Anyone planning on camping below the rim must first obtain a backcountry permit. This permit should be obtained as far in advance as possible. Requests can be faxed to 928-638-2125. Requests are not accepted by telephone. Allow 3-6 weeks for your request to be processed.

There is $20 permit charge plus $4.00 per person, per night. There is a waiting list for cancellations. You can turn up at the backcountry office, which is located in the Maswik Transportation Center, from 8AM - noon and  1PM - 5PM daily to check for cancellations. To have a permit request form mailed to you call 1-928-638-7888. Permit requests can be mailed to:

Back Country Office
Grand Canyon National Park
PO Box 129
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023 USA
  

Backcountry permits are not required for camping on the rim. You must, however, camp in designated campsites only. The number of sites is limited and they fill up quickly during the prime tourist season (June through August). Some of the campgrounds require reservations in advance and others operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. For detailed information on campgrounds: