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Grand Canyon/Desert View
Overview
Desert View Campground offers a peaceful alternative to the busier hubs of the Grand Canyon South Rim. Located near the park’s eastern edge, this seasonal facility emphasizes a rustic camping experience that honors the quiet beauty of the high desert. Unlike the more commercialized areas of the park, visitors here can enjoy a slower pace while remaining within walking distance of breathtaking canyon vistas and scenic heritage sites. It is a place where the grandeur of the landscape takes center stage over modern development.
Location & Surroundings
Situated at the East Entrance of Grand Canyon National Park, the park sits at an elevation of roughly 7,400 feet. The landscape is dominated by pinyon-juniper woodlands, providing modest shade and a sense of seclusion from the main tourist corridors. Its location along Desert View Drive allows for easy access to numerous scenic pullouts that offer unique perspectives of the Colorado River winding through the canyon floor far below, framed by the Painted Desert in the distance.
Amenities & Park Features
As a traditional national park facility, the sites are dry camping only, meaning there are no electric, water, or sewer hookups available for visitors. RVers must plan for a maximum vehicle length of 30 feet, making it ideal for smaller rigs and camper vans. The park provides essential comforts including vault toilets and seasonal potable water stations, though travelers should arrive with full fresh water tanks. Each site features a sturdy picnic table and a fire ring for evening relaxation under some of the darkest skies in the Southwest.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The centerpiece of the area is the Desert View Watchtower, a historic structure designed by Mary Colter that offers panoramic views and indigenous-inspired architecture. Guests can explore the Tusayan Ruin and Museum to learn about ancestral Puebloan history or hike portions of the various rim trails that snake along the canyon edge. This location is also world-renowned for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the dramatic lighting of sunrise over the canyon’s eastern reaches, which is often less crowded than Mather Point.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is perfect for self-contained RV travelers who prioritize tranquility and natural immersion over resort-style luxuries. It appeals to those seeking a smaller, more intimate campground atmosphere compared to the large-scale operations found in Grand Canyon Village. If you enjoy stargazing, historical architecture, and the freedom of a more remote setting, Desert View provides the quintessential Grand Canyon experience for those who want to feel truly connected to the wilderness.
Amenities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Betty H
Speechless! The views are absolutely gorgeous. It was chilly enough to keep our jackets on during our early March trip. My only regret? Not bringing binoculars. There is lots to do in the South Rim, from hiking, camping, and biking to mule trips and dining. We drove in from Tusayan and paid a $35 vehicle entry fee (good for 7 days, so keep your receipt for re-entry), and while parking inside is free, it’s a gamble during peak hours. The park is very dog-friendly, but keep a sharp eye out for elks. We spotted several near the Watchtower and on the streets, so we made sure to keep our pup at a distance. Truly a bucket-list experience!
Some Guy
Just wow. The scale is unimaginable until you see it in person... and even then it's still hard to fathom. Rangers and staff are super helpful with lots of information and tips to share. Definitely go into the canyon, even if it's only for a mile.
Christopher Roman
Mind blowing visas plus exhausting yet rewarding hikes down into the canyon make this place a must visit! Completely exceeded my expectations. Don't miss Yavapai Point and South Kaibab Trail. Keep in mind the hikes down into the canyon are HARD on the way back up, so be prepared ESPECIALLY if it's hot. Plan your sunsets and sunrises since that's when the views are next level! Can't go wrong with Mojave Point or Hopi Point at sunset.
Nal
Photos don’t do justice to this place. Do visit the South Rim at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center near the canyon village for breathtaking views. Mather point is good for sunrise. If you plan to go on a hike, bring food and water as there are no restaurants at the visitor center except for a cafe at the bike rental center. Visit the geology museum. It’s nice and is at a walkable distance. I visited in Jan. Mornings are cold but it gets better during the day so carry light jacket. Entry fee is $35 and can be purchased online. There are shuttles available every 15 minutes from visitor center to different view points. There is plenty of parking space at the visitor center.
Lucy Wu
Grand Canyon was amazing!!! I have wanted to visit Grand Canyon for so long, and we finally did this summer!!! Absolutely gorgeous, and the view is just stunning 🤩!! The weather was also great, with the sun out while staying dry. We stayed for 3 days, and the cabins were also beautiful, with the view just looking towards Grand Canyon. It was wonderful to be able to see the view that I only used to see in textbooks. Everyone should definitely visit here when they’re in Arizona!