We will be visiting Grand Canyon and would like to stay in a place that doesn't have RV's stacked on top of one another. We love staying at state parks but are not that familiar with the area. Anyone have any suggestions? It's for April 12-19. Thanks in advance!

How far away from the Canyon do you want to be? What is the size of your rig? What amenities are you looking for? South rim or North rim? East side or West side?1. About an hours drive to the Grand Canyon, South Rim you'll find Bonito Campground near Flagstaff. Not many amenities but a clean campground with nice facilities. They have water but no sewer. 2. There are two campgrounds at the South Rim Village....trailer village, which is what you're trying to avoid and Mather Campground. Mather is better suited to your tastes but is limited in space. It offers no hookups.Answering the above posted questions will offer more suggestions....Dennis

To visit the South Rim of the Grand Canyon the best place to stay with hookups is Trailer Village IN the park. The free shuttle stops at the RV park and you can ride all day long getting on and off. The sites are fairly close to each other but then, you're there to tour not to sit in the campsite.If you don't need hookups and you have a smaller RV, then Mather campground IN the park is very nice and more spacious sites.Staying outside the part is a real hassle to drive in each day as parking is limited.As mentioned above, Bonito national forest campground at the gate to Sunset Crater Nat'l Mon. is a beauty. However, they don't accept reservations so you need to get there by 1pm at least. It does not have a trailer water fill and does not have a dump station. It does have flush toilets but no showers. To me, it's a long drive to visit Grand Canyon but is convenient for things around Flagstaff.Williams is another town that some folks stay but again, it's a 50-mile stretch of open land to the Canyon. It has multiple RV parks and further away are some forest service campgrounds.Stay IN the park for the most relaxing experience!

Like I said, not familiar with the area, but to clarify, not more than 50 miles from the canyon, we have a 37 foot motor home, need full hook-ups including sewer if possible. South rim, and as far as either east or west side, doesn't matter. Still researching but apprecite friendly input!

Grand Canyon Railway RV Park in Williams is run by Xantera, one of the largest Natl Park concessionaires. It offers pull thru sites, water, sewer and 30/50 amp service (cable tv too) It's prefect if you have a toad.

kellygirl6767 wrote:Like I said, not familiar with the area, but to clarify, not more than 50 miles from the canyon, we have a 37 foot motor home, need full hook-ups including sewer if possible. South rim, and as far as either east or west side, doesn't matter. Still researching but apprecite friendly input!Thanks for the updated information. That given, your choices become much more limited. Over 5 million people visit the Grand Canyon every year, so there are only a limited number of camping opportunities. As a result of this huge number, the campsites are somewhat crowded. Most people see this venue as a viewing experience and not a typical "camping" experience. As a result, the campsites are closer together and facilities are limited. That said, I believe your best bet, given your time constraints, is to try to book into Trailer Village. Once settled, you will not need any transportation. There is a very efficient bus system that is provided FREE for getting around the village and outlying areas. Please refer to the link provided below. While the spaces are not spacious by any means, they will provide you with adequate spacing to enjoy your stay. Be prepared, though, they provide you with a camping space, not a camping experience with big trees, fire pits etc. You will, however, enjoy your stay. Two caveats: The elk/moose will visit the campground so don't be alarmed. They're friendly. Secondly, do NOT put out your sewer hose unless you are using it. The ravens/crows will peck holes in it if you leave it out. If you use your imagination, you can get a picture of what happens when you pull the handle on the black tank...:EStaying at Trailer Village will provide you with the most satisfying experience when visiting the GC. You're already within that park so the hassle of arriving at the gate each day is eliminated. The shuttle system is one of the most efficient we've experienced. Plan on taking sufficient water with you each day. Buying it from the concessionaire is expensive. Also, pack a lunch when you go. Nothing is more enjoyable than having a picnic while sitting on the rim overlooking the canyon...Hope this helps...DennisGrand Canyon Village Shuttle Service

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timandsusan
Explorer
Apr 09, 2015
If possible, take a helicopter ride over the southern part of the canyon! They usually provide a DVD of your trip with what you said when the shoot over the canyon from the forest lands!
mileshuff
Explorer
Apr 09, 2015
4runnerguy wrote:
The shuttle system serves the CG area and you can take it to see various places rather than driving everywhere and trying to find parking.

