Dispersed Camping at the Grand Canyon: Insider’s Guide
- Cara Kerouac
- May 18, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 5
If you're heading to the Grand Canyon and want to camp for free, dispersed camping is the way to go! In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the best spots for boondocking around the Grand Canyon, complete with insider tips and recommendations. (Listen here for more detailed information)
Fire Service Road 688
One of the most popular dispersed camping areas, Fire Service Road (FSR) 688, is located off Highway 64 before reaching the town of Tusayan. This road has multiple pull-offs and clearings that can accommodate everything from tents to RVs. The further in you go, the more secluded the sites become. If you’re looking for privacy, head a few miles in, where the crowds thin out.
Why We Love It:
Easy access from Highway 64
Plenty of spots for different camping setups
Secluded sites available further down the road
Heads Up:
The first few miles can be busy, so drive further for more privacy.
FSR 302 & The Puppy Spot
FSR 302 is another fantastic option for dispersed camping. This road winds through beautiful Ponderosa pines, and there are several camping areas along the way. If you keep going, you’ll reach an intersection—heading straight leads to some mounds of dirt that surround what locals call “tanks,” or man-made watering holes for free-ranging cows, elk, and deer.
Why We Love It:
Beautiful Ponderosa pine forest
Great wildlife viewing (elk, mule deer, and free-ranging cattle)
A watering hole perfect for dogs to cool off in the summer (hence, "The Puppy Spot")
Heads Up:
Future housing developments may impact some areas.
Insider Tip: FSR 302 connects to FSR 310, which can be used as a back route into Grand Canyon National Park—an excellent way to avoid long entrance lines during peak season!
FSR 328: Close to the Action
Located just a mile from the Grand Canyon National Park entrance, FSR 328 is a well-known camping area. However, due to its popularity, it can be noisy and crowded, especially in the summer and during spring break.
Why We Love It:
Extremely close to the national park entrance
Beautiful mix of junipers, pinyon pines, ponderosa, and gamble oak
Great for short stays if you arrive in the off-season
Heads Up:
High traffic from ATVs, horseback tours, and safari vehicles
Limited privacy and frequent noise
Can be closed due to snow or mud—always check the weather before heading out!
Tusayan: Where to Eat & Stock Up
Beyond FSR 302, you’ll enter the small town of Tusayan, which offers hotels, General Store, fast food, and a few sit-down restaurants. Everything here is expensive due to its proximity to the Grand Canyon.
Our Favorite Spot:
Plaza Bonita: If you love Mexican food, this is a must-visit! Try their organic margaritas—they’re amazing.
Insider Tip:
Surprisingly, eating inside the national park is often cheaper than in Tusayan due to lower taxes.
FSR 310: Camping Just Outside the Grand Canyon
If you enter the Grand Canyon National Park and drive along East Rim Drive (Highway 64), you’ll find FSR 310. This dispersed camping area is about 12 miles from the East Entrance Gate and provides incredible access to the park.
Why We Love It:
Close to the Grandview Overlook, perfect for sunrise and sunset views
Secluded spots are great for larger rigs
Near the Grandview Lookout Tower and the Arizona Trail
Insider Tip:
The Grandview Lookout Tower offers stunning panoramic views, making it worth the climb!
If the first campsite is full, continue down the road for more options.
Final Thoughts
We hope this guide helps you find the perfect dispersed camping spot for your Grand Canyon adventure! If you have any questions, feel free to email us, comment below, or connect with us on Facebook. We love sharing our knowledge and helping fellow campers.
Be sure to check out our next episode and post about the Red Butte Hike, another hidden gem near the Grand Canyon!
Happy camping, and see you on the road with Kerouacs Cruising!
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