding Your Perfect Campsite
Happy Campers RV Rentals wants to help travelers find the most ideal home-away-from-home locations while visiting the Grand Canyon. We've researched the closest and most beautiful RV parks in the vicinity to bring you a list of the Top 5 RV Campsites Near Grand Canyon National Park!
Read ahead to discover the highlights of each carefully selected location, including dump stations, full hookup spots, pet-friendly RV parks and campgrounds, and more! Whether you're traveling in a compact Class C motorhome or a spacious Class A RV, you'll find the perfect spot.
Now sit back, relax, and discover the best RV camping near the Grand Canyon.
1. Railside RV Ranch
Google Reviews: 542 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7/5
- Phone: (928) 635-4077
- Location: 877 E Rodeo Rd, Williams, AZ 86046
- Price:
- 30 amp - $54 daily
- 30 amp - $301 weekly
- 50 amp - $57 daily
- 50 amp - $318 weekly
- Amenities include:
- Full hookup sites
- 65 ft maximum length
- Shuttle transportation
- Flush toilet and shower facilities
- Free wifi and cable tv
- Pets allowed
- Laundry
- General store
- Fire pits and wood
- Breakfast included
2. North Rim Campground
Google Reviews: 279 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7/5
- Phone: (877) 444-6777
- Location: North Rim, AZ 86052
- Price:
- $18 / night - standard nonelectric
- Amenities include:
- 71 RV sites
- 15 - 40 ft maximum length
- A campfire ring, cooking grate, and picnic table
- Flush toilet facilities
- Drinking water spigots
- Convenience store
- Dump station
- Pets allowed
- Showers closed due to Covid-19
- Grand Canyon Lodge is providing take away food services
3. Desert View Campground
Google Reviews: 171 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7/5
- Phone: (877) 444-6777
- Location: Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023
- Price:
- $18 / night - standard nonelectric
- Amenities include:
- 50 RV sites
- 30 ft maximum length
- A campfire ring, cooking grate, and picnic table
- Flush toilet facilities
- Drinking water spigots
- No dump station
- No hookups
- Pull-through sites
- Less than ½ mile from the canyon
- Colorado River access
- Greenway access leading to scenic overlooks and Visitor Center
- Pets allowed
4. Mather Campground
Google Reviews: 870 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6/5
- Phone: (928) 638-7888
- Location: 1 Mather Campground Rd, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023
- Price:
- $18 / night - standard nonelectric
- $25 / night - equestrian nonelectric
- Amenities include:
- 100 RV sites
- A campfire ring, cooking grate, and picnic table
- Flush toilet facilities
- Drinking water spigots
- Dump station
- No hookups
- Pull-through sites
- One mile from the canyon
- Pets allowed
- Greenway access leading to scenic overlooks and Visitor Center
- Showers, laundromat, and general store closed due to Covid-19
5. Grand Canyon Railway RV Park
Google Reviews: 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6/5
- Phone: (435) 359-2299
- Location: 601 W. Franklin Ave., Williams, AZ 86046
- Price:
- Pull through for 6 or nights or less - $60 / night
- Pull through for 7 nights or more - $48 / night
- Back in site for 6 nights or less - $54 / night
- Back in site for 7 nights or more - $43 / night
- Amenities include:
- Full hookup sites
- 30/50 amp power
- HDTV from DirecTV
- Free wifi access
- Laundry
- Restrooms and showers
- Pet resort
- Onsite laundry facilities
- Hiking and ATV trail access
5 Activities You Can't Miss At Grand Canyon National Park
Beholding the grandeur of Grand Canyon National Park is like being on the set of a movie where the disillusionment of "behind the scenes" is nowhere to be found.
From the otherworldly red waves of Navajo sandstone to the dramatic canyon carvings of the Colorado River, the Grand Canyon is almost ethereal in its appearance and mighty scope. Look too long, and you may start to believe you've reached a different planet.
It takes no time for visitors to discover why the Grand Canyon is a true gem among the national park system.