The last few visits I've opted to go in the off season. It is really nice to drive along the rim, plenty of parking, no waiting in shuttle lines etc. Enjoying the views without crowds is great. Really love it in the winter when you can drive along the western drive (blocked off to cars rest of year). Canyon draped in snow is an awesome sight!
fireman93514
Explorer
Apr 08, 2015
4runnerguy wrote:
Lauren wrote:
Trust me on this - been there many times and know the area well - you want to be at Trailer Village. You do NOT want to be in Williams as it is - like has been said - 50 miles away of nothing to see drive and then you have the hassle of getting thru the gate and hopefully finding parking. If you truly want to SEE the G C you need to be there when you can witness sunrises and sunsets and have tram transportation right from your rv area.

x3

The shuttle system serves the CG area and you can take it to see various places rather than driving everywhere and trying to find parking.

100% correct.
Lauren
Explorer
Apr 08, 2015
And about a half day in Williams is plenty. :-)

But let's not digress from the topic.

You do not SEE the Grand Canyon going to the Rim for a few hours centered at the one spot.
mileshuff
Explorer
Apr 08, 2015
Lauren wrote:
He said he was going to the Grand Canyon.

If you want to see Williams, go to Williams. But don't go to Williams if you want to see the Grand Canyon!

Very true. I'm a bit different. When I travel to an area I want to see all there is in the area because in many cases I won't be back to that area for quite some time. Really depends on how much time one wishes to spend at the canyon itself. Especially if you love hiking you'll want more. For me, 1 full day is plenty.
Lauren
Explorer
Apr 08, 2015
He said he was going to the Grand Canyon.

If you want to see Williams, go to Williams. But don't go to Williams if you want to see the Grand Canyon!
mileshuff
Explorer
Apr 08, 2015
Lauren wrote:
Trust me on this - been there many times and know the area well - you want to be at Trailer Village. You do NOT want to be in Williams as it is - like has been said - 50 miles away of nothing to see drive and then you have the hassle of getting thru the gate and hopefully finding parking. If you truly want to SEE the G C you need to be there when you can witness sunrises and sunsets and have tram transportation right from your rv area.

True if you wish to stay only at the Canyon for several days. Great for many but not for all. After being at the canyon dozens of times over the years we now stay in Williams and love it. We spend a day at the canyon and the rest around Williams. TONS to see and do around the area. Just depends on the vacation you're wanting.
4runnerguy
Explorer
Apr 07, 2015
Lauren wrote:
Trust me on this - been there many times and know the area well - you want to be at Trailer Village. You do NOT want to be in Williams as it is - like has been said - 50 miles away of nothing to see drive and then you have the hassle of getting thru the gate and hopefully finding parking. If you truly want to SEE the G C you need to be there when you can witness sunrises and sunsets and have tram transportation right from your rv area.

x3

The shuttle system serves the CG area and you can take it to see various places rather than driving everywhere and trying to find parking.
djsamuel
Nomad
Apr 07, 2015
Lauren wrote:
Trust me on this - been there many times and know the area well - you want to be at Trailer Village. You do NOT want to be in Williams as it is - like has been said - 50 miles away of nothing to see drive and then you have the hassle of getting thru the gate and hopefully finding parking. If you truly want to SEE the G C you need to be there when you can witness sunrises and sunsets and have tram transportation right from your rv area.

Absolutely agree.
Lauren
Explorer
Apr 07, 2015
Trust me on this - been there many times and know the area well - you want to be at Trailer Village. You do NOT want to be in Williams as it is - like has been said - 50 miles away of nothing to see drive and then you have the hassle of getting thru the gate and hopefully finding parking. If you truly want to SEE the G C you need to be there when you can witness sunrises and sunsets and have tram transportation right from your rv area.

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