- Pine Cliff Resort
- Campgrounds & RV Parks
- Arizona
- Coconino County
- Campgrounds & RV Parks in North Kaibab Trail
- Cottonwood Campground
Cottonwood Campground Introduce
Cottonwood Campground, located along the North Kaibab Trail in the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. Situated in the heart of one of the world's most iconic natural wonders, this campground offers a truly special experience for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Whether you're an avid hiker or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Cottonwood Campground provides the perfect setting for your adventure.
The campground is an ideal halfway point between the North Rim and Phantom Ranch, making it a popular stop for hikers tackling the Grand Canyon's challenging trails. The environment is serene, with towering canyon walls surrounding you and the soothing sounds of nearby Bright Angel Creek. While the hike back up to the North Rim is steep and intense, the reward is the unparalleled beauty of the Grand Canyon.
One of the standout features of Cottonwood Campground is its exceptionally clean and well-maintained backcountry bathrooms. Visitors have praised the spotless pit toilets, which are free of odor and graffiti—a rare find in remote camping locations. The campground also offers a few shaded spots, providing a welcome respite from the sun during warmer months.
Visitors should come prepared with ample water, as the drinking water taps along the trail may sometimes be turned off. A water treatment system is also recommended for drawing water from the creek. Starting your hike early in the day is essential to avoid the intense summer heat.
Customer feedback highlights the unique and memorable experience of staying at Cottonwood Campground. One reviewer described it as "a really special experience, sleeping under the stars with the walls of the Grand Canyon around you." Another praised the "spotless bathrooms," calling them the best they've encountered in any backcountry location. These positive reviews underscore the campground's commitment to providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
For those seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure, Cottonwood Campground is a must-visit destination. Its combination of natural beauty, clean facilities, and proximity to the Grand Canyon's most iconic trails makes it a favorite among hikers and campers alike. Plan your trip today and experience the magic of the Grand Canyon at Cottonwood Campground.
Location
ArizonaCoconino CountyNorth Kaibab Trail
Customer Reviews
A really special experience. Sleeping under the stars with the walls of the Grand Canyon around you. Be aware that the drinking water taps along the trail are sometimes turned off meaning you have to bring lots of water as well as a water treatment systems for water from the creek. The hike back up to the north rim is steep and intense, even for very experienced hikers - definitely start well before sunrise to avoid the severe heat in summer.
Great half-way spot between the north rim and phantom ranch. A few spots with shade. Best part is the spotless bathrooms. I've never seen such clean and well-maintained backcountry bathrooms. Pit toilets, but no smell and no graffiti. Nicely done NPS. Stayed there October 10, 2023.
They tell you to bring backup water purification for a reason! I had iodine tablets that came in handy once the pipeline broke, but some people ignored the messages and were stuck without a filter or purification. Do your diligence when planning your trek. It's a great spot to camp, right next to the creek. Toilets are clean. Some campsites had some shade, others were pretty wide-open for sun. There are 11 sites total so it stayed pretty quiet. Did South Kaibab trailhead to Cottonwood Day 1, up to North Rim and back Day 2, and Cottonwood to Bright Angel trailhead Day 3, which was perfect for our pace.
I was there in March and it was wonderful. It wasn't too crowded, but even if it had been full I think it would have been ok since the camp sites are further apart than the other main corridor campgrounds. There are a few trees for shade. Running water is only available seasonally, but Bright Angel Creek is nearby if you do need to filter. There are composting toilets. This is a great little campground for such a busy trail.
Very nice campground. I stayed Jan 29, 2020. I was the only camper and actually I never saw another person past Phantom Ranch. Great stargazing and it was kind of nice to have the grounds to myself. The faucets were still off which is disappointing as the campground is open. The restrooms were very clean and tent sites were clear of debris. Instead of using the faucets I just gathered water from the nearby creek.
More Places to Explore Nearby
North Rim Campground
568 Campground Rd, North Rim, AZ 86052, USA
Phantom Ranch
N Kaibab Trail, North Rim, AZ 86052, USA
Bright Angel Campground
N Kaibab Trail, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023, USA
Havasupai Gardens Campground
Bright Angel Trail, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023, USA
Grand Canyon Visitor Center
S Entrance Rd, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023, USA
Yavapai Lodge
11 Yavapai Lodge Rd, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023, USA