So, let me tell you a little story about my first time visiting the Grand Canyon. I had rented an RV, thinking it would be the ultimate way to road trip and experience the beauty of the canyon.
But little did I know, the RV park at the South Rim is tiny and full all the time. So, I ended up having to park my RV in a dirt lot about 5 miles away from the rim. Talk about a bummer, right?
But, that’s not the end of the story. After a long day of hiking and sightseeing, I finally made my way back to my RV, ready to cook up some dinner and hit the hay.
But, as I was pulling out of the dirt lot, I realized I had a flat tire. And, to make matters worse, I didn’t have a spare.
So there I was, stranded in the middle of nowhere, with no phone service and no way to contact anyone for help. I ended up having to hike the 5 miles back to the rim and spend the night in a tent.
But, even with all the mishaps, I still had an incredible time at the Grand Canyon and I would do it all over again in a heartbeat.
So, the question still remains, can you drive an RV to the Grand Canyon? The short answer is yes, but be prepared for some potential hiccups along the way.
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Where to Park Your RV at the Grand Canyon
If you’re planning on visiting the South Rim, there are a few RV parks to choose from. The Trailer Village RV Park is the only park within the park that can accommodate RVs up to 50 feet long.
However, it’s also the most expensive and fills up quickly, so make sure to book well in advance.
Another option is the Mather Campground, which is located just outside the park boundaries. This campground can accommodate RVs up to 30 feet long, but there are no hookups available. So, if you’re looking for a more rustic experience, this might be the spot for you.
Lastly, if you’re visiting the North Rim, the only option for RV camping is the DeMotte Campground. This campground can accommodate RVs up to 25 feet long and has no hookups available.
Tips for RVing at the Grand Canyon
- Book your RV spot well in advance. Spots fill up quickly, especially in the peak tourist season.
- Be prepared for long drives on winding, narrow roads. Take it slow and enjoy the views.
- Check the weather forecast before you go. Summer temperatures can reach over 100 degrees and winter can be harsh.
- Check the restrictions of the RV park you plan on staying at. Some have strict length limits and no hookups available.
My Personal Experience
So, even though my first RV trip to the Grand Canyon didn’t go as planned, I still had an amazing time.
I learned a lot about how to prepare for an RV trip and what to expect at the Grand Canyon.
It just goes to show that sometimes the best memories are made from the unexpected mishaps.
One tip I would highly recommend is making sure you have a spare tire and a jack before hitting the road.
Also, bring a portable air compressor or a can of fix-a-flat just in case. Trust me, you don’t want to be stranded on the side of the road like I was.
Another tip is to be flexible with your plans. The RV parks at the Grand Canyon fill up fast, so be open to alternative camping options such as the Mather Campground or the DeMotte Campground. These options may not have hookups, but the views and experiences are worth it.
FAQ
What are the RV size restrictions at the Grand Canyon?
The Trailer Village RV Park at the South Rim can accommodate RVs up to 50 feet long. The Mather Campground and the DeMotte Campground can accommodate RVs up to 30 feet and 25 feet, respectively.
Are there hookups available at the RV parks at the Grand Canyon?
The Trailer Village RV Park has hookups available, but the Mather Campground and the DeMotte Campground do not.
Can I bring my dog to the Grand Canyon?
Yes, leashed dogs are allowed on the South Rim, but they are not allowed on the trails or below the rim. On the North Rim, dogs are not allowed on the trails or below the rim.
My Conclusion…
Driving an RV to the Grand Canyon can be a fun and unique way to experience the park, but it’s important to be prepared for potential hiccups along the way.
Make sure to book your RV spot well in advance, bring a spare tire, and be open to alternative camping options.
And, most importantly, remember to have fun and make memories. Even if things don’t go as planned, it’s all part of the adventure.