Hi,
While you can not camp outside a campground in Grand Canyon National Park, you can camp for free in any of the Grand Canyon National Forest! Talk to any of the Rangers, they might have a favorite place to camp in. And they can give out a free fire permit, if you plan on using a BBQ outside. I don't think open fires will be OK this time of year.
I camped near a lake in the north rim area for a week - the end of September, and weather was perfect! I was able to light a campfire in a existing fire ring, the Rangers stopped by while I was out sightseeing and talked with my wife about fires and gave her a permit. It was road 212, and about 12 miles south of Jacob Lake turnoff on highway 67.
We did spend one night in the campground at North Rim. You must have reservations, so we got some while out sightseeing, and then went back to our meadow for a couple of days until they had a open spot. We also got dinner reservations at the lodge, and the overlook is wonderful. WE had 4 pm reservations, so we could pick any seat in the house! Some overnight guests can not get a reservation for dinner, and there is no other diners for miles around! They came by bus, and would need to eat donuts from the snack bar or something without a reservation!
Have a great time! Summer at the north rim (7,500') and Bryce (8,000 - 9,450') is much more comfortable than the south rim (6,500' elevation). They tend to get feet of snow in October or November, and close highway 67 for the winter. It normally opens in May. I really want to get back there and spend another summer there!
Have a great trip!
Fred.