Planning Your Visit
Though quantifying this impactful place's "best" highlights would be impossible, read on for our top 5 activities you won't want to miss in Grand Canyon National Park! From family tours to endless hiking trails, the Grand Canyon promises road trip experiences you won't soon forget.
Before You Visit:
Grand Canyon National Park requires an entrance for those wishing to visit. Park permits allow access to the Grand Canyon for up to seven consecutive days and can be obtained at the park's entrance:
- Private vehicle: $35
- Motorcycle: $30
- On foot or bicycle: $20 (under 15 years of age is free of charge)
1. Hike The Trail Of Time
The Grand Canyon has been named one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World for a reason. That reason can be discovered as soon as you experience the Grand Canyon on foot.
It can be argued that the Trail of Time is one of the most enriching hikes a visitor can take when visiting the park, both for its breathtaking canyon views as well as the historic story it tells of this part of the United States.
Starting at the Yavapai Geology Museum, this 1.3 mile walk takes you backward in time to experience the human and the geological history of the area. Complete with samples for all of the different rock layers that make up the canyon walls, this walk through time is one of the most enriching recreational areas in the park.
Pro Tip: One of the most interesting facts about the Grand Canyon is that it is large and expansive enough to create its own weather! The temperature you experience before setting off on your hike can be vastly different than when you get to the end of it, so remember to pack comfortable layers and plenty of water.
2. Take A World Famous Mule Tour
The equine of choice for navigating the sheer descents of the Grand Canyon has long been the mule. Their size, sure-footedness, and strength are ideal for traversing the dramatic landscape of this beautiful place, and mule rides are now an integral part of the Grand Canyon experience.
If you think the view from the canyon rim takes your breath away, just wait until you see it from within! These mounted tours take you down the winding paths into the belly of the canyon, granting you access to a panoramic experience.
These tours allow you to book up to 15 months in advance and fill up quickly, so make sure you plan ahead!
3. Experience A River Rafting Tour
Experience the Grand Canyon from a completely different perspective. Several local companies offer thrilling river rafting tours that whisk you down the deep corridors of the canyon, revealing stunning views around every corner.
River rafting tours for all skill levels can be found, from adventurous multi-day whitewater rafting to relaxing motorized tours. Explore the links below and discover the rafting tour that's right for you!
Why choose between visiting North Rim or South Rim when you can float between the two?
Recommended Rafting Companies:
- Glen Canyon Float Trips
- Hualapai River Runners
- O.A.R.S
- Canyon Explorations/Expeditions
- Outdoors Unlimited
- Wilderness River Adventures
4. Enjoy The Perfect Aerial View
The Grand Canyon Skywalk is perhaps one of the most iconic destinations when visiting the Grand Canyon. This semi-circular bridge with a transparent glass floor provides a truly unique vantage point that cannot be missed.
Travelers should note that the distance to reach the Grand Canyon Skywalks is an approximate four hour drive from Grand Canyon Village, making this destination a potential all day endeavor.
The Grand Canyon Skywalk lies just outside of Hualapai Indian Tribe land and costs $82.37 for adults to access and $62.09 for children.
Despite the distance and the price, this location has drawn thousands of visitors since opening its doors in 2007. Being able to look down into the canyon depths from 4,000 feet up and 70 feet over the canyon edge is a once in a lifetime experience.
5. Refresh With A Bite At El Tovar
El Tovar Dining Room is the ideal destination for those who are looking to revitalize after a long day of experiences and exploration. Gourmet dining in an atmosphere of historic and casual elegance describes this world-class dining experience.
El Tovar dining room is Green Restaurant Certified and offers elegantly crafted dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Explore the links below to take a look at their mouth watering menu options!
Menu Options:
Ready to Start Your Grand Canyon Adventure?
Whether you're planning a week-long exploration or a quick weekend getaway, Grand Canyon National Park offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. From the comfort of your rental RV, you'll have the freedom to explore at your own pace while enjoying all the comforts of home.
Ready to book your Grand Canyon road trip? Contact Happy Campers RV Rentals today to reserve your perfect RV and start planning the adventure of a lifetime. Our team is here to help you choose the right vehicle and answer any questions about your journey.
The open road is calling—let's get you there!
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